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| Casino's Stellar Charm OA OAJ RS-N JS-O GS-N NAC OJC NGC CL3-R CL2-H CL2-S CL2-F CGC/TDI |
(Or "How I Learned to Stop Worrying and Love my Dog")
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| (reprinted here with Linda's Permission) |
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| Rule #1 in Agility is "Don't Get Mad At Your Dog!" Attitude is Everything, and that means your attitude as well as your dog's attitude. MOST of what happens on an Agility course is your responsibility, whether it be in training, preparation, timing, body position, preparation, communication, or attitude. |
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| Do you expect your dog to be more perfect than you are? Can you honestly say you have never had a lapse in memory? How many times have you pointed to the Dog Walk and said "A-Frame" or run towards the tire and said "TUNNEL!!!"? None of us are perfect and errors are bound to occur. But tomorrow is another day and an Agility Trial is not really the most important thing in the world. The sun will still rise the next day and you will still find your dog curled up on your bed with you! |
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| Remember the love and affection that your dogs can give you. Than is more important than all the ribbons, placements, and legs can ever be. If you can't go to a show and have fun running your dog and loving him for what he is, then maybe it's time for you to consider finding another hobby---- something that does not include dealing with such a trusting, affectionate and devoted animal. |
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| Titles can be wonderful goals. But the title is for the PERSON and his/her self-esteem. The dog has no idea if he has just qualified or not... all he knows is that he had a great time with his owner and life is good. The dog who has 6 legs towards his Master title will be no different when he gets that final 7th leg. He is the same companion to you with or without the title. When Teddy, my Sheltie, finished his MAD, I cried and everyone was hugging us... little Ted had no idea why his mom was acting so strange! |
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| Your goal should not be showing off to your peers. Fame is fleeting. Congratulations are over and done with before you're done packing up to go home. And yes, it sure feels good to have all your hard work in training pay off with a nice ribbon and a qualifying round. Putting it all together on a course is definitely a real high. But MOST important is your relationship with your dog. You did not invite your dog into your life just so you could win ribbons. Your goal should be more than just titles; your goal should be to enjoy every minute you are lucky enough to spend with your dogs and your friends. |
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| You and your dog are partners for life. Don't worry about what anyone else is thinking of you or saying about you. The only opinion of you that REALLY matters is your DOG'S opinion! |
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| Author's Note: I originally wrote this for a friend who was losing perspective. Truth be told, I need to read it for myself to keep MY perspective as well. |
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| * Linda Husson is the Training Director of Tri-State Dog Obedience Club. She and her dogs have enjoyed many years together, playing and competing in Dog Sports. |
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| Copyright © 2000 - 2005 by the author and AfterHours Australian Shepherds. No reproduction of any kind, of any of the material on this site, is permitted without the written permission of AfterHours Australian Shepherds, or in the case of previously published articles, the indicated author. |
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