Agility classes

Thank you for your interest in our Dog Agility Classes. The following information you will need to know prior to joining our classes. You should have been advised a class day and time however if this is not suitable for you please speak to your instructor.

Method

The type of training that will be used in the classes is positive reinforcement. If a dog finds something rewarding, it is more likely to repeat it. At one time, there were only conventional/compulsive types of training methods which generally worked by dominating the dog into doing what the owner wanted. As times have moved on, we have found that with positive reinforcement, we can actually give our dog a choice. Our job is to convince him that if he makes the right choice, he will be rewarded! It’s as simple as that! This clearly gives a better relationship than before with our dogs.

Worming and vaccination

Please make sure that your vaccination certificate is up to date and that your dog has been wormed. Please get worming medication from your vet. Although more expensive than in the shops it is more effective. It is also a advisable to have an up to
date kennel cough vaccination to ensure you dog will remain in the peak of health.

Equipment

Choke chains, (check chains) are not allowed during the agility classes. Recent studies have shown that not only can they
damage the dogs neck, but they also cause physiological problems and aggression in some dogs.

Please use a broad flat collar, together with a reasonably long lead. (3-4ft long)

Treats

From now until the next class please find out what really motivates your dog. The best option is a treat, or could be a favourite
toy. Fresh chicken, cheese, sausages or liver usually work very well and although sound extravagant, usually cost less than commercial treats. (Only a very tiny piece of food is used and the tit-bits need be no larger than 1/2 cm square) Only use these ‘special rewards’ for training.

Toys

We use a variety of methods to motivate your dog in the classes. If your dog is not particularly treat orientated then being along his/her favourite toy to play with and use than as a reward instead. Fleece tuggy toys are great for agility – available from the club shop.

Feeding your dog

Bear in mind that we want your dog to work well for the treats you use in class, so if he has just had lunch/super, he’s not going
’t feed him within 3-4 hours prior to the class. On a full stomach the dog will not be very comfortable running round and there is
also the chance that a full stomach can twist – which we definitely don’t want!

Useful hints

• When you arrive please park sensibly on the car park as other cars may need to leave before you.
• You must enter the AGILITY ARENA at the small door at the opposite end of the building to the parking which is
  signposted ENTRANCE.
• Your dog then has time to relieve himself before entering the classes but any mess must be removed.
• Allow you dog a short walk or some exercise before arriving at the class to let off some steam and release some
  excess energy!
• Please arrive on time for your classes. There is a lot of setting up to be done and a lot to get through!
• DO NOT use any equipment with out instructor supervision, this is dangerous and there is plenty of time in the classes
  for your turn.
• A calm and confident attitude will help your dog to settle into the class easier, by walking around the equipment and
  allowing your dog to get used to the new surroundings will help promote calm behaviour.
• Please listen to the instructors, not just to learn lots but for your own and your dogs safety.

DON’T FORGET to complete the registration form enclosed and bring with you to the first agility class.

And finally…… Please note this is a working farm and consideration should be given to the other people on the farm not
attending the agility classes. Therefore, dogs must be kept on a lead at ALL times and ALL dog mess must be removed immediately and put in the ‘pooh bin.’