A Day on the Green for K9s Karen Sturtevant
Argus was hoping to see more birdies.
I
magine a picturesque autumn day in Vermont. With rolling fog lifting to allow the sight of vibrant oranges, scarlets, and yellows, the sunshine warming the crisp air and drying of dew on the almost-dormant grass, I was privileged to experience such a day in September surrounded by canine-loving, law enforcement officials and enthusiasts.
12 4 Legs & a Tail
Sugarbush Resort Golf Club was the host to The Vermont Police Canine Association’s (VPCA) 14th Annual Canine Classic. The VPCA is a non-profit organization dedicated to providing financial assistance and training to police service dog (K9) teams in Vermont and New Hampshire. From leashes, collars, medical care to training, and custom-made bullet/stab-proof vests, the VPCA plays a major role in the success and safety of the K9 teams. On this particular morning, organizer Emily Leinhoff instructed volunteers and welcomed participants. Skillfully moving through the throes of people, Emily answered questions, checked registration status, and swiped credit cards as the air of excitement was palpable. Along with my little dog Chia, I shadowed Emily holding raffle tickets, awaiting instruction, and handing out mulligans. As a non-golfer, I was introduced to golf speak and learned a mulligan was an extra tee for a ‘do-over’ shot. Mulligans were quite popular that day. Over 90 players (both police officers and those of other professions) were assigned carts and holes in which to begin the day. As everyone zoomed to their beginning destination, Chia and I walked to our assignment: Hole 10. Our role for the day (other than bee-bopping around the course in the golf cart attempting to appear we knew what we were doing) was to stake and record the longest drive. A hammer-shaped sign with the caption, “You Hammered It!” was moved out five times that day. Impressive results for any group. Participants also vied for champion bragging rights for the shortest drive, closest drive to the pin, and corn hole board winner. Plaques were to be awarded to the top three teams for the lowest scores. As the sun rose higher, the whine of the cart motors continued. Teams of two and Winter 2021
