Dances With Dogs

– Katelyn Hirst I was first introduced to Dances with Dogs (DWD) as a little girl watching the local dog training school (VIP Training with Maree Field) performing with their demo team at the local community fair. At age sixteen, I joined their training school with my shy rescue dog Mable, and quickly grew to love all aspects of dog sports, including Obedience, DWD and Trick Dog to name a few. I added my young Border Collie, Scout to training in late 2019 as a little puppy. I quickly learned that there is so much more to DWD than merely performing complex tricks in sequences to music. Indeed, it goes beyond dressing up in eyecatching costumes, showcasing your dog’s most impressive moves in time with the music, all while reflecting the underlying themes of the song. It’s more than achieving a qualifying score to earn a title. The real value I gain from DWD is teaching, developing and enhancing my dogs’ skills, which are all relevant to everyday life. It is building the foundations for a confident dog, where no matter the environment or intensity of distractions they can thrive. It’s also about encouraging my dog to be a team player and learning that even when things don’t go as planned, it’s okay. DWD is one of the most rewarding sports to compete in. It’s challenging and takes lots of training and preparation to get into the ring. This makes a qualification even more special. I love this sport as it’s one of the only sports that any dog and his human can do, not restricted by breed, nor disability. Better yet you can tailor it to suit your own strengths and abilities as well as the dogs, and incorporate all their favourite tricks to make it even more fun. Performing and training for DWD has no doubt enhanced my relationship and bond with my own dogs, and this is showcased when we compete. Mable has grown from an extremely timid dog, too scared to jump in a car, to a dog who loves even the most intense environment such as the Ekka. There is always support to be found in fellow competitors and judges, who are happy to offer advice to help everyone succeed.

DOGS QUEENSLAND LOVES DOG TALES

Members are invited to submit dog related stories of interest for inclusion in upcoming issues of our Dog World magazine. All canine topics are accepted whether they be unusual, quirky or factual and can include ‘paw-friendly’ walks and cafes, heart-warming tales or antics while in lockdown to name a few. Dogs Queensland would like to showcase your dog’s story to the wider canine community. To see your story published simply send it through tobarbara@dogsqueensland.org.au