I am so excited, I've been dying to get my dog into an agility class at a local facility (the only real positive facility around). But for nearly four years (!!!) my work schedule or teaching schedule has conflicted with the agility schedule. I finally have something that will match up and we start Beginner Agility 1 tomorrow night!
I took a basic obedience course with Etta at this facility last year. She already did all of the behaviors, but she needed a new location and I needed time put aside to work with her. She was rather freaked out about the building. It is large (up to four classes going on at a time) and has a lot of echoes (our place is small and quiet), there had also been an advanced agility class going on and the teeter hitting the ground worried her (began stuffing treats in her mouth as soon as I saw anyone approach the teeter and she settled down). It seemed to take her about 15-20 minutes to calm down and take food there. I have decided that my goal is simply to focus on Etta. I know that sounds basic, but it is so easy to get swept away in the class, the exercises and the obstacles that you get blinders on as to how your dog is handling everything.
I read "Control Unleashed" by Leslie McDevitt last year and it has become my bible. It is coming with us, along with Etta's relaxation mat. I plan to get there early and settle her down before class starts. I will start with her on her mat, she knows that is her safe place. I'll move on to some massage and then begin moving her around a bit.
I am really looking forward to this and I hope Etta will enjoy herself, too!
