DOGS will be showing off their speed, flexibility and skill at the Milton Showground on Saturday during an agility and jumping competition.
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Being staged in conjunction with a championship dog show, the event kicks off at 9am as dogs are put to the agility test weaving through obstacles, running through tunnels and walking across planks.
A jumping competition will take place in the afternoon.
One of the Milton Show’s biggest events, the dog competitions are being run by Milton Ulladulla Dog Training Club members in their compound at the back of the showground.
There is a novice class for the not so experienced dogs, and excellent for the ones that have had experience, ensuring all competition is fair.
In the jumping also, dogs are called on to jump only the heights that are safe for them.
Obstacles in agility include jumps, weaving poles, elevated walk, scramble, tunnels, broad jumps and a seesaw.
In all there are 15 obstacles over a distance of 120 metres, but the fastest dogs will complete the course in less than 45 seconds.
In the jumping course the only obstacles and jumps and broad jumps, however weavers and tunnels can also be included, so be sure you do not blink and miss some of the spectacular action.
Dogs of all breeds enter in these events from Australian kelpies, rottweilers, papillons, Australian cattle dogs, border collies, toy poodles, Labradors, kelpies, Shetland sheepdogs, Staffordshire bull terriers, cavalier King Charles spaniels, rough collies and koolies, but the working dogs really seem to excel at the sport.
Agility and jumping is a great even for the dog and handler and both need to be fit.
The handlers also need to be able to think quickly on their feet as events have a tendency to unravel rapidly during the run.
The events rely on strong teamwork between dog and owner as they minimise mistakes while navigating the course set before them, at the same time having plenty of fun that is shared with the spectators.
If there is time there will even be a fun game to finish the day.
The event is one not to be missed, particularly for dog owners and animal lovers.
Members will also be on hand to provide information about the Milton Ulladulla Dog Training Club for anyone inspired by the day’s activities who would like to get in on the fun.