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Sharon Gakstatter

CPDT-KSA, WAG Certified Instructor

 

I started training with my first agility dog in 1996. Agility was a fast growing sport that had just taken hold in the local area. My first dog was a rescue from the local shelter. He had been taken from his previous owners at 4 months of age for  neglect and abuse. He was very sweet, cautious, and wanted to please. His initial obedience training went very smoothly. It wasn't until I started agility training that he really came out of his shell and boy did he shine. I realized that a special bond could be formed between a human and a dog by sharing time together that was beneficial to each.

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After I started my first dog so many years ago, there have been many more. Each dog learns differently and teaches me more about the human animal bond. After my first rescue dog, I have continued to adopt shelter dogs as my canine companions. Each comes with a different history and most we don't know much about. Agility has taught the cautious ones to be confident and the strong ones to be responsive. 

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Each of my dogs came with a different skill set and inherent instincts. I can't tell you exactly what breeds combined to make each of my canine agility partners. I have had dogs that were over 60 pounds to the littlest just over 15 pounds. Some with long, lean athletic builds and others with a more dense body. Each one loved this sport and the challenges it provided. Each one thrived on the competition aspect and the speed of the game. Each one makes me smile as I run them through the obstacles. Agility brings out the best in dogs and their human partners. Force Free training opens the door to a special bond and allows your dog the freedom to learn the game and love it.

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