It's a Wrap!

The final day of Power Paws Agility Camp.  Wah!  Alas, all good things must come to an end.  We all LEARNED SO MUCH.  My biggest takeaway was that I need to work on tightening turns.  Must have tighter turns!  I learned much more, but it was clear to me during each session that this piece is missing. I've been working on it for the last year, but clearly haven't been dedicated enough.  It will help in countless ways.

First session this morning:  Professor of Potions, Mia Grant.  The Long and Short of It.  And her trusty assistant, Rich.  'Often in magical agility courses a choice of direction is presented, a longer straighter line or a shorter line with more of a turn.  Understanding which is better for you and your teammate is a great way to save time on a course.'  Mia showed us how to look at several options, and how to choose your best.  I got all twisted up in my handling.  I gotta say though, her play and laughter made it fun.  And she imparted some great information.

Find your dog's best way, and even let your dog find its own way.  Have a good foundation, and sprinkle it with fancy (when foundation needs a boost).  Plus the importance of filming and timing.  Which I currently don't do.  And really need to do.

Rich waits for the action

Find Rich ...

Final session:  Professor Nancy 'Defence Against the Dark Arts' Gyes.  Alarte Ascendare!!  This class was all about discrimination.  Plus handling options.  Nancy always offers handling options on a course.  I was looking forward to this class.  I periodically take classes with Nancy at Power Paws, and always comes away with pearls aplenty.  Today was no exception, and Vixen spiced it up by learning how to tunnel suck.  GAH!!!  Prior to today, I don't recall ever having much trouble with her choosing the tunnel over the dogwalk.  It really was the best time for it to happen - I got some great pointers.  But dang!  I think we were all a little tired.  ;)

Nancy, Sue and the Scoopervisor

Hats off to all the instructors!  They were amazing on so many levels.  And a huge thank you to my new friend Rebecca.  She had her smart phone set up in a tripod ringside, and recorded most of my runs.  What a sweetheart!  I can't wait to find time to watch them.  I know there's plenty of face palm moments in there, but I will learn from them.

Helped pack up Camp and hit the road, via Starbucks and In 'n' Out, then Saratoga to pick up my Jemima on our way home.  I know she had a great time hanging with her brother Sunny.  It makes it easier to let go when I know she's in such good hands.  I was so glad to see her little wiggly blue self.  We're all home.  Vixen's sacked out in an open crate, and my Huckleberry is right here.

Hot shower.  Clean sheets.  Ibuprofen and heating pad.
All's right in my world.