So, after a very pleasant Thanksgiving at my parents' place in Connecticut, Todd and I stopped in Fitchburg on our way home.  We stopped so that Poppy and Iris could attend the Worcester County Kennel Club Show and participate in the Rally Classes being offered.  I'm really enjoying my entry into the world of AKC competition via Rally classes.  If you're looking to get started in the AKC world as an amateur, Rally is the place for you.  The only frustration being the relative paucity of shows offering Rally classes.

After finally getting around to completing the paperwork need for Poppy to be registered with an PAL number   I was able to enter her for Rally Novice.  Iris having achieved her Rally Novice title in September was entered in Rally Advanced.  This is a huge jump.  Not only are more challenging exercises added in, you give up your leash.  So, you're in this noisy, crowded area which has a ring in the midst of it all.  Your dog can't really hear a lot of your verbal commands.  I didn't think Iris was ready, but since Poppy was going, I entered Iris.

Iris was first.  She's been to this venue before and strutted in as if she owned the place.  I was caught a bit off guard as the class moved  quicker than anticipated due to some no shows.  She lost focus a few times and started to sniff.  I goofed on a station and cost us 10 points.  I was thrilled with her overall as she did the exercises we'd been struggling with and pulled off an 82.  So, one leg down, two to go.  Next available show isn't until February.

Poppy was up next.  I'd been very worried that she'd fine the show environment overwhelming and have a meltdown.  My challenges in the ring with her came from the fact that she had been sound asleep and drooling at my feet.  She grew bored quickly and sacked out for a nap next to Pattie and Levi.  So, I lost points for her lagging behind me.  Poppy posted a very respectable 92 to earn her first leg.  She will also be attending the show in Portland in February

Now, some congratulations to some other folks are in order.  Some great handler and dog combos earned titles yesterday.  Pattie and Levi earned their Rally Novice title.  Pattie is a long time breeder of  some great cocker spaniels.  She'll be starting work towards their Rally Advanced in Portland.  We expect to see her mom starting in Rally competition soon as well.

Iris's grandmom, Bridgette and her human Diane, of Ellis Dog Training finished their Rally Excellent title.  Diane has been integral to the success I've had with my girls.  Linda and Ozzie also finished their Rally Excellent title.