Michelle wants to introduce dog sport in Emalahleni

For your dog to receive a rosette, all that is needed is for the dog to be fast, healthy and fit. Michelle Meyer wants to introduce dog sports in Emalahleni which will ultimately be in the entire Mpumalanga.

“Gauteng is one of the provinces that have these kinds of competitions at but not here. I want to fill that gap as I feel we are capable,” said Michelle.

Griffon, a rottweiler. (Photo: Melissa Wilson)

This is an ideal sport for your dog to release their energies in the right way as opposed to getting rid of your dog because they are too active.

Rave. (Photo: Melissa Wilson)

Dog handlers can start the sport as young as 10 years old up until any age.

It is advisable that dogs must start training for this sport at three months, as there is a lot of work things to do such as twisting and turning. Competing can star from 18 months as then the dog’s hips are fully grown. They can compete until they are 13-years-old.

8-year-old Jack Russel, Sandy. (Photo: R.B Photography)

“Running with the dog around the neighbourhood and exercising will help a lot for the competition,” said Michelle.

During training dogs can be allowed to eat dog treats. It will not complicate the preparations.

Michelle says the requirements to participate in the various dog competitions are quite easy.
For the dog hanlder: You must be able to be a good leader that thinks on their feet, you must be able to guide the dog and outsmart it.

There are three levels in dog sports being Grade 1 where the dog must get three signatures; Grade 2 the dog must get three signatures and to pass Grade 3 the dog must get 10 signatures.

Dazzy won a silver medal (Grade 3 agility) at the regionals. (Photo: supplied)

What happens in the competition is guiders only have 10 minutes to memorise the field before the race starts. Dogs compete according to their different sizes and not breed.

“The key issue is you must have good communication with your dog. Body language together with hand and eye co-ordination is important for you as a dog handler. Even though Collie’s and Jack Russels excel in this sport, the more you practice the better your dog will be. I would say the naughtier the dog is the better, as naughty dogs have high energies,” said Michelle.

Look at him running for the number one spot. (Photo: R.B Photography)

Like any other sport dog sport has different levels such as the regionals, South African Championships and World Championships. Receiving accolades such as provincial colours should the dog do well. Dazzy won a silver medal (Grade 3 agility) at the regionals recently.

Winners get signatures, with the overall price being rosettes and dog food, but it must be a clear win to get such an award.

Get your dogs ready and well trained as the next champion could be from Emalahleni. After all the path to success begins with a single step.