Five days of action at the 2023 Berger Picard Nationals in Ocala, FL.
Photo-Feature:
Fast CATs and Herding Trials in central Florida November 2023
While the Berger Picard 2023 Nationals conformation was being held nearby, we joined the Salty Dogs Coursing team for 4 days of Fast CAT and a day of Herding trials this November.
The weather cooperated for the multi-day event with bright skies and occasional clouds to keep it cool. Dozens of teams ran the Fast CAT. An extremely popular sport in the American Kennel Club (AKC) open to all breeds and mixed breeds. The races were interrupted for a day of Herding Trials on the Monday and resumed for one more day on Tuesday.
About Salty Dogs Coursing
We cover most any dog activities and sports. Fast CAT continues to be one of the most popular. Theirs been a learning process over the few years it has existed and equipment, and rules are constantly being reviewed for improved safety and efficiency.
Our goal is to bring you events that are safe, fun, and efficient. - Salty Dogs Coursing
Salty Dogs Coursing may be the most efficient and friendliest vendor we have worked with to date. The course had a massive sixty yard runn off at the end. Suitable for all dogs and especially the juggernaut Greyhounds to have a safe range to slow down to a stop with fear of running into anything. This was only the 3rd event the team was responsible for, but the members have hundreds of Fast CATs managed in their previous roles before teaming us as a new company.
We had a number of competitors mention how pleased they were with the great course layout and even more commented on how friendly and helpful the team was, making it a very memorable event for them. It was a real pleasure to work with the Salty Dogs Coursing team and we hope to see them back in Florida again in the future.
Salty Dogs Coursing operates throught out the South-East U.S. and can be contacted via their website below.
More Info: https://saltydogscoursing.com/
About AKC Fast CAT
Fast CAT, the CAT standing for "coursing ability test" is a Coursing Ability Test – is a timed 100-yard dash where dogs run one at a time, chasing a lure.
Basically a 100 yard dash to the finish line. Some dogs enthusiastically chase the lure, while others are more focused on getting back to mom or dad. Either technique is fine as fun is the real name of the game.
“The Fast CAT® provides a terrific opportunity to introduce new participants to the world of AKC sports as one of the few events where all that is needed to compete is a dog’s natural instincts.” - AKC
More Info: https://www.akc.org/sports/herding/
About AKC herding
Herding and hunting are perhaps the oldest of partnerships between man and dog. There is something magical to watch these teams in action across the fields with sheep and cattle. The trials provide simulations of common ranch tasks. Driving the stock to a pen, splitting a herd (known as a shed) and leading through a "chute".
Throughout all field trials the teamwork between handler/shepherd and dog is essential. - AKC
Unlike many popular games like dock diving or Fast CAT, the practice and training in herding requires dedication, patience and perseverance. The best first step is to attend the trials. See how the events run and meet the owners and trainers. An additional online resource for those interested is a Facebook group; Herding in Florida, where many of the community post news, upcoming events and discuss all things herding.
More Info: https://www.akc.org/sports/herding/
Hero Dogz Information for those with disabilities.
Dog events are often either in open plots of land or at working farms.
It's important to try and get information before heading out. Most often there is not a wheelchair Porta-Potty and there is often no actual seating or food/water unless you bring them. Always check ahead. Most every sport will make efforts to accommodate those with disabilities, but fore notice is always recommended.
Fast CAT is one of the easiest to enter sports. If your dog is grown past puppy stage and has a good "prey drive" or "recall", plus loves to run? This may be the game for you. Their are usually people on hand to assist in wither releasing your dog or catching at the end. Salty Paws Coursing was especially good with seeing everyone received any assistance they needed.
Herding takes commitment and constant training. It is not an easy game to start, but there are several locations in and around central Florida that can provide a herding test evaluation and/or training. The first step is usually to attend an event as a spectator and ask question to introduce your self and get information specific to where you live and what facilities would be closest to you to help get your journey started. If you are interested in getting started?
We can help Feel free to drop us a line with your specific interests and information on yourself and your dogs that can help us help you. info@badazzdogz.net
Further contact information below the gallery.
PHOTO-FEATURE Berger Picard Nationals Sports
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NOTE! Images are free to download and use by the owners shown in the image and their dog. They may not be used for any commercial, business or news media without express permission. Contact info@badazzdogz.net with inquiries.
More Information: - Fast CAT and Herding Event search https://www.akc.org/sports/events/
As with all events Bad Azz Dogz features, it is the hope you will consider coming out into our amazing Florida Bad Azz Dogz world of fun and activities near you.
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