Rip training session video

Here's a video of a short training session with Rip. We did some warmups through the tunnel, then weave-a-matic practice and tire/tunnel sequence. He is coming along great with his weaves. I have also started to incorporate just weave entry training with a set of 2 poles.

Couple Rip pictures

My intent tonight during our short training session was to record Rip doing weave practice and some tunnel sequences. I was using my digital camera that has a movie mode. Well, it seems that I thought I told it to start recording, but when I downloaded the results to the computer, it seems it didnt actually record. Anyway, I did take a few pictures too. Here's a couple of them. I will try to actually press the record button tomorrow to get some video.

Rip in a basket

Silly Rip, who definitely has a clownish personality, decided the other day that the laundry basket sitting outside my homeoffice was a great place to be.
I got the camera and snapped a picture from my chair, but when I got up to get a better picture, he got out of the basket.



The other day, we got about 2 inches of snow (though we are back to the 70's). Rip had a great time playing with a flatsketball (popped basketball) in an area where the snow had drifted to maybe 4 inches deep. He was tossing the ball in the air, pouncing it, all the while making sure to stay in the deepest part of the snow. I wonder if he remembers snow from when he was a baby living in Pennsylvania. I cant wait until we get a real storm to see how he likes it.
No pictures or video this time, but next time I will be ready.

Rip training progress

I haven't done an update on Rip's training in a while. He is in our level 2 agility classes on Monday nights, which is where we begin some sequencing, focusing on crosses, as well as more obstacle familiarization and contact position training. Since we are already competing with Skye, we don't have to worry about the crosses and handling aspects so much, though I do have to drive in further to ensure Rip takes an obstacle, and don't run a sequence as though I am running Skye.
I am happy to say that Rip is really coming along well as an agility dog. His drive is ever increasing. Rip has come a long way from his original fears as he will now volunteer a fullheight teeter, which we havent trained in class. He's gone over full height dogwalks and AFrames without concern too.
Another cool development is Rip's interest in toys. He has graduated to constantly playing with a ball and bringing it to me to throw, which is huge. I have done a practice session with just a squeeky rabbit toy as reward.
During my daily practice sessions, I am working with the weaveamatics, doing contact positions, table, teeter, some light sequencing, some drive building, startline stay, jumping with wraps, etc.

Skye Halloween Costume

We had a halloween contest at class this week, and Skye went as "Army Dog".


Skye's girlfriend Sydney went as a cheerleader and was a big hit - she won the honors for best costume!