As I sit here I can't help but reflect on how far Cami and I have come in six weeks. Last night was our last conformation class (for the time being). We officially finished our first session and will be gladly signing up for another 6 week class in January. Our instructor was patient and very kind with my limited knowledge and my novice mistakes. Penny graciously was gentle with her criticism and corrections. She made it fun for both Cami and I. She has shared her wealth of knowledge with me and I will be forever grateful.
I am also saddened to think that we won't be heading out on Thursday nights to go to class. It is truly a lot of fun and a great bonding experience with your dog. I can only shake my head and wonder what Penny thought of me. An eager learner and a blank slate I hope! The look on my face must have said it all when she asked if I knew anything about showing. I sheepishly replied, "I've watched a few on TV and that is about it." "No worries," she said, "we will get you all squared away."
Several times over the six weeks I felt like saying 'There is NO WAY Camden is going to do THAT!' Every single time I was proven wrong. Cami kept surprising me... every single class. In last week's class we did an 'invisible lead' session. We were supposed to show our pups without a lead. I just shook my head. I was so sure Cami wasn't going to listen to a word I said. I started around the ring and to my surprise Camden followed. She jumped after the treat in my hand a few times but she did it! And at the end she did a free stack like a pro.... ok not like a pro, but SHE DIDN'T SIT DOWN!
All the credit for these small achievements goes to Penny and Camden. Penny gave me the tools and guidance and Cami took over. She has constantly showed no fear when being asked to balance on a medicine ball or to walk over an agility ladder. She follows me without much prompting. She truly trusts me heart and soul and has a lot of confidence in herself. I think many people, including myself could learn a thing or two from her.
We also practiced going around the ring and having other dogs run up on us and metal chairs falling over.... gates collapsing... cheering, clapping, chanting... basically lots of noise. Cami always kept on moving. A few times she would stutter a step or glance back at the noise.... but the gait was never truly lost. If she was stacked... she would look but not break the stack. I just am floored that a 6 month old puppy is able to do so much! She is such a smart girl and is taking to showing like a duck to water.
I'm going to miss our weekly classes with Penny and can't wait for the next round to start up in January!! Until then it looks like it is going to be practicing at home and asking lots of advice on here! - Ashley
I am also saddened to think that we won't be heading out on Thursday nights to go to class. It is truly a lot of fun and a great bonding experience with your dog. I can only shake my head and wonder what Penny thought of me. An eager learner and a blank slate I hope! The look on my face must have said it all when she asked if I knew anything about showing. I sheepishly replied, "I've watched a few on TV and that is about it." "No worries," she said, "we will get you all squared away."
Several times over the six weeks I felt like saying 'There is NO WAY Camden is going to do THAT!' Every single time I was proven wrong. Cami kept surprising me... every single class. In last week's class we did an 'invisible lead' session. We were supposed to show our pups without a lead. I just shook my head. I was so sure Cami wasn't going to listen to a word I said. I started around the ring and to my surprise Camden followed. She jumped after the treat in my hand a few times but she did it! And at the end she did a free stack like a pro.... ok not like a pro, but SHE DIDN'T SIT DOWN!
All the credit for these small achievements goes to Penny and Camden. Penny gave me the tools and guidance and Cami took over. She has constantly showed no fear when being asked to balance on a medicine ball or to walk over an agility ladder. She follows me without much prompting. She truly trusts me heart and soul and has a lot of confidence in herself. I think many people, including myself could learn a thing or two from her.
We also practiced going around the ring and having other dogs run up on us and metal chairs falling over.... gates collapsing... cheering, clapping, chanting... basically lots of noise. Cami always kept on moving. A few times she would stutter a step or glance back at the noise.... but the gait was never truly lost. If she was stacked... she would look but not break the stack. I just am floored that a 6 month old puppy is able to do so much! She is such a smart girl and is taking to showing like a duck to water.
I'm going to miss our weekly classes with Penny and can't wait for the next round to start up in January!! Until then it looks like it is going to be practicing at home and asking lots of advice on here! - Ashley
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