Team Two Participant - Dick Symons
In 1969, Dick and his Toy Poodle, Shadow entered their first obedience class, changing their lives forever. In two years Shadow had earned the UD title, later Dick and Shadow went international and competed in Bermuda and Canada. Dick and his wife Susan also owned Missi; a German Shepherd Dog who earned a CDX. The Symons' Belgian Tervuren, have been a large chapter in their lives. In 1984 their Belgian Tervuren bitch "Tammi" earned her conformation championship. Then Jessi earned her conformation Championship and was Dick's first dog to earn the Utility Dog and Tracking Dog titles. Next were Dixxi, Jeff, Jenni and Izzi all earning various other titles. Jessi is distinguished as an FCI International Champion and the first FCI Ch Belgian Sheepdog with a UD title in four countries including Mexico. She also honored the Dick and Sue Symons by being awarded the American Belgian Tervuren, Breeder Achievment of Record. What an exciting time!
Dick and his wife decided to enter into community service with their dogs in 1993. Jessi earned her Therapy Dog certification and the Symons' have continued serving their community with their Belgian Tervuren. The dogs visit patients every week at St. Louise Regional Hospital in Morgan Hill/Gilroy. This is oftentimes the highlight of the patient's week. Dick is a CGC and TDI evaluator, hoping to attract others toward this inspiring community service.
Within the last five years Dick discovered herding and began with Dixxi who earned the Herding Started title. Dick's current Tervuren include Izzi, Kurt, and Frannie. Izzi and Kurt also enjoy competing in agility. Dick earned his first TDX and VST titles with Ch CT Symons' Treasure Izzi VCD2 UD PT (Izzi) competing at the American Belgian Tervuren Club's National Specialty in 2005.
Yes, it has been an awesome 36 years!
