DMT’s Christmas In Dixie FDC CAX12 FCAT50 RATN DN CGCA CGCU TKP ATT FITG FTI owned by Danny Terry of Wetumpka, AL
2024 came to a bittersweet end for Danny Terry and his All American Dog, Holly, as she ran her final CATs and Fast CATs. She is retiring after a 7+ year career and over 1200 runs combined, earning her last titles of CAX12 and FCAT50.
While her mind still loves the game, at 10 years old her body is having a harder time keeping up. Danny decided he would rather stop by choice, and end on a good note, rather than being forced to later on. “I might let her do fun runs occasionally, but no more worrying about when or if she will finish the next title,” he said. “This dog has already achieved every goal I set for her and more. She owes me nothing.”
The first time Holly ever saw a lure course, she immediately lit up. Danny had never seen her that excited for anything. It became the “happy place” where she could overcome all her fear and anxiety. She had a natural talent for running, and the joy it brought her made Danny want to pursue it further. This led them to travel hundreds of thousands of miles visiting 18 different states to give her as many opportunities as possible.
Holly made history as the first mixed breed dog to reach FCAT10 and beyond. She was featured in the AKC Canine Partners News, Spring 2023 and to date is still the highest Fast CAT titled All American Dog, the highest titled in the over 18″ size division (no handicap on points), and the 4th highest titled across all breeds. In her prime, she consistently ran 6.9-7.2 seconds, with a personal best of 6.75 seconds (30mph). She has a 100% qualifying rate in both CAT and Fast CAT.
Her accomplishments include completing the K9 Biathlon obstacle race, as well as titles in other venues in agility, weight pull, scent work, barn hunt and more. But the lure sports have always been her favorite.
Danny has built his life around this sport – even learning to operate the lure himself and with partners recently starting a company, Salty Dogs Coursing, to bring more events to the local area.
“I don’t know what else to say,” he said. “Words seem insufficient for what this dog means to me. I wish we could stop time or keep going forever. I couldn’t be prouder of Holly and will treasure all these memories made. Now she gets to just enjoy life with no rules.”