Competition Title Update Winter 2018

Competition/Titles Update

We have some big news to report about All-Americans succeeding at earning the top titles in Agility, Coursing Ability, Rally, Obedience and Tracking. This past quarter delivered the first Agility Grand Champion and the first Rally Master title holders! There is also a new Champion Tracker and lots of exciting news about All Americans excelling at national events.

AGILITY
AKC Agility Invitational
Congratulations to the All-American Dogs who won honors at the 2017 AI on Dec. 16-17 in Orlando, FL. PNAC MACH9 PACH2 Logan Lake Hope and Kim Barton of Johnstown, OH, took third place in the 8-inch division.

Two other CP members make the finals of their divisions. MACH3 Jeter Morris and Kaela Morris of Thousand Oaks, CA, were in the finals of the 12-inch division, and MACH8 Moses Raphael York and Jordan York of Evansville, IN, were in the finals of the 20-inch division.

Westminster Kennel Club Master Agility Championship
All-Americans were in the finals of each jump height division in the Westminster Kennel Club Masters Agility Championship on Feb. 10 in New York City.

El Jefe De los Milagros, owned by Liza Buckner of Sebsatopol, CA, took second place in the 12-inch division and was the high scoring mixed breed.

In addition, congratulations to these All-American finalists:

• 8-inch class – Jack Morris owned by Sandy Morris of Reston, VA – placed 7th
• 16-inch class – Lil’ Cherokee Dreamcatcher owned by Christy Wrede of Eatontown, NJ – placed 11th
• 20-inch class – Le Lonnie owned by Robin Lembo of West Milford, NJ – placed 8th
• 24-inch class – Stumler’s Harley owned by Erin Stumler of Floyd’s Knob, IN – placed 4th

First AKC Agility Grand Champion (AGCH)
AGCH MACH4 PACH2 Greer’s Ellie, owned by Carol Greer of Mineral Bluff, GA, became the first All-American Dog to earn the new AKC Agility Grand Championship title on Oct. 22, 2017, at the Atlanta Golden Retriever Club’s trial in Pendleton, SC.

Ellie and Carol have enjoyed the sport of agility for more than six years. They’ve had the opportunity to travel to trials in Georgia, Tennessee, North Carolina, South Carolina, Alabama, Kentucky, and Florida, making many friends along the way. Carol said she and Ellie have enjoyed every moment in their agility journey. “Ellie especially, since there are treats waiting at the end of each run,” she said.

Ellie also enjoys walks through her mountain community, taking long naps, and roughhousing with her two canine brothers, Kai and Zac. “Throughout her career, Ellie has earned many agility titles, but the AGCH has truly been a lifetime achievement,” Carol said. Ellie, 9 years old, is approaching retirement from agility and looking forward to checking out Barn Hunt and Scent Work.

Ellie AGCH

Master Agility Championships (MACH)
Multiple Master Agility Champions
Congratulations to these dogs who have earned more MACHs:

• MACH10 Moses Raphael York UD BN GN GO RAE4 MXB3 PAD MJC3 PJS MFS TQX T2B7 CGCA CGCU TKA owned by Jordan Patrick York of Evansville, IN
• MACH12 Feel the Need MXC3 PAD MJS4 PJD MFC TQX T2B10 CGC owned by Janet K. Boggs of Crawfordsville, IN
• MACH2 Betty Sue Stien MXS MJS2 MXF T2B owned by H F Rick Stienecker of Cypress, TX
• MACH2 Gilly Of Redwood MXG MJG XF owned by Marcy Jacobs of Godfrey, IL
• MACH2 Ever MXS MJC XF T2B3 owned by Kyle Teresa Miles of Tell City, IN
• MACH2 Haley’s Buddy Pogo MXS MJG XF T2B2 CGCA CGCU TKN owned by Elisabeth Marr of Galena, OH
• MACH2 Mignonne MXS MJG XF T2B TKA owned by Robin Foret of Spring, TX
• MACH2 Dixie Belle Black CD BN MXG MJG owned by Jennifer Sumpter of Algonquin, IL
• MACH2 Windair’s Little Princess MXS MJG NF T2B owned by Valera Russell of West Point, IA
• MACH2 Dancin’ The Jive MXG MJG MXF T2B owned by Cheryl Schiml of Beaver Creek, OH
• MACH2 Trots for Treats MXS MJS XF T2B owned by Kristin Dujardin of Fishkill, NY
• MACH3 Day’s Katie MXG MJG MXF T2B3 TKA owned by Alison Day of Johnstown, CO
• MACH3 Jeter Morris MXS MJG MXP MJP2 OF NFP T2B TKI owned by Kaela Morris of Thousand Oaks, CA
• MACH5 Annie Skabannie MXG2 MJS2 MXF T2B owned by Joan E. Russo of Ocala, FL
• MACH5 African Queen MXC2 MJC2 OF T2B CGC owned by Maryanne Borowski of Millstone Township, NJ
• MACH9 Cabonina La Saltadora MXS3 MJS3 owned by Melissa and Jason Meier of Germantown, WI
• MACH8 Sally of Ingleside MXG2 MJC2 XF T2B2 owned by Valerie and Rod Dietz of O’Fallon, IL
• MACH8 Donaldson’s Daisy MXB3 MJG3 OF owned by Laura J. Donaldson of Elk Grove, IL

Congratulations to these new first-time MACHs:
MACH Penny for Your Thoughts RAE MXS MJB XF T2B CAX CGC owned by Amanda Kleiman of Westerville, OH
Penny was 8 weeks old when Amanda adopted her from a rural county shelter in Indiana in 2009.

Amanda and Penny started training for agility in 2011 when Penny was 2 years old. “It has been a long six-year journey to attain her MACH title, but I could not be happier or prouder of my little pound puppy for this accomplishment. She was my first dog and first agility dog, so we learned a lot together along the way. I’m sure it wouldn’t have taken nearly as long for her if she had a handler who knew what she was doing!” said Amanda.

They attended their first AKC National Agility Championship event in 2017, placing 33rd in the 20″ Regular class. “Penny had three clean rounds at our first NAC; I was extremely proud! We are looking forward to our second NAC in Reno in just a few short months.”

MACH Penny

MACH Maeby Just a Little Nuts MXB MJB OF TKA owned by Stefanie Theis of Pleasant Ridge, MI
Maeby came to Stefanie through a friend who fostered her litter through a rescue. At the time, Stefanie was looking for a companion for her other dog, but it turned out that Maeby liked agility.

“Maeby is full of energy and enthusiasm and has just brightened my life. She has pushed me to become a better dog trainer and a better handler. Aside from agility, Maeby enjoys trick training, lure coursing and going for hikes. I can’t thank the people responsible for bringing this dog into my life enough; she is a perfect fit!” said Stefanie.

MACH Maeby

MACH Drum NA NAJ OA OAJ AX AXJ MX MXB MXJ MJS MJB owned by Stephanie Keck of Richmond, VA is an English Shepherd who runs as an All-American since English Shepherds are not AKC-recognized. He earned his MACH on Aug 11, 2017, at the Greater Monroe Kennel Club trial in Concord, NC. “He’s 7 years old, and his favorite things in life are his people (a true ‘English Shadow’), agility and helping around the house, including bringing in the paper and keeping a very watchful eye over the youngsters,” said Stephanie.

MACH Drum – Photo credit Stewart Event Images

MACH Bleu’s Precious Sassy MXB MJB CGC owned by Anne Mosner of Chesterfield, NJ
At 12 weeks, old, Sassy was given to a feed and supply store for placement because of her high energy level.  Anne’s husband, Joe Mosner, happened to be in the store that day. Since he runs a boarding, training and grooming facility, he thought he could find her a new home. It turned out to be his and Anne’s. “I was a lucky dog owner,” she said.

They began with puppy kindergarten class, continuing with basic obedience, AKC Canine Good Citizen, and then beginners’ agility. They watched Joe compete in agility with his Golden Retrievers any chance they had, but Anne had no intention to compete with Sassy. Sassy was almost 3 years old when they tried some runs at a B-match at Total Turf in Pittman, NJ.  They got a taste for more and began competing. Since Anne works with race horses seven days a week, she and Sassy can usually only compete on Sundays.

Sassy loves agility so they keep trying to improve their skills, and Sassy earned her MACH title on Nov. 5, 2017 at the Staten Island Companion Dog Training Club trial in Metuchen, NJ. Now they aspire toward a MACH2!

“Sassy is always up for trail walks, training, playing and of course competing. It’s been a fun journey that even took us to Westminster last year. Even though we didn’t have any clean runs there, it was still a fun experience,” Anne said. “I feel lucky that I ended up with such a fun, willing and loving companion as Sassy as my novice agility dog and I hope we can enjoy many more fun years and adventures together.”

MACH Sassy

MACH Augustus McCrae MXB MJG OF T2B2 owned by Leigh Rae Keathley of Jenks, OK
Augustus earned his MACH in Wichita Falls, TX, at the Obedience Training Club of Wichita Falls trial on Aug.  5, 2017.

“Gus, as he is known to his friends and family, is a true joy with a heart of gold. He was named after the character ‘Gus’ in the book/TV mini-series Lonesome Dove – a true and loyal friend who went above and beyond. He truly is a wonderful dog and friend,” Leigh said.

His other activities include riding shotgun in the truck, tractor, or 4-wheeler; keeping cows and horses away from the fence; sleeping on the couch; and his all-time favorite – belly rubs. Leigh said Gus is looking forward to his next adventure of attending the AKC National Agility Championship in Reno, NV.

MACH Gus

Congratulations also to these first-time MACHs:

• MACH Columbia River He’s So Dashing MXB PAD MJB MXF T2B2 owned by Barbara Sorg of Portland, OR
• MACH Lady Luck’s Catch Me If You Can MXB MJS NF T2B2 owned by Gloria Krueger of New Market, AL
• MACH Zoe Mia Vogel MXB MJB OF T2B2 owned by Kathleen Vogel of Bay City, MI
• MACH Wheatie Wye MXB MJB XF T2B CGC owned by Lauren Wye of Palo Alto, CA
• MACH Maisie MXB MJB XF owned by J. William & Tara Filling of York, PA
• MACH Miss Sal’s Song of The South MXB MJS NF owned by Sherrie Jans of Bell, FL
• MACH Mazy MXS MJS CA owned by Barbara Barrett of Alpharetta, GA
• MACH Nostromos Shadow Chaser MXB MJB XF owned by Laura Harper of Ellisville, MO
• MACH Tucson’s Lost Boy “Pistol Pete” MXB MJS OF TKN owned by Geralyn Russo of Commack, NY

Preferred Agility Championships (PACH)
Multiple PACHs
Congratulations to these dogs who have earned more PACHs:

• MACH PACH2 Hyper Leila CD BN RA MXS MJS MXP5 MXPS MJP6 MJPS PAX2 MFB T2B3 CGCA owned by Julianna & Christy Munden of Pasco, WA
• PACH2 Zucchini of Wylde Green NAJ MXP6 MXPS MJP7 MJPS PAX2 owned by Trish Nelson & Aaron Wings of Iowa City, IA
• MACH4 PACH2 Little Miss Ginger Snap MXS2 MJG2 MXP5 MXPS MJP6 MJPS PAX2 OF T2B owned by Lisa D. Brooks of Houston, TX
• PACH2 Smiley Riley MXP6 MXPS MJP8 MJPG PAX2 owned by Paula Kotowski of Santa Barbara, CA
• PNAC MACH9 PACH3 Logan Lake Hope MXC2 MJG3 MXP8 MXPG MJP8 MJPG PAX3 XF T2B CGC owned by Kimberly Barton of Johnstown, OH
• PACH3 Peanut Bee RE AX AXJ MXP15 MXPS2 MJP20 MJPC2 PAX6 owned by Erin Tolchin of Fayetteville, NY
• PACH3 Elk Run Bella MXP13 MXPB2 MJP16 MJPS2 PAX3 OFP T2BP3 owned by Marcella Smith of Bridgewater, WA
• PACH4 Crosby’s Quinn MXP11 MXPC MJP15 MJPS2 PAX4 MFP T2BP owned by Krisanne Crosby of North Chesterfield, VA

Congratulations to these first-time PACH recipients:
MACH PACH Harley MXB MJB MJPB PAX OF owned by Kristen and James Davis of Charlotte, NC
James and Kristen adopted Harley at four months old, from a rescue shelter. Harley was very timid and nervous at first so they tried agility to bring her out of her shell, since she was naturally athletic. They began training with her at Dog Haven in Charlotte, NC in 2006. In 2010, when AKC accepted mixed breeds into competition, Harley began her AKC agility career.

In 2011, Harley was 1 of just 19 mixed breed dogs that qualified for the 2012 AKC nationals, although she did not attend since the trek to Reno, NV was just too much.

Harley’s story and successes on the agility field became the subject of a children’s book, written and illustrated by James’ mother, titled “Harley, The Throwaway Puppy.” The book and its follow-up about Harley’s brother, Mo, have raised thousands of dollars for animal rescue shelters. (more into at grizzliebooks.com)

James and Kristen alternated running Harley and her brother, but in the summer of 2012, Kristen took time off from agility to focus on being a mom to sons Rowan and Archer. Harley earned her MACH in 2013, after which she transitioned into the Preferred program to jump 20″ and reduce her workload. In November 2017, Harley earned her PACH at the Greater Monroe Kennel Club trial in Concord, NC. Having completed her PACH at the age of 12, Harley is now retired from competition.

PACH Harley

PACH Chinnici’s Lucia MXP3 MXPB MJPB PAX XFP T2BP owned by Lori Chinnici of Shelby Township, MI
Lucy is a 3-year-old rescue, a Lab/Dalmatian mix who started AKC Agility in June 2016.

“She is an awesome agility partner,” Lori said. Lucy earned her PACH on Sept. 1, 2017 at the Central Michigan Agility Club trial. Lucy is also qualified for the 2018 AKC National Agility Championship in Reno, NV.

PACH Luci

PACH Spotacular Lil Jazz Hands PAX MXP3 MXPB MJP6 MJPS CGCU owned by Susan Thompson of Raleigh, NC
Sammie is an 11-year-old mixed-breed that Thompsons have had since he was 8 weeks old. He is Susan’s first agility dog and earned his PACH on Oct. 7, 2017, at Teamworks Dog Training in Youngsville, NC.

“When he’s not playing agility, Sammie enjoys hanging out with our other dogs, Shelties, Miles & Lyra; taking daily walks; and weekend hiking and kayaking. We love him; he is a great little guy,” said Susan.

PACH Sammie

MACH10 PACH Samantha MXS3 MJC3 MXPB MJPB PAX FTC1 MFC TQX T2B6 owned by Donald and Leah Eicher of Laurel, DE
Sami and Don started competing in AKC agility in 2010, and they were one of the five All Americans to accept and compete at the AKC Agility Invitational in 2011 – the first year that mixed-breeds were eligible for this honor.

They earned their first MACH on June 6, 2011, and MACH 10 on Nov. 5, 2016, and are “one of the most consistent teams with a super Q rate,” Don said.

“In the fall 2014, Sami was diagnosed with stem cell cancer. After two surgeries and a six-month recuperation, she returned to competition like a real trouper,” Don said. “The Blue Heron Agility Association of Delaware is our home training site and has given us the support, cheering and encouragement that agility people all seem to share.

“Sami is a people person; she figured out early on that the humans have pockets with treats in them or they will pet her which makes for a happy tail-wagging pup.” Her jobs at home include retrieving and delivering the morning newspaper and the daily mail, shoe fetching and cleaning the kitchen floor.

“We have attended two AKC National Agility Championships, the latest at Perry, GA, and had a wonderful time. Now at age 12 ½, she is still double-Qing and we continue our agility journey. On June 25, 2017, at the Gloucester County Kennel Club trial at Total Turf in NJ, we earned our first PACH.”

PACH Sami

PACH Frejomil Ii’s Rocky MXP3 MXPB MJP3 MJPB PAX CGCA CGCU TKP owned by Richard Frejomil II of Rocky Point, NY
Richard brought Rocky into his home in 2009 when he was 7 weeks old. “When Rocky was a pup I knew I wanted to make his life purposeful. I bought books on how to teach dogs tricks and how to have an obedient dog. I was passionate about advocating for pit bulls and began to set goals for Rocky and myself,” Richard said.

Rocky passed the American Temperament test in 2011 and the AKC Canine Good Citizen test in 2012. Richard saw that Rocky’s abundant energy needed an outlet. He invested in a few materials to begin practicing agility. Their bond grew, and soon they were competing at Long Island agility trials.

They enjoy tricks and agility daily, and Rocky achieved Trick Dog Champion in 2014. In September 2016, Rocky earned MXP and MJP titles. In November, they got into the 2017 Westminster Masters Agility Championship but had a setback that same week when Rocky suffered a back injury. Rocky began physical therapy and progressed quickly. The pair could compete at Westminster. “However, as good as he was, I had suffered a bit of ring rust from the three-plus months of not competing, but I had my dog back and that was all that mattered,” Richard said.

On Aug. 5, 2017, Rocky earned his PACH at the Agility Association of Central NJ (JAG) in Metuchen, NJ.

In December 2016, Richard got a call from the television show Saturday Night Live. “They wanted Rocky to perform on the skit ‘Jingle Barrack.’ It aired that very Saturday. Though his part was short, it was a pleasure to see him on network television,” he said.

PACH Rocky

Congratulations also to these first-time PACHs:

• PACH Galmbacher’s Maggie MXP4 MXPB MJP6 MJPS PAX OFP owned by Donald & Sally Galmbacher of Orchard Park, NY
• MACH PACH Paved with Good Intentions MXS MJS MJPB PAX XF T2B CGC owned by Tamar Fuhrer & Jon Faria of Culver City, CA
• PACH Hartshorn’s Little Diva Zoey AX AXJ MXP4 MXPB MJP4 MJPB PAX CGCA owned by Gloria and Ken Hartshorn of Lincoln, NE
• MACH PACH Harley II MXB MJB MJPB PAX OF owned by Kristen & James Davis of Charlotte, NC
• PACH Duke Eggie MXPB MJPB PAX owned by Lawrence Eggie of Columbus, GA

COURSING ABILITY
Coursing Ability Excellent (CAX)
Congratulations to these dogs for earning multiple CAX titles:

• Ingomar Di Mancini Torsione Pane RN CAX10 DCAT ACT2 CGC owned by Katharine Renner of Sewickley, PA
• Iyong Tapat Kaibigan FDC CAX10 BCAT DN owned by Stephanie Joan Markgraf of Burlington, NC
• Lea Mia Star CAX2 owned by Hope Barnes of Bloomington, CA
• Evita Kola Gretzky OA AXJ NF CAX3 CGC owned by Molly Schmid of Claremont, CA
• 999 Happy Haunts, There’s Room for One More CAX3 BCAT owned by David & Jennifer Light of Leesburg, VA

Congratulations to these dogs who have earned their first Coursing Ability Excellent title for passing the test 25 times:

MACH Penny for Your Thoughts RAE MXS MJB XF T2B CAX CGC owned by Amanda Kleiman of Westerville, OH
Penny was 8 weeks old when Amanda adopted her from a rural county shelter in Indiana in 2009. In 2012, Amanda got an Ibizan Hound and was introduced to the sport of lure coursing.

“One of the first lure coursing trials I attended was offering fun runs. I had Penny along so I figured I would let her check it out. As soon as she saw the ‘bunny’ zooming around, she went crazy: jumping, lunging and making a screeching sound I had never heard her make before in her life. Needless to say, she loved it, and we were hooked,” Amanda said.

Amanda found Coursing Ability Test events so that Penny could earn titles. Since she was also active in agility and rally, they slowly chipped away at CAT titles as events popped up near them. Five years later, on Sept. 9, 2017, Penny earned her 25th passing leg for her CAX title at the Golden Retriever Club of Central Ohio in Johnstown, OH. “To this day, I can’t park the car near any large open fields without her getting excited!”

Penny CAX – MLBaer Photography

Annie Way You Want It MX AXJ CAX CGCA owned by Christine Nemeth of Eastlake, OH
“Annie, a coonhound/lab/golden retriever mix is my first performance dog and just a great all-around girl,” Christine said. “She’s loud, crazy, and just quirky enough to always keep me on my toes.”

Annie has dabbled in dock diving, obedience, disc, scent work and even some barn hunt in her younger years, but her true passions are rally, agility, and her favorite: lure coursing. “As soon as we arrive at the coursing field, Annie’s coon dog background really shines through. Anyone can hear her from miles away as she prepares to chase the ‘bunny.’ Annie would run on the field chasing the lure all day if you would let her,” Christine said.

Annie received her CAX title at the Lake Country Lure Coursers test at Sampson State Park in Romulus, NY, on Sept. 30, 2017.

Annie CAX

Smith’s Easy Peasy Japanesey BN RE OA AXJ NF CAX RATO DSA DJ AS CGC owned by Stacia Smith of Tamaqua, PA
Max is an 8 ½ years old All-American who completed his CAX on Nov. 19, 2017, at the Upper Chesapeake Bay Saluki Club test in Littlestown, PA.

Stacia adopted him from a shelter in Pottsville, PA, when he was 7 months old. Max also participates in several other AKC sports including agility, rally, and FAST CAT, as well as barn hunt and dock diving.

Max CAX – Mark Baer Photography

Congratulations also to these CAX title earners:

• Sasha Mcdoodle CAX BCAT CGC owned by John Kardel of Honesdale, PA
• Sammi Bella CAX owned by Lacey Bebout of Oklahoma City, OK

OBEDIENCE

AKC Obedience Classic
Congratulations to Up&Running A Mile a Minute CD MX MXJ MJB MXF and Julie Hill of Mandeville, LA, for placing eighth in the Novice class of this national event that took place Dec. 16-17 in Orlando, FL.

Obedience Grand Master (OMG)
OTCH Reckless Abandon Vd Rod’s OGM owned by Andrea B. Highland of Keymar, MD
From a young age, Reckless not only excelled on Andrea’s farm as a gung-ho, clever worker, she wanted to try everything, Andrea said. To keep her out of trouble, Andrea took her to classes for agility, freestyle, tricks, scent work and obedience training.

Reckless was such a quick study in obedience that they were referred to Catoctin Kennel Club for advanced classes. “At CKC, the training director stated that to train with them, we must compete in AKC Obedience trials,” Andrea said. “What a shock! I never wanted to compete. Reckless was having such fun in obedience class, I took the plunge into the world of competition with her. We never looked back.”

Reckless earned the Obedience Grand Master title on Sept. 16, 2017. The year ended with a sweet surprise when Reckless was invited to compete in the 2018 Masters Obedience Competition at Westminster Kennel Club in NYC.

“Reckless continues to be my cherished companion on our small farm and in the community. Even as a senior, she still thrives on new adventures and is always up for a job and games of Frisbee. I am blessed beyond measure to have her as my canine partner.”

Reckless OGM

Utility Dog (UD)
Bootes Cosmic Messenger UD VCD1 CAA VER TKN RATI RATN owned by Jackie Casally of Roebling, NJ
Mr. Boots was a feral Chow mix when he was adopted from a shelter in March 2012. Within a few weeks, he came out of his shell, and it soon became apparent that he was smart and bored easily, Jackie said.

“Walks and playtime weren’t enough for him,” she said. “He used to rip the curtains off the windows and the tablecloth from the dining room table. He was a horrible little puppy. I would be exhausted, and he was still go-go-go.”

On the advice of a friend, Jackie enrolled Mr. Boots in obedience training, where he began to blossom. At the time, Jackie had no idea that the AKC allowed mixed breeds to compete. They were soon bitten by the “bug” and began to train and compete in many venues. “His mind was like a sponge, eagerly absorbing everything I could throw at him,” she said.

The pair completed their UD on Nov. 17, 2017, at the Lower Camden County Dog Training Club trial.

Bootes UD

Make Me an Angel BN UD RAE NAP TKA owned by Connie Knisely of Roanoke, VA
“Her mom was a Cardigan Welsh Corgi. Her dad, it appears, was a Border Collie. A friend of mine fostered the litter, and I was smitten when I first met them!” Connie said.

Four-year-old Sprite and Connie have had many firsts together including competing in Open and Utility; competing in Barn Hunt; and starting tracking training.

“Sprite is very much our family dog. She goes to work with me most every day and has been on vacations up and down the East Coast and to the Grand Canyon. She enjoys being a lap dog and playing with other dogs. She lives with Chinese Cresteds and because she is the same height sometimes forgets she is three times bigger.”

Sprite needs one more leg for her Rally Master title. Connie said they are looking forward to many more firsts with goals of a TD and a VCD and “who knows what else!”

She finished her UD on Sept. 3, 2017, at the Raleigh Kennel Club obedience trial.

Sprite UD

RALLY
Rally Master (RM)
First All-American Rally Master
PACH Uggie Bug Jones CDX RM RAE FDC AX AXJ MXP7 MXPG MJP7 MJPS PAX2 OF MFPB T2BP2 CGCA CGCU TKA owned by Shannon Jones of Cary, NC
Uggie, a 15-year-old mixed breed, became the first dog in the AKC Canine Partners program to earn the new AKC Rally Master (RM) title. His owner, Shannon, is also is an AKC Rally judge.

Shannon and Uggie achieved the feat on Dec. 8, 2017, at the Durham (NC) Kennel Club trial.
Uggie also holds AKC titles in agility, obedience, Canine Good Citizen, Trick Dog and Barn Hunt.

The senior dog is a rescue who was discovered as a young pup, hiding under a grill cover in Shannon’s yard after an ice storm.

Uggie RM

Maxwell Ferguson Mullen Awtrey CD BN RM RAE CGCA TKN owned by Barbara & Robert Awtrey of Ellicott City, MD
Max was born in 2014 in the wild of Montgomery County, MD, to a feral mother. At the age of 2 ½ weeks when Max and his six brothers and sisters started escaping from the den, a rescue group stepped in and removed the puppies to a wonderful foster home.

“For the next three or more weeks, the puppies were bottle fed, almost around the clock, and flourished under the love and care of a fabulous family. From the very beginning it was obvious that Max was a special talented pup with a tremendous sense of humor,” Barbara said.

At 12 ½ weeks, Max joined the Awtrey family. Max’s formal training began in spring 2015 when he was enrolled in a basic obedience class. Just a few months later, he earned his first AKC title, Beginner Novice, on Nov. 22, 2015. On Feb. 6, 2016, Max was awarded his Rally Novice title followed by Rally Advanced on Sept. 24, 2016; Rally Excellent on April 23, 2017; and Rally Advanced Excellent title on Sept. 24, 2017, at the Hyattsville (MD) Dog Training Club trial.

Maxwell is eligible to compete at RAE level at the AKC Rally Nationals to be held this summer in Ohio. He earned his Rally Master title on Jan. 14, 2018, at the Fredericksburg (VA) Kennel Club trial.

Barbara and Max enjoy other canine sports. They earned his Trick Dog Novice title in June 2017, and there are plans to compete in Max’s first FAST CAT event. Max also has earned his CGCA and is scheduled to test for the CGCU.

Max RM

Rally
Multiple Rally Advanced Excellent (RAEs)

Congratulations to these dogs who have added more RAEs to their names:

• Our Sweet Waally Waally Wabbitt CD PCD BN RAE11 owned by James and Barbara Roberts of Lakeland, FL
• Bossman Sweetater Freighter RAE19 owned by James and Barbara Roberts of Lakeland, FL
• Ziva D. Of Wissota CDX PCDX BN GN RAE5 THDN FDCH RATN CGC TKA owned by Rexann Lemke of Chippewa Falls, WI
• Jada Mayhem CDX PCDX BN GN RAE3 owned by Leroy and Mary Gouge of Florissant, MO
• Turbo-Nadir CDX BN GN RAE3 NA NAJ CGCA TKP owned by Kimberly Ann Hoeppner of Welsh, LA
• Jack-Daniels UD GO RAE3 owned by Alison Smith of East York, ON
• Benson Of Willow CD PCD BN GN RAE2 owned by Virginia Cranston of Wilson, NY
• Moroughan’s Roxy CDX BN RAE2 CGC owned by Vicki Moroughan of Hurlock, MD
• Waltzing Matilda PCD BN RAE2 CGCA CGCU owned by Jill Lindsay of Bismarck, ND
• Jimenez’s Max CD RAE2 FDC NA NAJ NAP NJP TKN owned by Ana M Jimenez of El Paso, TX

Congratulations to these first-time RAE recipients:
Coach Crazy Horse RAE owned by Lynn Wesselmann of St. Louis, MO
It was love at first sight when Coach and Lynn met at the Humane Society of Missouri. He had been there for more than a month and from the way he was jumping and barking in his kennel, Lynn said she could see why he was still there. He was large, strong and intimidating, estimated to be about 7 years old. He was also scared, nervous and had the most beautiful tiger stripes she had ever seen. When they met one-on-one it was apparent that he was very intelligent and was watching her as much as she was watching him. “He listened to every word I said and when he curled up next to me, he was mine. He went home with me that day,” Lynn said.

Controlling Coach became a challenge. He showed his athletic skills by jumping a 6-foot fence and dragging Lynn behind by his leash after anything that moved. They got emergency basic obedience training, where the trainers suggested Lynn find a job for Coach. Agility and more advanced obedience classes were recommended.

Lynn had little experience with dog competitions and had never seen rally until she went to an AKC Obedience trial. It looked like so much fun that she and Coach began rally classes. With much patience and perseverance, Coach’s boundless energy became manageable. “I needed training as well, and we both gained much needed confidence and trust,” she said.

On Aug. 12, 2017, he earned the RAE title at the Jefferson County Kennel Club of Missouri trial. “My special dog has qualified in every show,” she said.

Coach RAE

Sybil’s Rudy RAE CGC owned by Sybil Davis of Aiken, SC

Rudy is a rescue who was never handled until he was 7 months old. After spending a year running with Sybil’s dogs on her farm and hiding under the bed, Sybil could catch him and start his training. They worked through basic obedience, and he received his CGC, then they started rally.

“He was terrified of the judges at first and of strange places but over these four years that it took to complete his RAE he has become a confident terrier. I’m a veterinarian and I never fully realized the emotional damage neglect can cause,” Sybil said. “I’m proud of the journey that Rudy and I have been on to develop his life experiences and confidence with obedience training. Without that exposure, he would not be the wonderful companion that he is today.”

Rudy completed his RAE at the Dog Obedience Club of Greenville, SC, trial on Oct. 15, 2017.

Rudy RAE

Another Bogey for Bob CDX PCDX BN GN RAE CGCA owned by Shireen Stout of Federal Way, WA
Shireen and Bob Stout adopted Bogey on Feb. 6, 2009, when he was approximately 2 years old. He had been picked up as a stray in eastern Washington state, spent almost two months in a shelter, and ended up on a list of dogs to be euthanized.

“That’s when the rescue organization, Saving Great Animals, stepped in and brought him to the west side of the mountains. They nursed him back to health (he had a horrible case of Giardia), had him neutered and posted him on Petfinder – where my husband and I found him and fell in love with him after our very first visit to his foster home,” Shireen said.

Bogey’s performance career began by accident. Shireen had never trained or shown a dog in anything and only started taking classes to build a stronger bond with Bogey. “Well, one thing led to another and, before you knew it, I was wanting to get in the ring like the rest of my fellow classmates,” she said.

“Bogey and I are far from what you might call perfect competitors. However, when it comes to having fun in the ring, I don’t think we can be beat. I can’t tell you how many times we’ve finished a performance and had not only spectators, but also judges, comment on how much they enjoyed watching us because Bogey looked like he was having such a great time. I have to admit this has always warmed my heart and, when it comes time to end our performance career, it will be what I miss the most.”

In addition to Rally, Bogey and Shireen have shown in obedience where he has earned his Companion Dog Excellent (CDX) title and other optional titles. “We’ve also tried a little herding, Scent Work and Barn Hunt. Mostly though, Bogey lives for his three daily walks and the opportunity to search out the neighborhood squirrels,” she said.

Bogey RAE

Bluegrass Beatles’ George Jetson CD BN RAE NJP NFP owned by Lee Ann Donner & George Hauenstein of Cohoes, NY
Jet is an 8-year-old Lab mix, who came in as a stray to the Champaign County Humane Society in Urbana, IL, when he was around 8 weeks old. Lee Ann Donner worked there as the development director, and she and her husband, George Hauenstein, took Jet in to foster.

It quickly became clear that their 1-year-old shepherd/corgi mix, Logan, loved Jet as much as they did, so Jet became a “failed foster.” They immediately got him into puppy class at the Dog Training Club of Champaign Urbana, and to this day the word “class” gets his tail wagging, Lee Ann said.

Jet got his CGC at DTCCU and took his first obedience classes there, following in the paw steps of Logan, who had already trained there in obedience, rally and agility.

When the family moved to Vermont later that year, the Burlington Obedience Training Club became their new home club, and Jet competed in its annual obedience and rally trials. He got his CD in 2015, and he earned his RAE on Nov. 5, 2017. “The icing on the cake was getting High Combined in the same trial at which he earned his RAE,” she said.

Jet RAE

Finnagen Begin Again CDX BN RAE CA owned by Lila Lippow of Martinez, CA

Finn’s mother was found on the streets of Tijuana, pregnant, and brought into a rescue in San Diego. Lila’s son, a college student in San Diego at the time, adopted Finn. He was raised for the first two years of his life by four young men running the beaches. “We refer to him even today as the California Beach Hound,” Lila said.

When Lila’s son graduated and took a job in San Francisco, Finn came across the bay to live with her, her husband, and their two corgis. “After a month or so it occurred to me that he might not be as goofy as he acted; after all he was a cross between a Golden Retriever and a Border Collie, two smart breeds. So, I started to train him.”

With the help of their trainer, Finn has done well. This year he finished his CDX, his RE and his RAE (on Sept. 17, 2017 at the Lake County Kennel Club of Northern California, with several perfect scores along the way). In his spare time, he is also an accomplished Barn Hunter, having his Senior title and Crazy 8 Silver. They are working on adding a tracking title and his obedience UD in the upcoming year.

“We feel very fortunate to have this ‘Beach Hound’ in our lives and happy that the AKC allows him to compete and excel in so many different performance events,” Lila said.

Finn RAE

Hampton Rogue CD BN RAE owned by Joan T. Newman of Milton, FL
“I was proud of Hampton,” said Joan. “When I started showing my other terriers in conformation, Hampton wanted to go along, so we began Rally and Obedience competition when he was 11 years of age. He completed his RAE title in Harrisburg, MS at 13 and now is retired – until he wants to do something else.”

Hampton RAE

Congratulations also to these first-time RAE recipients:

• Sir Arthur CDX BN GN RAE CGCA owned by Molly Trista Barath of Denver, CO
• Boldhearts Rock N Blue Jeans RAE CGCA owned by Diane Ostrem of Cottonwood, CA
• Pari Darwina Hope VCD1 BN RAE OA AXJ NFP RATS CGCA TKA owned Mary Ann Igoe of Blackfoot, ID
• Bellacarlson CD BN RAE CGCA TKI owned by Charlie Carlson of New Fairfield, CT
• Sophie Sweet Potato BN RAE CGCA CGCU owned by Elaine Luhr of Georgetown, KY
• Perfect Puppy Pepper RAE owned by Susan Newton of Mattaponi, VA
• Minnie’s Dash BN RAE CGCA TKN owned by Karen Kressel of Maryville, TN
• Black Tie’s Emily Carr BN RAE CGC owned by Ellen Schwartz of Ann Arbor, MI
• R.Princess Miya Chock BN RAE AXP AJP OFP THDA CGCA TKA owned by Cathy Chock of Honolulu, HI
• Jennifer Joy Anderson CD RAE NAP NJP owned by Abigail E M Anderson of Bailey, CO
• Shadow’s Calling CD BN RAE CGC owned by Rachel Nicole Lawrence of Little Rock, AR
• Tycho’s Equinox CD PCD BN RAE CGC owned by Cayla Wallwork of Austin, TX
• Just Enjoy the Journey CDX RAE owned by Caralynda Pfaff of Mitchell, IN

TRACKING
New Champion Tracker
CT Kegelman’s Caden owned by Bernadette Kegelman of West Chester, PA
“I always enjoyed watching how Caden used his nose when out on walks and thought that he might be a good tracker, so we gave it a try,” Bernadette said. “I started tracking with Caden in 2014, and he seemed to be a natural right from the start. He has a softer temperament than many working lines, but a great ability to focus which is what tracking requires.”

Caden passed his tracking certification test and TD and TDX titles in less than a year, but the Variable Surface Tracking (VST) title proved to be a challenge. This was especially true since Bernadette had limited experience in tracking.

“Trust your dog!” is what they heard from the judges before every test, and “they are right!” Bernadette said. Tracking requires the handler to rely on the decision-making skills of the dog, which is not always an easy thing to do. “I’m very fortunate that Caden is an honest dog who loves to track.

We aim to have fun and learn something new on every track, and he makes this possible,” she said.
Eight-year-old Caden passed his VST test at the University of New Hampshire in Durham, NH, on Aug. 12, 2017, and, in doing so, earned the AKC Champion Tracker title. The host club was the Yankee Golden Retriever Club.

CT Caden

Sype’s Harlie RN VST TDU THD CGCA CGCU TKI owned by Gail and George Sype of Rossford, OH

Harlie is a 9-year-old Weimaraner/Lab mix. Gail and George Sype adopted him at 8 months from Planned Pethood rescue in Toledo, OH. His 8-year “Gotcha” anniversary was December 24, 2017. “To say that we love our fur child, Harlie, to the moon and back would be an understatement,” said Gail. “He is quite the interactive dog.”

Harlie’s favorite AKC sporting event is tracking. George is a passionate tracker. On May 14, 2017, they earned a VST (Variable Surface Tracking title) at Lansing Obedience Training Club. It was an extra special Mother’s Day present for Gail, who was unable to attend because she was too weak after chemo and radiation treatments for cancer. “I remember getting the call that they passed the test. I was so proud of both of them,” said Gail.

They will continue with tracking by working on their TDX (Tracking Dog Excellent). Once this is accomplished, they will have achieved Champion Tracker – a goal they hope to reach by the end of this year. Getting into a TDX tracking event is difficult as often there are more teams than tracks. When this happens a lottery system is used. The Sypes are “keeping their paws crossed.”

Harlie loves people and especially enjoys entertaining an audience with new and old tricks. This makes him a great therapy dog. He is just 9 visits short of 100. Harlie achieved his Trick Dog Novice and Intermediate Titles last summer.

He enjoys doggy day care where he socializes and burns excess energy. Harlie and George have fun on walks and they demonstrate tracking to teams new to the sport. “I totally have fun with my boy in the house and in the backyard playing ball, Frisbee, training, practicing some Rally, and doing scent games,” said Gail.

Harlie VST