Meet Emma Lloyd: Well on Her Way to a Dog-Filled Life
Name: Emma Lloyd
Age: 17
Hometown: St. Petersburg, FL
Grade: 12th
Family: Parents, Rebecca and Larry; sister, Natalie
Emma began training Spiderman, her All American Dog, several years ago. He didn’t take to training easily, but once he hit his stride, his eagerness to learn took them to the 2018 AKC Junior Obedience Classic in Orlando, FL. The team continues to compete in obedience and rally, and Emma also competes with her other dogs in Fast CAT, Junior Showmanship, and in the conformation ring.
AKC: How old is Spiderman and how did he come into your life?
Spiderman (Lloyd’s Spiderman CGC BN RI) is roughly 8 years old. Several years ago, we were visiting a friend in Alabama and she was fostering him until she could find a home for him. It was clear he had been living on the streets as he was very independent and didn’t really look to humans for information or direction. We decided to take him with us, and let’s just say he didn’t care for the long ride to Florida. In the beginning, he didn’t get along with our other dog. We had to keep them apart for several weeks; they finally became friends and got along from that day forward. I started obedience classes with Spiderman shortly after that.
AKC: What got you started in training and competing with dogs? Tell us about what dog training has meant to you.
I was invited to a 4H meeting by my best friend Genevieve; she knew I was working with Spiderman and thought this would be great help. I started going to the dog training club and Crazy for Canines 4H Club. In the beginning, it was very frustrating. Spiderman just didn’t understand what we were there to do. We went back week after week and finally he caught on. Although he didn’t like it in the beginning, when he figured out “how to learn,” he loved it and was able to learn new commands very quickly. We progressed rapidly and within the year we were competing in rally and obedience together. Now his tail wags the entire time he is in the ring.
Dog training has taught me tremendous patience and improved my sequencing skills. Training Spiderman became a big motivator for getting my schoolwork done early so we could attend classes during the week. I love the bond we have, and we have a great time in the ring.
AKC: Is your family involved in dog training/showing?
No. I am first in my family to show and train dogs. My mom attends most of the shows with me, and my family gives me lots of support and encouragement. I would love for my mom to show dogs with me in the future.
AKC: What sports does Spiderman compete in and what are his titles/honors has he earned?
He competes in obedience and rally currently. His titles are Beginner Novice, Rally Intermediate and Canine Good Citizen.
AKC: Tell us about any other dogs you have.
I have a Toy Manchester Terrier, Sunkissed Tell it Like it Is, call name “Deacon.” Deacon competes with me in Junior Showmanship, and I am currently the number three Toy Manchester junior in the AKC. Deacon also competes in Fast CAT and is currently the number two Manchester for 2019 and number eight in lifetime rankings. I also co-own two dogs that I show in breed and juniors: A Borzoi and an Australian Shepherd. I have been very blessed to have the trust of AKC breeders and handlers who so graciously share their beautiful dogs with me.
AKC: Do you own any “non-dog” pets?
No other pets.
AKC: What are your goals in the sport of dogs?
I would like to show AKC purebred dogs professionally as well as specialize in a breed and become a breeder.
AKC: Do you plan to do something animal related as a career?
During my first three years of high school I attended a technical school for part of my day and worked to earn certification as a veterinary assistant. I passed the state exam at the end of my junior year. I plan to stay involved with dog training for my dogs as well as teach classes to others. I have been an assistant at the dog club for puppy classes and advanced rally classes. I am sure my career will include working with dogs. I plan to continue in veterinary medicine when I start college.
AKC: What extracurricular activities are you involved in addition to dog sports?
I love to read mystery novels; James Patterson is my favorite. I also love taking nature photos with unusual vantage points. I like going to the movies with my friends and relaxing at home with my dogs.