The spotlight shines on a beautiful young red dog who loves agility. Keavy is an Irish Setter who competes in the 20-Preferred class in the Agility League division of Regulation Sophomore and often is the top scoring Preferred Tall dog when League rankings come out. Her owner, Cheryl, has shared life with Irish Setters since the 1970s and run them in agility since the early 2000’s. She tells us more about life with Keavy.
Call Name: Keavy
Age: 22 months
Breed: Irish Setter
Registered name: Redfeathers Bee Dazzled NAP OFP
Owner: Cheryl White
City/State: New Haven, IN
Team name and division: Adventuretails Chasin Q’s – Regulation Sophomore
How did you decide on an Irish Setter and what about the breed appealed to you?
I worked for a veterinary practice in 1970’s, and one of our clients bred Irish Setters. I fell totally in love with the breed because of their elegant looks, willingness to play games, and their loving and sociable personalities. Keavy is my 10th Irish Setter, and she is as special as every one of the others.
What led you to start training her in performance and led you to agility?
In 2009 I met some wonderful people that competed in agility and decided that is the sport I wanted to pursue. Keavy is my fourth agility dog and my third agility Irish.
What is she like to train and compete with?
Keavy absolutely loves agility and is a fantastic teammate. She is very high drive, so it has been a bit of a challenge for me at age 71 to keep up with her. I am so thankful we have wonderful trainers that are teaching us distance training, and it’s working very well for us.
Does she compete in other sports?
Keavy and I are only training and competing in agility at the present, but who knows what the future will bring.
What is her favorite reward?
Keavy loves her favorite ball when we’re doing our training and loves any treats for a jackpot.
What do you like best about League and how has it helped your training?
Agility League has been a wonderful experience for both of us. It gives us the opportunity
to work in a trial atmosphere. The people are fantastic, fun and supportive and will give us some great suggestions on how to run certain sequences.
Future goals for Keavey?
My goal with Keavy is to have fun competing in agility, and who knows, we may even get a MACH or PACH in the future.
Any advice for people considering an Irish Setter?
Irish Setters are a wonderful breed. My advice to anyone interested in acquiring an Irish is be prepared for plenty of exercise, kisses and make sure you have extra-large couch and bed!