Claire set up her dog agility training club over 10 years ago and sees between 70-100 dogs and their owners every week.
Tell us about your job and what it entails?
Dog agility is the fastest growing canine sport in the country.
It is essentially an obstacle course for dogs, with a series of jumps, ramps, tunnels which the dogs go over, under and through. At Melton agility we offer a wide range of classes; from puppy foundations to competitive classes for dogs & handlers who want to compete. All levels & grades are catered for.
Dog agility is a competitive sport / hobby and we encourage people who are keen to compete to enter local competitions. However not everyone wants to compete & we welcome people who just want to come and spend an enjoyable hour bonding with their dog.
Melton Agility is a really sociable, friendly and supportive club and a wonderful way to earn a living! I’m very proud of all it stands for.
How/Why did you get into it?
I have always worked in animal related jobs starting off as a veterinary nurse, then managing boarding kennels and a grooming salon.
Later, I started to teach animal care and management and realised I loved teaching Dog agility was my hobby & something I enjoyed doing with my own dogs. When people started asking me for help to train their agility dogs, I decided to set up Melton Agility club.
What do the dogs get out of agility?
Most generally fit and healthy dogs can take part in agility and most love it. Some breeds are naturally more suited to it than others.
Dogs bred to work like collies & spaniels need to use brains and bodies and also tend to be the most competitive.
Agility is also a really good bonding experience to share with your dog.
It helps with general obedience and it’s fun to learn a new skill together.
What are your top tips for pet owners?
Choose a breed of dog to suit your lifestyle and choose activities to enrich that dog based on their needs. Some dogs are bred to be companion dogs, some are bred to work their brain, use their noses or run & pull a sledge.
Take this into account when you choose your dog
Behavioural issues and bad habits can arise if dogs become bored or frustrated.
Ideally find a really good trainer (obedience and socialisation trainer) – early on. Get your puppy used to to it’s environment and take it out & about & join a good puppy class. Exposing your puppy to different experiences and reinforcing positive behaviours from the start will make both your lives better and ensure your dog can live happily as part of your family.
How can getting the right food help?
In my opinion the correct nutrition plays a massive role in both the physical & mental wellbeing of your dogs. I did a lot of research to help my own dog Seren who used to get very over aroused. I found that Green Pantry kept her fit & healthy with lots of energy for agility without her getting over excited. All my dogs eat Green Pantry now as part of their daily diet and all of them are doing well on it.
