Agility Demo
An Introduction to Agility
A free dog sports event for SWCDP members
Since 2017, SWCDP has provided an annual agility demo, led by SWCDP Dog Sports Manager, Betsy Boedeker. To learn more about Betsy and her recent Blog Posts – check this out.
https://swcitydogpark.org/introducing-betsys-the-bark-side-blog/
Join us – either as a participant – or just to watch as Betsy provides guidance for each agility station.
Saturday
August 30
9:00am to 11:00am
Participant members must sign up for demo – we have limited slots. Each demo is 20 minutes with members in groups of approximately 6 dogs. Your pup will experience each agility challenge and Betsy will provide humans with helpful tips. Reserve you pup’s spot now.
https://www.signupgenius.com/go/10C0F4DA5AB28A0F4C16-58022130-agility
One dog per one human. Some members like to have another human with them as a back up – but this is not required.
Did You Know
Helpful info for those new to agility
Agility – What is it?
A popular dog sport that seems to be growing each year – with good reason. It is an amazing opportunity for excellent exercise for both dog and their human. The sport requires dogs to navigate an obstacle course with speed and concentration. At the AKC competition level – AKC has over a million entries annually. Competition level is not necessary for your dog – and you – to enjoy agility. At SWCDP we say go at your own speed, time, and interest. No pressure to perform – just have fun!
Agility – Why do it?
Because agility requires you pup to stay focused on YOU – you build strong teamwork. This strengthens the bond with your dog. The sport provides physical exercise and mental stimulation. Your dog must think thru each challenge and learn to stay focused on his human’s directions. Dog gains self-confidence, physical coordination, and pride in doing an activity in which pup has his human’s full attention. Agility builds trust and strengthens communication between pup and human. In some cases – the agility bonding and exercise often helps reduce stress and anxiety in some dogs – they now have a purpose – doing something fun with their human.
Agility – Is this breed specific / What qualifications required?
SWCDP agility course is for all our members provided dog is in good general health. We do not have any size, weight or age restriction – leaving it up to each dog owner to decide if the sport is right for their dog. We do like to point out that in agility competition there is usually an age requirement of 15-18 months because the long bones in puppies are still developing.
Agility – Benefits to SWCDP members
SWCDP agility course is open year round for members to use at their leisure. During grass cutting season, equipment is put up Monday late and put back up by Noon on Tuesday. The dog park is sometimes temporarily closed after a long rain to protect the turf. Also – SWCDP closes for turf and grounds renovation usually April and May. Otherwise, 6am to 10pm, SWCDP Dog Sports Center can be used by members on a rotation basis. Meaning, one family at a time, unless all parties agree to share the equipment together. Betsy’s Tip Sheet hard copy is on-site or available on line.
INSERT LINK TO BETSY’S TIPS 2025
About SWCDP Rules and SWCDP Dog Sports Center
SWCDP has a strict rule about no food, alcohol, smoking – and dog treats. However – we must trust member judgement when using the Dog Sports Center. ONLY bring a limited amount of treats as needed to work the agility course. Left over treats must be taken to the car – do not keep treats on Main or Alternate play areas. Many members do not want their dog eating treats for variety of reasons – health, weight, allergies, etc. Also – some dogs may be resource aggressive and treats can cause problems. This is not only a SWCDP rule but stipulated in the City Ordinance that allows us to use City property for our dog park usage. PLEASE FOLLOW THESE RULES.
Keep Gate Closed
At all times – the Dog Sports Center gate must be closed. Only dogs accompanied by an adult member may use the space. Absolutely no unsupervised dogs or children should be in the area. This is a designated space for dog sports activities specifically.
Future SWCDP agility events
Depending on member interest – SWCDP will offer agility training classes – both entry level and advanced. We currently looking at 4 week sessions in September, October and November – depending on member interest. Betsy will offer classes based on participant needs and offer SWCDP a discounted class rate….and donate partial fee to SWCDP as part of our fundraising efforts. Watch for email announcements.