Is your senior dog still active and full of oomph? Is your pooch still mentally alert and physically capable of enjoying exercise?
If the answer is yes, dog lover Marion McFall has a deal for you. She is hosting Old Dogs, New Tricks, a one-time afternoon of agility for senior dogs or canines with physical health challenges.
Old Dogs, New Tricks takes place on Saturday, May 14 from 2 p.m. to 4 p.m. at K-9 Awareness on Riel Drive.
At the immediate level, the event is an opportunity for two-legged and four-legged companions to hang out, learn new tricks, exercise and meet new friends.
“I wanted to create another opportunity for people to bond with their dog,” said McFall.
It is also a fundraiser for the Pet Food Bank of Edmonton, a charity that operates in Edmonton’s inner city from Boyle Street Community Services. It aims to help pet owners in need by providing food, litter, collars, leashes, blankets and other pet supplies.
In planning the agility, McFall spoke with Rylan Kafara, organizer at the Pet Food Bank, and learned the need for supplies is at an all time high.
“Due to the economic downturn, there are more people that need help in supporting their pets, people that have been laid off or people who use the inner city services,” said McFall.
A huge influence for this project was her now-deceased mini-schnauzer Sterling.
“She was really energetic and I wanted to do dog agility with her, but she was anxious around other dogs and eventually when she got older she went blind.”
Sterling passed away in March, however, 10-year-old Ruede (pronounced Rudy) will represent the McFall pack during agility trials.
Agility is often thought of as an intense sport performed by young agile dogs. Once a dog reaches its golden years, eight and over, it slows down or faces new challenges. It may lack energy, co-ordination, eyesight, hearing, attention span and possibly joint problems.
However, McFall notes that Old Dogs, New Tricks is not about racking up titles. In fact, professional dog trainer Kendra Vetters, of Choose Positive Dog Training, has lined up an easy-going circuit specifically created for older canines.
And yes, jumps, climbing obstacles, weave poles, tunnels and pause tables are part of the show. But the exercises will be geared to the slower moving animals.
St. Albert’s Jill Shantz will be the on-site photographer and all proceeds from a silent auction will be directed to the Pet Food Bank.
“We’re also encouraging donations of new or gently used animal items such as beds, toys, leashes and pet food.”
Registration deadline is Saturday, May 7. Entry fee is $30 for the handler with one dog and $10 for each additional family member.
Register at www.eventbrite.ca/e/old-dogs-new-tricks-tickets-24213347775 or call McFall for more details at 780-995-2689.
