In this episode, Laura Reeves talks about things you can do to keep your dogs active and engaged. She starts off by talking to the founder of the Barn Hunt Association, Robin Nuttall. Barn Hunt is a quickly-growing sport that both AKC and non-AKC dogs can participate in. The sport focuses on testing the working instinct of vermin-hunting dogs, but all dogs are welcome to join in. Robin describes the rules of the game and how it has become a gateway sport for many dog owners - due to this, it's hugely important for Robin to make Barn Hunt a positive experience for both beginners and experts, and to encourage broader participation in the sporting world.
The best part of the Barn Hunt is watching how excited the owners/handlers get while watching their dogs have fun in this sport. If you'd like to learn more or want to know how you can participate, visit the http://www.barnhunt.com/index.html (Barn Hunt Association).
The next guest Laura talks to is Chelsea Murray, an expert in dryland mushing. Dryland mushing involves having a dog (or team of dogs) pull a human across a surface (other than snow or ice). This sport is great because you can participate in it year round, and it's great exercise for both humans and dogs. The barrier to entry is quite low, as there are many different ways you can participate: whether you're on foot running behind the dog, or being pulled on a bike. Chelsea discusses the required skills and training to participate in dryland mushing.
The final guest Laura speaks to is Jon Sarabia. Jon is a retired military dog trainer based in Missouri, who is now active in the scent work as a competitor and judge. Scent work is an event in which dogs are tasked with locating the sources of certain scents (in practice, these are usually different kinds of essential oils). This is a fast-growing sport in the dog world that allows dogs of all breeds to participate. Listen to learn more about how you can get involved!