Belle's Story
by Belle's Dad, Werner
06/24/03:
Belle is starting to pick up on agility. She is extremely bright. She is going through the tunnel without a leash and she also is going over some jumps. See the attached pictures. I place 3 jumps next to the fence and then put the tunnel on the other side of the jumps to form a channel. I also have her walking up the A-Frame and the dog walk with a short tab leash that I hold her with. She jumps through the tire with a leash. She is really very good at Frisbee. I throw the Frisbee as far as I can and she always gets it and catches it. She is out running Scottie to the Frisbee (black and speckled white) who out runs Max (brown & white).
She is a very happy and sweet girl and I love her a lot already. I plan to take her to a trainer in Marietta, GA for an agility lesson and to help me set up a plan for her training. Steve Frick (the trainer) is an international agility competitor. He has been in the World Games and many national events. I think Belle can be a top agility performer because of her speed, intelligence and quickness. However, the first and most important thing is that I want her to have a happy and good life. Agility is secondary and is a good way for us to bond. She follows me all around the house. She slept in my bedroom last night with all the other dogs without being in a crate or X-pen.
I throw her squeaky toys till my arm falls off.
We have been doing agility every morning for about 10 minutes and every evening for about ten minutes. I use the Frisbee for reward and motivation. I have to make sure she doesn't get overheated. She is a tireless athlete.
I thank you for the wonderful care you have given Belle. I feel blessed and privileged to be able to adopt and care for such a wonderful Border Collie.
Well, that's it for now. Best regards to you both,
Werner
Belle with her foster parents Martie, Toby and baby Nolan
Belle with Martie, Toby, baby Nolan, and dad Werner