Ruth got hooked on the sport of agility when she took a few classes in the basement of a local pet shop with a husky mix named Beaker. She soon rescued her first Border Collie and started competing in 2002. She has taught agility classes and privates for over 15 years. Ruth continues her own education in the sport by taking classes from some of the top trainers in her area as well as attending multiple seminars and workshops each year.
Ruth is obtaining her certification as a Canine Fitness Trainer through the University of Tennessee and FitPAWS. (Certification expected early 2018.) She offers privates and group classes to improve fitness and conditioning for any dog from family pet, performance athlete, to aging senior.
Another fun and active sport is Musical Freestyle. After many years of learning about freestyle, Ruth entered a competition and took first place in her division. She is currently offering introductory classes and hosts workshops.
Ruth's dogs hold multiple MACHs and have competed annually at the AKC Nationals since 2009. In 2011 she made it to the Finals at the AKC Invitationals with a friend's Labrador Retriever. In 2014 she reached the Challengers Round, missing out on a trip into Finals by a fraction of a second. In 2016 she made it to the Finals of the AKC Nationals where she placed third. She holds titles from USDAA, CPE, and WCFO Freestyle. She is also part of the agility staff at Camp Gone to the Dogs.
It's all about having fun, staying active, and enjoying the special bond created between handler and dog.