Hi Emily~

I am totally new to dog sports too, and started doing stuff with my current golden, Bella. Bella just turned 2 on Valentine's Day.

She and I achieved her Rally Novice title at last year's GR National in St. Louis ~ that is the farthest I've ever traveled to compete. Under normal circumstances, I probably wouldn't go that far for a Rally trial, but wanted to attend the show to support my conformation & hunt dog friends who were competing too. I also plan to attend this year's national, which is much closer to home in Texas.

Bella and I had only been to 1 Rally match, and then went to one show trial where she received her first two legs. Our scores weren't top notch, and I'm sure if we had practiced a bit more and done some more matches, we would've been ready to earn higher scores. That show was only about 2 hrs away, or so.

Bella and I have moved on to competition obedience and we are training towards her CD. I think I want to try for not only just the title, but for really good scores this time. I'd be willing to travel up to 4 hrs I think. I am trying to do more matches too, for practice.

You will have sooo much fun! I know I have. Meeting new people, going to new towns, learning new things, bonding with your dog. It's all just wonderful, and I am excited for you!!

From one newbie to the next: GOOD LUCK!!!

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Kimberley

Thank you everyone for your replies! I have additional questions on titles & the different levels, but I think I will start another thread for that

Cool! And thanks, my Fishie is a sweetheart. Paula is great
Melbourne is a GREAT spot for dog training, although there are not many trials actually in Melbourne. There are many good people who do agility there, and obedience in either Daytona or a little bit south (Indian River -- definitely check them out!). If you want to email you privately I can give you some contact info of people I know there, although Paula is probably just as good a resource as I am. I am in Gainesville, there are very few trainers in my area so I train by myself and end up traveling a lot.

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--Anney
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anney@k9-design.com

Anney, thank you! I'll send you a note

Kristy - I got your PM, but I don't have the minimum posts yet to be able to respond LOL. I will as soon as I can. Thank you!!