Riding in Cars with Dogs

May 27, 2009 -

As I sit here, trying to work while rambunctious little red rascals wrestle at my feet (two of my puppies have come to the office for a visit), I got to thinking about how many ways there are to enjoy your dog. I did a walk around the building with my little ones this morning (an obligatory maneuver if you bring puppies to the office) and so many people asked me questions about what I do with my Vizslas?

My answer? Anything and almost everything. One of the aspects I love about dogs is that they get such great enjoyment from being with their people. Any time I see a dog traveling in the car or going for a walk I get a huge smile on my face that is only surpassed by theirs. I firmly believe that dogs like riding in trucks the best. They're clearly happiest when they're out enjoying their families.

My local Vizsla group, the Rio Salado Viszla Club, has a large assortment of activities for Vizsla lovers to get out and play with their dogs. I personally love doing agility type events with my dog, Rosso, though I haven't gotten into it as much as I'd like to. It's something that I'd like to get into more, especially because I see how much Rosso loves it. There's something about that big, goofy red dog happily bounding through tunnels that makes me feel guilty that I don't take him more. Camping is a big one for me, too.

Most breed clubs offer obedience training and trials, canine good citizen events, specialties, etc. They also often have activities geared to the specific traits of a particular breed. For example, the Vizsla clubs have hunting tests (Vizslas have strong instincts for hunting and finding birds), and versatility -  which is a combo event showcasing the Vizsla's talents from conformation, obedience and hunting. 

I learned about clubs and activities in my area for my dog's breed from the AKC. I found it to be a fun way to meet other people that have similar interests and love their wacky red dogs as much as I do. There are lots of great websites out there to help people connect and find activities they can enjoy with their dogs, including the Mixed Breed Dog Clubs of America and communities sites like this one (check out the member message boards for things like sports and agility. 

I actually just got an email from my club about a neat event happening in Arizona next week that I'm going to try to catch. It's the Flagstaff Canine Performance Day. It sounds like a blast, with all dogs welcome. They're showcasing agility, musical freestyle, Frisbee, lure coursing and lots more. It's a great way to find out more about fun things to do.

Now excuse me, I've gotta tangle with this adorable twosome!

~ Shana