Guide to pet agility competitions, events in Florida

Agility competitions are a fast-paced experience and can be quite exciting to watch. Owners guide their dogs as they navigate through an obstacle course that includes hurdles and tunnels.

According to the American Kennel Club, “Agility is a growing dog sport in the United States, with over 1 million entries to the AKC’s Agility Program each year.”

Click/tap here for more information on the American Kennel Club.

Dog-on-it Agility Club of Central Florida is an all-volunteer organization and a member of the United States Dog Agility Association (USDAA).

Dog-On-It Agility Club hosts agility competitions three times a year in Winter Park.

According to its website, Dog-On-It meets Tuesday and Wednesday nights at the Lake Island Recreation Center in Winter Park near US-17-92 and Fairbanks Avenue.

“You do not have to have a purebred dog to do agility. All dogs are welcome as long as they are physically fit and are not people or dog aggressive,” Dog-On-It Agility Club said on its website.

For classes, training and more information click/tap here: Dog-On-It Agility Club

But dogs are not the only furry creatures competing for a top spot.

Cat agility tournaments are held worldwide throughout the year. From Tokyo, Japan to Largo, Florida, cats are tested on their skills of speed, coordination and graceful movements.

Cat parents begin training their cats when they are kittens.

During the competition, cats must complete an obstacle course within a certain time frame.

Owners can use toys and laser points to coax their pet along, but food treats are not allowed.

Training a kitty to follow instructions is a tricky feat. Some cats finish the course within the allotted time, while others, in true cat fashion, decide to go on their own adventure and not finish the course.

For tips on agility training, competitions and event schedules, go here: The International Cat Association and International Cat agility Tournaments.

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