FAQs

I don't know if I want to get involved in either sport, but my dog needs something to keep them active. Can I come by and watch?

We welcome all dog owners to come out and watch one of our evenings in progress and you can even bring your dog or puppies by to socialize with all the other dogs. Please let us know if your dog is aggressive towards people or other dogs.  The more we can socialize our own dogs when they aren’t working the better. We all need to have fun since they are also part of our family.

Does my dog have to be a purebred to participate in these sports?

Both Flyball and Agility are open to all dogs no matter their breed, including the “All Canadian” variety as they are called in Agility.

Can my child take training classes with their dog?

Yes they can, but the child must have control of the dog.  We also require that parents stay in the building while the lessons are taking place.  Parents or Guardians will be required to sign the child up for classes which includes a waiver before they are permitted to take the classes.

How old does my dog have to be to start Flyball?

Dogs can start basic training at any age, but cannot compete until they are 12 months of age. We recommend checking with your veterinarian to make sure jumping will not harm their joints if you are looking at training them before 12 months of age as the size of the dog can make a difference.

How old does my dog have to be to start Agility?

Dogs must be at least 12 months of age to participate in lessons. Dogs cannot compete until they are 18 months of age.  We recommend checking with your veterinarian to make sure jumping will not harm their joints if you are looking at training them before 12 months of age as the size of the dog can make a difference.

My dog is getting old, can he still learn Agility?

Yes, you actually can teach old dogs new tricks!!  It sometimes takes more motivation and treats, but it can be done.  We have had a small 11 year old dog go through our lessons and is now competing.

What should my dog be able to do before taking any training classes with your club?

Your dog should have had a basic obedience class and/or be able to sit, stay and come when called.  Although the beginner lessons are done on leash for Agility, we like to get dogs to sit and stay when they are not on the equipment to keep them focused on their owners during the lessons.

What will I be able to do once I have taken your Agility training?

Beginner lessons give both the dog and handler exposure to the equipment but not yet ready to take on an obstacle course. This will let you know if you and your dog are suitable for Agility. Intermediate lessons start to train the handler on how to go through the obstacle course and by the end of this set of lessons, dogs are ready to start trying out Fun Matches. Advanced lessons work on the more difficult handling moves that build speed into completing the courses.  Once you have been through our three sets of lessons, you and your dog should be confident in being able to compete at an AAC sanctioned match.

How much does it cost to take training lessons with your club?

Lessons are usually $10 per lesson and we usually do 6-7.  Also once you have completed our training, you are able to come to our general drop in which is $5 per night until you feel you are ready to enter the next level of your training.  If you become a member after six months of being a pending member, your drop-ins are free.

What does it cost to become a member?

The fee is $50 for a single membership and $65 for a family membership.  We require that you go through a “probation period” of 6 months to see if it is a good fit for the club and for yourself.  Dues are payable every year before our Annual General Meeting.

How often do you provide training classes?

Flyball classes are usually held once a year. Time of year depends on tournament schedules. Agility classes are held throughout the year.  Lessons are done on a first come first serve basis, so please fill out the Training Inquiry Form on our website if you are interested.  We currently have waiting lists for our beginner courses, but our Agility Co-ordinator may be able to find somewhere private for you to take lessons until our backlog is dealt with.