Alabama Earthdog Weekend!

This weekend was a big Earthdog weekend. On Friday, the Alabama Working Terrier Association(AWTA) had their Earthdog event in Fairhope, AL. Mark and I were in-disposed on Friday but Winston's Aunt Becky took him the trial on Friday. It was a big first step for us and Winston since we have never had Winston attend an event without us! We were all nervous! Winston was a perfect gentleman Glen but he did not make it into the the den to see the rats. He gave a valiant effort though. One caveat AWTA has that AKC events do not, is that the dog must be carried to the start line. This was interesting for our friend who handled him, as she is used to her miniature dauxies and not a 40 pound Glen!

Mark and I took Winston back Saturday for the Alabama Border Terrier ED events. Wow! There were lots of Borders! We also found out that Winston had made a rather "large" impression! We had a few attendees tell us that they had helped "lift" Winston on Friday!

It was a perfect day for a outdoor event. The weather was spectacular and there were lots of eager doggies.

Winston made it to the rats and engaged them in the intro to quarry class. 

Mark encourages Winston to work the rats and praises him as Judge Kim looks on. 

Winston and Mark await the awards. 

Judge Kim awards Winston with his IQ qualifying ribbon. 

Winston says "I love rat chasing!"

After the IQ, we tried Winston in Junior Earthdog--there were two opportunities.

Winston had the drive.

Winston really wanted the rats but he did not enter the tunnel on his first attempt.

One his second attempt in Junior, Winston DID enter the tunnel....

But he did not want to make the first turn. 

Winston showed great enthusiasm for the event but we need more tunnel practice!

Winston had a lot of company with dogs who also did not want to enter the tunnel. In the Junior class 29 dogs were entered and only 6 Q'd.  We had a great day outdoors with Winston and we know that we our own ED tunnel and rats at home to get more practice!