TOPEKA, Kan. (WIBW) – Some local dogs are sniffing their way to the “top” this weekend.
Mission Creek Camp and Retreat Center hosts the Topeka Kennel Club Fall Scent Work trial. This canine sporting event is not a typical agility test, but rather puts the dog’s senses to the test.
The trial kicked off its three-day weekend at the 187-acre Mission Creek RV facility located in Dover, KS. The event runs Friday through Sunday, with each day beginning at 8 a.m. and ending at 4 p.m.
Kelli Bausch, is the owner of Camo Cross Dog Training and Grooming, and is also the president of the competition.
“We organize three events a year. It’s our fall. We are delighted to have the dogs here again. says Bausch,
In this event, the dogs participate in several courses that test how quickly they can find the pre-hidden objects. These items carry a stamp head soaked in a variety of essential oil scents. Each dog has 2 minutes and 30 seconds to complete the tasks, and each time he finds an object, his dog must alert him by sitting, barking or scratching.
Many dog owners enjoy competition, not just for rewards. Christy Dartar and her multi-breed dog competed on the first day of trails. She loves spending every second teaching Junior new tricks.
“I guess I would say there’s no reason not to try it. It’s fun and it’s easy, you can practice at home. “I think it makes the relationship between you and your dog happier. You have something productive to do together,” Dartar said.
Although only members of the Topeka Kennel Club are eligible to compete, Bausch says she has plenty of room for anyone willing to volunteer, learn more about the sport, or anyone who just wants to see what the dogs do best, use their noses!
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