Dogs barked excitedly as they prepared to test their speed and agility Saturday at a North American Dog Agility Council-style fun run at Kukini Field in Mountain View.
Orchid Isle Dog Agility hosted the event, which allows dogs and their owners to race through an obstacle-filled agility course to practice. Owners can also submit their run to NADAC for titles and a chance to move up levels.
Kukini Field is managed and owned by Angelic Ebbers, who competes in NADAC events, judges runs and teaches agility classes.
“The field is set up like an actual test with criteria that can help people get credit for what they are doing,” Ebbers said. “The field is also open to novices who are teaching their dogs how to run through the course.”
Dogs take turns running through tunnels, jumping over poles and climbing up and down platforms as their owners run through the course and direct the dogs.
“This is good for dogs, but it’s good for people too,” Ebbers said. “It gives people a chance to be physically active, and helps build the connection and bond with their dog.”
Eileen O’Hara has been participating in dog agility for 15 years and teaches a beginners course through Kukini Dog Agility.
“This is my outlet, my escape from the real world,” O’Hara said. “It’s challenging, but so fun to bond with your dogs and see what they can do.”
Kristin Sciboucas started agility training five years ago with her dog Moby, who ran through the course quickly Saturday morning.
“When I came here the first time, it was kind of just a test to see if my dog would enjoy it and if it would give us something to do,” Sciboucas said. “Now we’ve been doing it for a while and love it every time.”
Kukini Dog Agility is accepting new clients for dog agility training at every level.
“We really are looking for new people who may be interested in trying this out with their dogs,” Ebbers said. “All dogs learn differently, but most of them enjoy agility training just as much as their people.”
Those interested in dog agility training can find more information at kukinidogagility.com or at oidahawaii.org.
“This is just such a great way to get outside and spend time with your dog, since there aren’t many outlets on the island for that,” Ebbers said. “It’s really fun to test yourself against the course and see if you can get better each time.
Email Kelsey Walling at kwalling@hawaiitribune-herald.com