Making the big leap
I have always wanted my dogs to be able to catch a Frisbee. I wish. But, my little guys, two Poodles and a Mini Schnauzer are not the Frisbee-catching type. They chase tennis balls and like to carry small stuffed animals in their mouths, but that is about it. Oh, yes, they also like to bark at and chase cats that wonder into our garden.
And then there is the Alpo Frisbee Challenge wonder which has been around for a few years now. I covered the Alpo Frisbee challenge for two years when it was held in Boracay. It was hot, hot, hot. Not just for those who came out in the afternoon to watch the dogs, but, more so for the dogs, mostly
This year, Alpo has opted to link up with the Philippine Animal Welfare Society (PAWS), which will make sure that no harm comes to any of the doggies who will join the challenge. Oh, and yes, PetLife is the media partner for the event. And, even better is that the competition will be held on April 27, at the Music Hall of SM Mall of Asia.
The best Frisbee catcher for the event will go home with P15,000. The top prize will be given to the dog that can catch the Frisbee the most number of times that it is thrown to him in two minutes. PAWS has also scheduled a few fun games for the doggies who come out to watch, and their humans, too. There will also be a fashion show for the fashion pooches in the crowd.
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Here are a few Frisbee fun pointers from dog trainer and dog behavior specialist, Jojo Isorena.
Why teach my dog to catch a frisbee
Canine Frisbee makes full use of the dog’s natural desire to run, chase, and catch moving objects. It provides great exercise and mental stimulation which makes them happy and healthy dogs. And because it is a team activity, it develops a deeper bond between you and your dog.
What breed of dog is best for frisbee?
Any dog of any size can play Frisbee and there is no particular breed that has a monopoly of the sport.
What is important is a strong desire to chase and retrieve. Small dogs, big dogs, native dogs and mixed breed dogs can all excel with the right motivation and training.
Can my dog join the alpo frisbee competition even if he is not a purebreed?
Yes. A Frisbee dog does not need registration papers or a fancy pedigree. Many dogs that have succeeded in competition were former shelter or rescued dogs that normally tend to form stronger bonds with their adoptive owners.
What skills does my dog need to have to do frisbee?
Because canine Frisbee is played off leash out in a field, the dog must have had basic obedience training.
He must also be even tempered since he will be around other dogs. Dogs that have strong retrieval and tracking or chasing instincts will also do well.
My dog is already 7 years old. Can he still play frisbee?
As long as your dog is healthy and able to run, jump, chase and catch a disc, his age should not keep him from having fun with a frisbee!
What safety precautions are necessary to avoid injuries to my dog?
It is important that all dogs, regardless of age and physicality should get a veterinary check prior to doing any athletic training activity like Frisbee.
Like human athletes, they also need to be warmed up and stretched to help avoid injuries. It is also
important to always have drinking water available for your dog during training. Frisbee can quickly heat up a dog especially in a tropical environment so you must constantly watch for any signs of overheating.
