OkcPets Magazine March 2021

March/April 2021 • OKC Pets 33 Preparing for Competition Three months before the competition was scheduled, each owner and dog team received a list of tricks and cues that could potentially be incorporated into the show. It included every- thing from the basics of sit, down, coming when called, and stay, to jumping through a hoop, walking a balance beam and navigating a seesaw.  The only caveat was: no adverse training tools allowed, such as shock collars, choke chains or pinch collars. However, toys, food, treats, praise and anything else that motivates your dog was fair game. There is a good chance that most of these dogs and owners could do most of the tricks listed, but the variable would be the distractions on the course. The contestants were encouraged to not only learn and practice the list provided but get creative in introducing distractions while performing the tricks.  Meet the Contestants These are the four contestants vying for the title of Dog Games Champion. First up is Danielle Carter and her Golden Retriever, Kaia. Danielle is an adventure seeker who wants to prove that no dog should be left behind. Next, we have Christian Wirth and his red-nosed Pitty mix, Bella. Christian is an am- bitious trainer and handler at a nonprofit rescue and dog ranch. Our third contestant is Allison Swarts and her Anatolian Shepherd, Goose. Allison is a recent graduate of a dog training academy and eager to show off her moves. Last but definitely not least is Gary Stein, a general contractor, with his tough as nails road dog Boston Terrier, Bowie. Left to right: Style Judge Crystal Powell, Host KymWhitley and Expert Judge Travis Brorsen (with contestant Allison Swarts and Goose in the background) Judges and Host pose with contestants Allison Swarts and Danielle Carter