GEORGE NEWS - The Garden Route Dog School hosted yet another lively event recently, drawing wagging tails and enthusiastic handlers from across the region for a rally obedience competition that celebrated teamwork, training and pure doggy delight.

For those new to the sport, rally obedience - often just called ‘rally’ - is a dynamic and engaging discipline that blends the accuracy of traditional obedience with the energy of agility. 

Unlike conventional obedience trials where handler/dog teams respond to judges’ commands, rally requires handlers and their dogs to navigate a course of 10 to 20 stations, each with a sign describing a specific task. 

These range from basic sits and downs to more advanced manoeuvres like spins, stays and direction changes - all performed with cheerful encouragement and praise.

Sue Mees and Toby.

It’s not only fun, but also a fantastic way to strengthen the human-canine bond.

The event offered a fantastic day out for competitors and spectators alike. From first-time newbies to seasoned Grade 2 teams, the atmosphere buzzed with excitement, focus and camaraderie. 

The spectators enjoyed an impressive showcase of communication, trust and even a few laugh-out-loud moments as the dogs showed off their personalities (and sometimes their own interpretations of the rules).

In the newbie challenge, seven dogs competed, with Torree and handler Aneri Roos earning first place and a rosette to add to their growing collection. 

Grade 1 featured 14 participants who tackled a longer, more complex course - where Toby and handler Sue Mees wowed the crowd with a perfect 100% score to clinch the top spot. 

Aneri Roos and Torree.

Tension rose as the Grade 2 competitors stepped into the ring. With trickier signs, a criss-crossing course, and a sharp-eyed (but fair) judge, this round demanded next-level teamwork. Rachel and handler Dewaldt Kleinhans took the pressure in their stride, delivering a standout performance that earned them first place - much to the relief of their cheering supporters.

If you missed the fun this time, don’t worry - another rally event is already in the works for later this year. Whether you’re a seasoned dog sport enthusiast or simply curious about what your furry friend is capable of, rally is a joyful way to learn, connect and become part of a warm and welcoming community.

Great team work by Dewaldt Keinhans and Rachel.

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