Rajah at North West Kent

[Joy]

I was surprised and delighted today when Rajah and I came first in L3 Rally at Ashford, scoring 200. Good luck played a part as we had the bonus exercise that Rajah really likes (sit, leave dog, turn, cue the down, walk back past dog, turn return to dog) but I was so pleased to have him focused and engaged after a couple of poor shows.
I think I'm beginning to understand that Rajah need not just gentle handling (whjich I've always known) but a completely calm approach. I think that trying to talk to him in an excited voice is counter-productive as it just makes him anxious. Today I was just very quiet and even kept my 'good boy' comments soft.
I only entered Rajah for one class as I've decided that perhaps he finds a whole day too tiring and overwhelming.

Last weekend I entered L3 and L4 with Tess. For the first time ever she was unfocused - but it is a very big and busy showground and it was her first entry at this level. We got 180 in L3 which is 'qualifying' but not 'excellent' but didn't qualify at L4.

 

[Jacqui-S]

Well done @Joy

 

[Jelinga]

How lovely @Joy, congratulations to you and Rajah.

 

[Loraseal]

I love reading your updates. Congratulations to you both

 

[Selina27]

Well done @Joy and Rajah !

It's always good to read your updates and evaluations of your shows.

Good luck played a part

And why not -- I think you deserve it!

It will be interesting to see if Tess settles to the "step up" in time.

 

[Cath]

Great work one and all

 

[kateincornwall]

Well done to you both xxx

 

[MellowYellow]

Well done, and particularly in finding out that Ralph needs calm encouragement in order to give his best. I know it's not easy to work that out, particularly not if everyone else is being a bit hyper!