Working dogs go through their paces

By CHARLES W. JOHNSON Editor for the Southern Standard

Zeus, owned by Beverly Press, leaps nimbly over a formidable obstacle to return a hand weight to his handler. Zeus was among several working and sport dogs involved in the day?s activities.

The Humane Society of Warren County?s first Working and Sport Dog Show drew an estimated 300-400 dog enthusiasts this past weekend to the Bobby Ray Memorial Elementary field, along with 75-100 of their canine companions, to watch a variety of amazing demonstrations of the skills, services and benefits working dogs provide to our society. Humane Society president Andy Anderson said the group was pleased with the response from the community to the fundraiser, which brought in $1,200 through donations and concessions. The money will be used to fund local spay and neuter clinics.

?I think it was a phenomenal success,? Anderson said. ?Those I talked to said they really enjoyed it, and the ones I?ve heard from that didn?t get to make it this year said they hope we do it again next year.?

The event included demonstrations by the Warren County Drug Dogs, Chattanooga and Knoxville Police Dogs, Ed Bradfords Herding Dogs, Tullahoma Obedience Club, Schutzhund trained dogs, and Ann Huie?s Agility Dogs. Also on hand was John and Debbie Ivy?s seizure-alert dogs, a pair of beautiful gray ?wolves? who can predict their owner?s petit mal seizures, giving him the ability to prepare in advance and avoid a potentially injurious fall.

There were a number of fun and unusual contests for people and their canine companions. The winners of these friendly competitions were as follows:

? Cutest Dog, small breed ? Daisy, owned by Tammy Robinson

? Cutest Dog, large breed ? Sky, owned by Pam Merriman

? Best Costume ? Duchess, owned by Becky Peterson

? Best Kisser ? Heidi, owned by Gina Knowles

? Cookie Catch ? Samson, owned by Debbie Hill

Anderson says the Humane Society wants to thank everyone for their participation, with a special thanks to all the merchants who generously donated prizes, to Hot County 104 for the live broadcast, and to Bobby Ray Memorial Elementary for allowing the event to be held on its field.