P.O. Box 3581
Hickory, NC 28603
CATAWBA VALLEY OBEDIENCE CLUB
TRAINING - CANINE GOOD CITIZENSHIP - THERAPY DOG INTERNATIONAL
Demonstrating that the dog, as a companion to man, can be a respected member of the community.
The Catawba Valley Obedience Club offers a variety of training techniques structured to fit the needs and goals of the individual. In addition to classes, the club sponsors and supports various social and educational activities throughout the area. Training classes offered include, but are not limited to Basic Obedience and Puppy Kindergarten. Classes in intermediate and advanced obedience, clicker training, agility and rally are offered periodically.
Testing for AKC CGC (Canine Good Citizen) and Therapy Dog International (TDI) are held at least once a year. All classes are on Thursday evenings at the Neill Clark Park Recreational Center.
The American Kennel Club, "AKC" offers a variety of events, including Agility, Canine Good Citizenship, Conformation, Earthdog, Lure Coursing, Obedience, Rally, Tracking and a Junior Handling Program. You can visit online for more event information. AKC
The United Kennel Club, "UKC" offers a similar variety of events, including Agility, Conformation, Dock Jumping, Hunting Programs, Obedience, Terrier Racing, Weight Pull and Juniors events. Visit online for more information. UKC
Whatever doggie interest, there's a good chance one or both clubs have a competition to your taste and style. Spayed bitches and neutered males are eligible to participate in designated events. Mixed breeds with an AKC Canine Partners Listing Number can participate as indicated. See the Beginner's Guide on the AKC web site for more details.
TRACKING: Training your dog to track is simply - honing his natural ability to distinguish the scent you want to follow. Tracking can be fun, and at the same time, very useful to the community. Your dog an participate in tracking competition and/or go further and train for Search & Rescue.
CGC: The AKC Canine Good Citizen Program is a fun way to demonstrate your dogs good manners and you as a responsible owner. All dogs are welcome to participate. There are ten (10) areas that are tested and your dog must pass all ten to be certified. CVOC offers a four (4) week course with the 4th week being test night. The three classes familiarize you and your dog with the areas of the test. CGC is required by some insurance companies for coverage under Homeowner's Liability. The ten-step requirements for the CGC demonstrate basic principles of obedience and are also required for all therapy dogs.
TDI: Therapy Dogs International is one of the certification programs required for all Certified Therapy Dogs. Therapy dogs visit, but are not restricted to nursing homes, schools, hospitals and libraries. They work with autistic children, the reading impaired, and many other physical and mental challenges.
