On a cold gray Saturday the testing went off with a definitive success. 38 dogs had pre-registered, 36 dogs actually tested and 27 of them passed.
Before the testing began, the lead tester Carl, when through each testing station explaining the expected behaviors and how the station was scored. He showed how the dog's stress level is supposed to build through the series and that it is not a "good/bad" measure, but rather a management tool for working responsibly with our dog's individual personalities. And to show us ways to change the techniques we use to work with our dogs.
Some of the dogs even demonstrated for us the exact response needed for the work it does rather than the usual response of the breed to an aggressive person. That would be a combination of socialization and training work with the right personality for the job they chose. The whole testing scenario was fairly impressive.
As our chief tester Carl, was taxied to the airport on Sunday he said "I think that went quite well." And we would have to agree with him.
For additional information see the following web site of the ATTS organization
Our special thanks to Leslie and Janice for managing the event. To Denise, Vickie, David and Mary Ann for food and set-ups, and Dwayne for blinds and assistance.
For Questions or Updates, Contact PCOTC