Hello, and question

[msbluprint]

Hello I would like some info on how to get started, are there any training meetings in the Sacramento area, or can we just enter an event and try there?
My girl jumps in the pool at home and has high drive we would like to get her into this soon.
I see there is an event at the state fair, do people just sign up and try, or will we be laughed out of there if she doesnt jump? lol And can we just go and practise? or do we have to ENTER the event???

[LoveOurLabradors]

The SplashDogs site has a great newcomers guide at http://www.splashdogs.com/events/Newcomers.php -- we read it several times in preparing for our first competition last year and it was very helpful. It covers valuable info like starting with the exit ramp so your dog gets comfortable with the pool and understands how to get out (as you probably did with your pool). There are also lots of tips from people on these boards -- just search to find previous threads on this topic.

Yes, just come to the event and try it there. There is practice time between "waves" so arrive early and try some practice jumps to decide whether you want to compete. Every event has newcomers and there are even veterans who have dogs refuse to jump at times. You will be in good company if your dog is intimidated by the 2' drop into an unfamiliar pool (one of mine is though she loves to jump into pools). Remember -- never push your dog off the dock!

Even if your dog just swims from the exit ramp, I'm sure you'll have a lot of fun and maybe get addicted like the rest of us! It's a casual and fun sport -- don't worry about lots of training before you come try it though it does help if you have a good sit/stay if you plan to have your dog do a big run and "chase" the toy into the water as you often see in dock diving videos. The SplashDogs staff and other competitors will be happy to help you to ensure you and your dog have a great first experience.

[msbluprint]

Thank you so much.. So do I pre enter? Or pay when I get there? And what types of "toys" do most people use, I think my girl will go after a tennis ball the best.
Also, since its at the state fair, does anyone know if there a special gate to go through or parking area? Not sure if they will let us in the front gates with our dog?
Im already getting nervous LOL
I show my girl in the UKC, she is a National Grand Champion, and was the #1 dog in the country last year, you would think I wouldnt get nervous any more, but each new event I get like this.:D

[LoveOurLabradors]

Yes, pre-registration makes less paperwork when you get there. Read through the event information at http://www.splashdogs.com/events/register/CaliforniaStateFair08-21.php -- it should answer most of your questions about entry information for practice/competition or switching. Gate folks recognize us SplashDogs competitors and always direct us to the right place -- I've never had any issues getting into an event.

Use a toy that motivates your dog -- many use tennis balls or variations (dumbells, etc). Wubba's are popular. I'm an oddity and use a frisbee since it's my dog's biggest motivator. One of our top dogs jumps after a rubber duckie so do what's right for your dog. The rules note exclusions about the toy, e.g. can't have been alive (no real fur or feathers).

Relax and have fun -- this isn't at all formal like a UKC show, but I think reading the info on the main part of the SplashDogs site will make you feel more at ease.

[Siberian]

Come out, come out :)

Most of the folks here came to an event just to practice. My dog didn't jump into the pool right away, and it took her few events to go in, but now she is leaping :) I promise, you will love it, and the environment at the events is the most friendly and lay back you will ever experience.

Entrance gate is usually noted on the registration page. In this instance, "Splash Dogs participants are to enter through the East Gate".

I would pre-register for practice, if I were you, so that you can have free entrance to the fair.