Judge

Donna Staivecki,

Orefield, PA

Trial Chair                                                                Trial Secretary

Coleen Mrakovich                                                   Marilyn Bradley

1346 Bair Road                                                        824 Kingsway Drive

Bainbridge, PA                                                         Lancaster, PA   17601

717-367-8787                                                           717-898-1905

Caninecompanions1@comcast.net                     RUFFAgility@comcast.net

                                                                                   

 

Please, no calls after 9 p.m.

 

Entry & Move-ups

This trial is open to pre-entry and day of trial entries if limit has not been reached. No pre-entries will be accepted after the closing date 9/01/08 at 6 p.m.  Entries are limited to 350 runs per day.  All entries must include the dog’s DOCNA registration number.  You can register your dog on line at www.docna.com.  You will receive an e-mail confirmation with your dog's number immediately.  Incomplete entries (including incorrect entry fees) will be returned.  Checks will be processed as entries are received.  If you choose to express mail (although we open by postmark date only) your entry you must check NO SIGNATURE required or your entry will be returned.

 

If the trial fills prior to the closing date, a wait list will be maintained by the postmark date on the envelope.  Preliminary confirmations will be EMAILED for those exhibitors providing a valid & legible email address.  If you do not have an email address and want a preliminary confirmation please enclose a self-addressed stamped postcard or envelope.  Otherwise, all final confirmations will be EMAILED or MAILED after the closing date. 

 

Changes to the class level may be made until September 3, 2008 at 6 p.m.  Requests must be received in writing to Marilyn Bradley, 824 Kingsway Drive, Lancaster, PA 17601 or emailed to RUFFAgility@comcast.net.  Notice must include the dogs DOCNA number, dog’s name, handler’s name, current classes entered and what classes need to be moved up one level.  You will receive an email confirmation that your request for changes has been received and processed.

Agility Obstacles

The following is a list of obstacles.  

Dog Walk                   Closed Tunnel                     Winged Jumps         Weave Poles           

Open Tunnel                        Teeter-Totter                          Non-Winged Jumps                       

A-Frame (slats)         Double Jumps                      Triple Jump

 

Measuring & Check-In

Measuring & check-in information will be included in your final trial confirmation, which will be emailed, if possible, or mailed after entries close.  DOCNA is still new so area please be patient as most competitors will be asked to check-in and get measured or show a permanent height card.  Measuring and check-in will ONLY OCCUR during the times listed in your final confirmation.

DOCNA Class & Level Descriptions

Class & level descriptions may be found on the DOCNA website at www.docna.com.

DIVISIONS

Competition Division

The Competition Division is the most demanding division for both the dog and handler.   The division Jump heights are 8”, 12", 16", 20" and 24" and double jumps may be used at the Intern level and double and triple jumps may be used at the Specialist level.  This division is also the most demanding in terms of standard course times in each event. Entry Eligibility - Any physically capable dog over the age of 15 months may enter the Competition Division.

 

Select Division

The Select Division is somewhat less demanding than the Competition Division.  Jump heights are reduced to 4”, 8", 12", 16" and 20” in the Select Division.   No Double Jumps.  Standard course time for the Select Division will be 15% more than the Competition Division standard course times in each event. Entry Eligibility - Any physically capable dog over the age of 12 months may enter the Select Division.

 

Veteran Division

The Veteran Division is for those dogs that have reached 7 years of age, but are still physically capable of doing competitive agility or dogs being handled by anyone 60 years of age or older.  Jump heights are 4”, 8", 12", 16” and 20" in the Veteran Division.  No double or triple jumps may be used.  Standard course time for the Veteran Division will be 20% more than the Competition Division standard course times in each event.  Please see rules at www.docna.com for special circumstances for jump heights called *Veteran Dog Opportunity.

Entry Eligibility - Any physically capable dog 7 years old or older or any physically capable dog that is handled by a competitor that is 60 years old or older may enter the Veteran Division.

 

Grand Veteran Division

The Grand Veteran Division is for those dogs that have reached 10 years of age, but are still physically capable of doing competitive agility or any handler 60 years old or older handling a physically capable dog 7 years old or older. Jump heights are reduced to 4”, 8", 12", and 16" in the Grand Veteran Division.  Competitors/handlers entering the Grand Veteran Division must choose to jump their dog at least 4 inches lower than their Select/Veteran jump height.  Standard course time for the Grand Veteran Division will be 25% more than the Competition Division standard course times in each event. Entry Eligibility - Any physically capable dog 10 years old or older or any handler 60 years old or older handling a physically capable dog 7 years old or older may enter the Grand Veteran Division.

 

Junior Handler Division

The Junior Handler Division is geared towards encouraging younger handlers to be involved in the sport.   Jump heights are reduced to 4”, 8", 12", 16" and 20” in the Junior Handler Division.  No double or triple jumps may be used.  Standard course time for the Junior Handler Division will be 20% more than the Competition Division standard course times in each event  Entry Eligibility- Any physically capable dog handled by a competitor who is between the ages of 7 and 16 years of age may enter the Junior Handler Division.

 

While we generally believe that 7-8 years of age is the optimal age for a handler to start competing, we also recognize that there are some exceptional kids who may be ready to compete earlier than 7 years of age.  Competitors who are younger than 7, but have titled a dog in another venue may also enter this division.  In addition, any parent/guardian who feels strongly that their child is ready to compete may contact DOCNA (www.docna.com) and provide information on age of child, training that their child has done, experience of their child, experience of the child's dog, etc, and DOCNA will review the situation and approve on a case by case basis.   Juniors (ages 7 and older) may compete in other divisions and will be given same SCT as posted.

 

Physically Challenged Dogs

Physically Challenged Dogs mainly includes, but is not limited to, canine amputees, visually or hearing compromised dogs. Our primary concern is for the safety of the dog.  We acknowledge that canine health encompasses both the physical and the mental aspects of life. Physically challenged dogs that may otherwise be in good health and that display the desire and ability to safely execute required obstacle performances are welcome to enter and compete.

Entry Eligibility:

Canine amputees should acquire a letter from their veterinarian stating that the dog is capable of competing in agility and that the dog will not likely suffer any long term affects above and beyond what might be normal for dogs that engage in this sport. The letter should be available on request for view by the judge or trial committee.  A judge and/or trial committee reserves the right to excuse/dismiss a dog from competition that appears to be in obvious pain or discomfort and/or to designate that a dog be limited to specific classes and/or be placed under a jump height restriction.  The owner of the dog may appeal a judge's/appointee's trial decision to the DOCNA offices for a binding ruling.

 

DOCNA supports the desire of these dogs to play in agility and allows these dogs with the opportunity to earn qualifying runs and titles, but placements are not appropriate in this category.  Dogs competing at a jump height lower than the official jump height for their size may not achieve a placement over a dog jumping at its correct jump height.

 

For Physically Challenged Dogs competing in the correct division and jump height that have visual or hearing challenges but have demonstrated the ability to perform at a higher level by either having competed in another venue or have completed training that establishes the team as safe to compete physically at a higher level are approved to compete in the division that they are eligible for and will compete with dogs in that Division and Height.

 

Disabled/Handicapped Designation

Dogs On Course in North America, LLC is providing a special designation for disabled/handicapped exhibitors.  Such exhibitors will be allowed extra time for qualifying purposes only.  There will be a place on the entry form to designate this category.  When entering as a disabled/handicapped handler, it is required that you enter all events with this designation.  Dogs entered with handlers in this category will still be placed with the dogs jump height.  The best time/most points will always place higher.  DOCNA trusts that only exhibitors who have documented medical conditions will enter this category.

 

Disabled/handicapped handlers will receive additional time in titling events.

 

 

Levels

Beginner

The Beginner level is the first experience level in all divisions. Its purpose is to offer a successful experience and a reasonable level of challenge for the beginning dog.

 

Within each division and titling event, the Beginner level is open to any dog that is at least 12 months old who has not recorded a qualifying round in the Specialist level for that titling event.  Dogs may move back one level but not two (you cannot move to beginner level in any titling event after achieving a qualifying round at the specialist level in that same titling event).  Dogs may not move up to the Intern level until they have earned a certificate of merit (title) for that titling event (exception is the experience grand-fathering clause if applicable).

 

Intern

The Intern level is the middle experience level in all divisions. Its purpose is to offer challenges that demonstrate dog responsiveness on obstacles and competitor confidence with a variety of handling techniques at a greater rate of speed.

 

Within each division and titling class, the Intern level is open to any dog that has earned a certificate of merit (title) at the Beginner Level for that titling event and is at least 15 months old. Dogs at the Intern level may move back one level to Beginner if it is desired. Dogs may not move up to the Specialist level until they have earned a certificate of merit (title) for that titling event (exception is the experience grandfathering clause if applicable).

 

Specialist

The Specialist level is the top experience level in all divisions. Its purpose is to offer **advanced** agility challenges that require a variety of handling techniques and demonstrate dog and handler teamwork at the highest rate of speed.

 

Within each division and titling event, the Specialist level is open to any dog that has earned a certificate of merit (title) at the Intern Level for that titling event and is at least 15 months old. Dogs at the Specialist level may move back one level to Intern if it is desired, but they may not move back more than one level (to Beginner).

 

Jump Heights & Measuring

Owners are responsible for entering the proper jump height division.  Measuring will be from 3pm to 5pm on Friday and 6:30 to 7:30 on Saturday and Sunday.  Dogs entered requiring measuring must be available for measurement BEFORE 7:30 am.

Any dog that measures within ½ inch of their jump height cutoff will require an official measurement by the show judge of record in order for the dog to be allowed to compete unless the owner/handler can show that they have completed the requirements of the measurement form or obtained a permanent height card from DOCNA.

 

All measurements Are at the withers	11” & under	14” & under	18” & under	22” & under	Over 22”
Competition    Division	Jump 8”	Jump 12”	Jump 16”	Jump 20”	Jump 24”
Select Division	Jump 4”	Jump 8”	Jump 12”	Jump 16”	Jump 20”
*Veterans  Division	Jump 4”	Jump 8” or the Handler may choose to Jump  4” and be placed with 4” dogs”	Jump 12” or the Handler may choose to Jump 8” and be placed with 8” dogs	Jump 16” or the Handler may choose to Jump 12” and be placed with 12” dogs	Jump 20” or the Handler may choose to Jump 16” and be placed with 16” dogs
**Grand Veteran      Division	Jump 4”	Jump 4”	Jump 8”	Jump 12”	Jump 16”
Jr. Handler Program Up to Age 16	Jump 4”	Jump 8”	Jump 12”	Jump 16”	Jump 20”

 

There are five (5) jump heights in the Competition Division; they are 8”, 12”, 16”, 20”, and 24”.

Select, *Veterans, and Junior Handler’s Divisions jump heights are 4”, 8”, 12”, 16”, and 20”. Grand Veterans jump heights are 4”, 8”, 12”, and 16”.  (see full rules at www.docna.com/rulebook.htm)

 

Handler’s may always choose to jump their dog higher, but will be placed and have the Standard Course Time (SCT) of the dogs in that higher height. The following heights are not available to move up to in DOCNA jump heights: Select 24 inch, Veteran 24 inch, Grand Veteran 20 inch and Jr. Handler 24 inch.

 

If a handler chooses to have a dog jump higher than his measured/registered jump height the equivalent Competition Jump Height for that new chosen height is used.  For example a dog measured to run 16 inch in Competition runs 16 in select instead of the usual 12 -- the SCT used will be the SCT for the 20 inch height.  (Measured Competition Division Height + 4) SCT + XX% (Division) = time

 

If a handler chooses to have a dog jump lower than his measured/registered jump height as allowed in Veterans only, the equivalent Competition Jump Height for that chosen height is used. For example, a dog measured to run 16 inches in Competition runs 8 in Veterans instead of the usual 12 -- the SCT used will be the SCT for a 12 inch dog. (Measured Competition Division Height - 4) SCT + XX% (Division) = time

 

 

Description of Events being offered

 

Standard Agility Event - Standard Agility will challenge the handler /dog team with both work away sections and close proximity handling challenges. The handler/dog team must demonstrate the ability of the team to perform a variety of obstacles on the course while working as a smooth functioning team. All obstacles must be performed without fault and the team must meet the Standard Course Time requirements of the division and level.

 

Jumpers - Jumpers is an opportunity for the dog and handler team to maneuver through a course of jumps at a very fast pace.  The only obstacles on a Jumpers Course are JUMPS.  Jumpers Courses will challenge the handler /dog team and have both work away sections and close proximity handling challenges.

 

Traditional Gamblers - Traditional Gamble is an event that allows the handler/dog team to plan their own course, obtaining points along the way for completing obstacles up to 2 times each successfully for the specified opening period of time.  At the end of the point accumulation period, the dog must successfully complete a work away challenge (gamble) at the required distance for level and division, and then stop the clock for time.  The handler/dog team must be successful in both parts of this event to qualify. 

 

Strategic Time Gamble - Strategic Time Gamble is an event that allows the handler/dog team to plan their own course, obtaining points along the way for completing obstacles up to 2 times each successfully. There are two (2) parts to this event, a point accumulation period (opening) and a strategic gamble period (closing); the handler plans a course that will allow the dog to cross the finish line at as close to maximum time without going over.  The handler/dog team must be successful in both parts of this event in order to qualify.

 

Snakes N' Ladders - Snakes N’ Ladders is a strategic game that has tunnels, contact equipment and weaves. The weaves requirement at the beginner level includes 3 sets of 5- 6 weave poles. At the Intern and Specialist Level the competitor is required to perform 1 set of 10-12 weaves, and 2 sets of 5-6 weave poles. The handler strategically plans their course, with the goal being to complete all the contact and weave obstacles and cross the finish line as quickly as possible.  All dogs must start at the Beginner level in the Snakes ‘N Ladders.

 

Trigility - is a team strategy game that tests the agility ability of the 3 members of the team to complete 3 types of agility on a regular agility course.  The goal is to complete all 3 courses in the shortest amount of time and to have one team member successfully complete a mini gamble test.  Competitors may team up with any handler/dog team at their Level (Beginner, Intern or Specialist) regardless of Division.  Placement jump height is determined by the Competition Division height of the tallest dog on the team.

All dogs must start at the Beginner level in Trigility.

 

When entering Trigility, keep in mind that it is a team sport and as a competitor, you have an obligation to run and not let your teammates down by training in the ring or by scratching except in the event of an illness or injury.   By entering this class, you are agreeing that your dog is reasonably proficient enough in agility to be able to negotiate a 9-10 obstacle sequence on a beginner level jumpers or standard course with two other dogs/handlers in the ring with you.  You also understand that if you enter as a draw, you may be running with a dog and/or handler that is brand new to the sport of agility.

 

North America Challenge Event – Championship Qualifiers - The North America Challenge Event will be the standard for qualification into future championships.  This is a special agility run that is scored under the same rules and SCT as Standard Agility with the exception that off courses are judged as elimination.  North America Challenge Events will be more technically challenging courses.  Each course will include 1 set of 10-12 weaves and may include an additional set of 5-6 weaves for all levels.  In addition, courses may include the performance of 4 contact obstacles, multiple side changes, and additional discriminations.

The North American Challenge is a special event which gives the handler and dog team the opportunity to compete in the DOCNA championships in 2008.

 

For anyone entering the North American Challenge, Dogs that are competing in Standard Agility at the Elite Level in NADAC, Masters in USDAA, Excellent in AKC, etc, must enter the North American Challenge at the Specialist Level in the Division they are choosing to run in Competition, Select, Veteran, Jr. Handler or Grand Veterans.

 

All other competitors should enter at the Intern Level (this includes beginners).

The North American Challenge is a special event which gives the handler and dog team the opportunity to compete in the DOCNA championships in 2009. 

2009 Championships Qualification Criteria

The 2009 Championships are planned for a location in the Eastern and Western United States in October of 2009.  Current and future championship information and updates will be posted to http://www.docna.com/Championships.aspx.

 

In order to qualify for the 2009 DOCNA National Championships event, competitors will be required to earn one (1) North America Challenge qualifying round with a maximum of 12 faults (or less) between April 1, 2008 and August 3, 2009, and in addition they must have competed in a DOCNA Sanctioned Trial between Aug 1, 2008 and Aug 3, 2009. 

• Off Courses will be judged as elimination, the handler may finish the course.

• The cutoff date for qualifying for the 2009 championships is August 3, 2009.

 

 

Awards

 

RUFF Agility will offer Ribbons for First through Fourth place in each class for each jump height class.  NAC Ribbons will be awarded for First through Third Place.  Ribbons in the DOCNA colors of Red, White and Blue will be offered to every dog obtaining a qualifying score.   Ribbons will not be mailed.

Directions - www.caninecompanions.info

 

DIRECTIONS TO THE TRIAL SITE

 

From the Philadelphia and the East:  Take the Pennsylvania Turnpike west to the Reading/Lancaster exit.  Follow signs to Route 222 South.  Follow 222 South to Route 30 West.  Take Rt. 30 to Columbia/441 Exit.  Follow 441N for 12 miles.  You will pass Marietta, Donegal Schools (on left), Armstrong (on left), Bainbridge.  When you see the Uni-Mart on your left, you are about 1 mile from your right turn.  Pass Amosite Road on right and next road is Governor Stable Road (Kings Mobile Home Park on left).  If you pass a golf driving range on your right you’ve gone too far.  Turn right onto Governor Stable Road.  Go .6 mile on Gov. Stable Rd.  Turn right onto Bair Road.  Go .3 mile to Mrakovich house on left.  (Mailbox is a green rubbermaid box.)  Follow driveway past house and down hill to park.

 

From Harrisburg and North:   Use Rte. 283E toward Lancaster/Middletown.  Take the next exit - Harrisburg International Airport/441 south.  At the split, bear left onto the airport exit.  Take the next exit to PA 230 - Highspire/Middletown.  At the traffic light, turn left.  At 2^nd traffic light, turn right.  Turn left at the stop sign and continue straight on this road; 441S.  Travel on Rt. 441S for approximately 7 miles.  You will pass Three Mile Island.  Look for mileage sign for Bainbridge in 4 miles.  Go 2 miles.  (.4 of a mile past the golf driving range on left.)  Turn left onto Governor Stable Road.  (If you drive past the Kings Mobile Home Park, you have gone too far.)  Go .6 mile on Gov. Stable Rd.  Turn right onto Bair Road.  Go .3 mile to Mrakovich’s house on left.  (Mailbox is a green rubbermaid box) Drive past house and continue down hill to park.

 

From the West:  Take the Pennsylvania Turnpike to the Harrisburg East Exit.  Follow signs for Route 283 East.  Once on Route 283 E, follow directions above from Harrisburg.

 

From the South:  Take Route 83 North to Route 30 East.  Follow Route 30 E to the Columbia/Marietta Exit (Route 441).  Follow 441N for 12 miles.  You will pass Marietta, Donegal Schools (on left), Armstrong (on left), Bainbridge.  When you see the Uni-Mart on your left, you are about 1 mile from your right turn.  Pass Amosite Road on right and next road is Governor Stable Road (Kings Mobile Home Park on left).  If you pass a golf driving range on your right you’ve gone too far.  Turn right onto Governor Stable Road.  Go .6 mile on Gov. Stable Rd.  Turn right onto Bair Road.  Go .3 mile to Mrakovich house on left.  (Mailbox is a green rubbermaid box.)  Follow driveway past house and down hill to park.

 

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HOTELS NEAR TEST SITE   (that are pet friendly)

 

Days Inn Middletown                                   Red Roof Inn Harrisburg South

800 Eisenhower Blvd                          950 Eisenhower Boulevard

I-76 PA Trnpke Ext 247 & Rt283                    Harrisburg, PA

Middletown, PA 17057 US                             1-717- 939-1331

http://www.daysinnhia.com/

 

Holiday Inn Express                                     La Quinta Inn

610 Walton Avenue                                        990 Eisenhower Boulevard
Hummelstown, PA 17036                               Harrisburg, PA   17111
1-717-583-0500                                              1-717-939-8000

 

 

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Notice to Exhibitors

Exhibitors, through submission of entry, acknowledge that they are knowledgeable of DOCNA rules and regulations, including, but not limited to, the following rules regarding entry:

·         All healthy, trained dogs over twelve (12) months of age & registered with DOCNA are eligible to compete in DOCNA agility trials. Registration should be sent to DOCNA prior to the opening date of this event.  All entries must have a DOCNA dog registration number or they will be returned.

·         Competitors will find a copy of the current Exhibitor’s Rule Book on the DOCNA website, www.DOCNA.com.

·         This trial is open to all dogs being at least twelve months of age, (dogs under 18 months – please read rules of eligibility) including purebred and non-purebred, except bitches in season, dogs suffering from any deformity, injury, or illness that may affect the dog’s physical or mental performance, or dogs exhibiting signs of aggression toward people or other dogs.

·         Collars will be permitted on the course (please read rules); however, for safety reasons competitors are encouraged to run their dog without a collar.  No food, toys, tents, crates, or other aids or devices shall be permitted within 10’ of the ring.

·         Safety shall always be of foremost consideration at all times.  Handlers, through entry at this event, accept full responsibility for themselves and the actions of their dogs.

·         The organizing committee may refuse any entry on the basis expressly provided through DOCNA Rules & Regulations or guidelines established by DOCNA.  Anyone not currently in good standing with DOCNA will not be allowed entry into the trial.

·         THERE SHALL BE NO REFUNDS for entries withdrawn after the closing date or in the event a dog and/or handler are dismissed from competition, regardless of the reason for such dismissal.  An exception will be made for injured dogs or bitches coming into heat after the closing date.  These refund requests must be received by the Trial Secretary in writing on or before Friday, September 5 at 6 p.m. All such refund requests must be accompanied by a dated, signed letter from your veterinarian stating the reason the dog cannot compete.  A refund of 50% of the entry fee paid will be made in these cases.  Also, no entry fee will be refunded if the trial cannot open or be completed for reasons of riots, civil disturbances, fire acts of GOD, public emergency, an act of a public enemy, or any other cause beyond the control of the organizing committee.  A $5 fee will be assessed for all refunds.

·         The trial is held outdoors on wood carpet.  Please come prepared for the weather.

·         Crates and tents may be left overnight at your own risk.  The management, DOCNA, Canine Companions or RUFF Agility will not be responsible for the loss or damage to any dog exhibited or in the possession of any competitor whether the results of accident or any other cause.

·         A warm-up area with a single practice jump and 6 weave poles will be provided for exhibitors.

·         Any competitor whose dogs and/or children create unnecessary disturbances or repeatedly engage in unsafe or disruptive behavior may, at the discretion of the Show Committee, be asked to leave the show site.  In such case, no refund of fees paid will be made.

·         All dogs must be leashed or crated except when being judged or in the designated warm-up area. All dogs are in the care, custody & control of his owner or handler during the entire time the dog is on the show premises.

·         Entries for exhibition only will NOT be permitted.

·         Returned checks do not constitute a valid entry.  Any person whose check is returned for “insufficient funds” and/or otherwise a “bad check” will not be allowed to participate in this event until FHA is reimbursed in cash, money order or cashier’s check for the amount of the said check, any and all fees incurred by FHA and a $25 returned check charge.  Please note that all entry fees will be deposited as your entry is processed and accepted.

·         Canadian competitors must remit fees in US Funds via International Postal Money Order or check from an account using “US Funds” with US Funds clearly written on the check.

·         Handlers are expected to clean up after their dogs at all times and in all places.  Failure to do so at the show site or at your accommodation site can result in dismissal with no refund.

·         All phone calls initiated or returned regarding questions on entries will be returned collect.  We will try to respond via e-mail first and then via phone.

·         DOCNA rules are available from DOCNA at www.DOCNA.com

 

 

 

 

  OFFICIAL ENTRY FORM

RuFF Agility

DOCNA Sanctioned Trial – September 6 & 7, 2008

Opening Postmark Date July 21, 2008 Entries close 6 PM , September 1, 2008 Early Entry Deadline: Received by Ausgust 22, 2008

Return this completed form with entry fees (payable to Canine Companions  to:

RuFF Agility c/o Marilyn Bradley, 824 Kingsway Drive, Lancaster, PA   17601

Owner/Handler Information

Name

Handler (if other)

Address