Fast CAT Introduction - Practice Run
Experience these fast-paced and exciting sports with your dog! Fast CAT is open to ALL breeds and mixed-breed dogs. Get Started Here!
Description
Perfect for beginners! Curious if your dog has the need for speed? Let’s find out in this exciting introductory session designed to give your dog a taste of the thrill of lure chasing!
In this beginner-friendly practice run, dogs will chase a plastic lure around a playful course set in the fully fenced, off-leash dog park behind The Dog Alliance.
Our instructor, Wendy Hodges, brings over 20 years of experience as a skilled AKC Hunt Master and lure operator. She has worked at the highest levels of the sport, including the AKC National Lure Coursing Championship—both as a competitor and a member of the field committee—as well as the ASFA International Invitational and Grand National. At every session, Wendy is joined by a couple of trained volunteers to ensure a safe, supportive, and fun introduction to the world of lure coursing and Fast CAT.
This is a low-pressure, high-fun way to introduce your dog to a fast-paced sport they may love for years to come. Let’s see how fast your dog can fly!
Session Details:
The layout changes with each session to keep it fun and fresh! While this isn’t a regulation Fast CAT course (which runs in a straight line), it introduces the same concept—encouraging your dog to chase and engage, helping you gauge their natural drive for the sport.
-
Each dog will receive two runs per session.
-
Runs are conducted one dog at a time for safety.
-
Dogs must be crated or secured in your vehicle when not actively running.
-
Flat-buckle collars only—no martingales, harnesses, or attachments allowed.
-
Please bring two leashes (slip leads are highly recommended) and water for your dog.
Special Notes for Newcomers and Puppies:
-
Our team will guide you through using a slip lead and catching your dog at the finish line.
-
First-time dogs or puppies (under 12 months) may run shorter distances
-
Puppy-friendly techniques like starting/stopping the lure and “puppy bumps” help build confidence and excitement.
Our goal is to keep the experience fun, safe, and age-appropriate!
Multiple Dogs:
Bringing more than one dog? No problem! Just remember, you can only run one dog at a time. Additional dogs must be crated in your vehicle and remain under control.
Prerequisites
Age of Dog: 6 months and older or instructor approval
Dogs under 12 months of age will be restricted to long straights or single turns. At the instructor’s discretion, a dog nearing the age of 12 months may be able to turn more than once, but only after an assessment of their age and physical conditioning.
Skills: Recall is highly recommended. Need, help, enroll in an Advanced Manners course.
Dogs should be healthy and in fit condition.
Please contact us if you have any questions!