September 12 through the 14th were the International Dog Sports (IDS) National Championships. Our dogs Hazel and Vixen qualified for nationals this summer in their horizon jump divisions. We are lucky that K-9 STAC of Rapid City, SD are a host facility for IDS events. They are located only 15 minutes from our house, making practicing and travel easy.
It was a cold morning when I arrived at K-9 STAC around 6:30am on Saturday. Cala, the chihuahua and Vixen’s best friend, was along for the ride and was not impressed with the cooler weather. We should have backed her a jacket or sweater!
Dogs started jumping a few minutes before 7am and Vixen was the second dog out for the first round.
She was quickly up and started off with a jump of 5’9″. Hazel jumped towards the end of the group and landed at 17’11”. She has jumped 19′ in the past but did not make it to that distance at this competition. For round two, Vixen jumped 6’2″ and Hazel was consistent with 17’11”. Vixen had just jumped her new personal best! This achievement really pumped Tylee up and she was very hopeful about being called back for the finals bracket. And she made it back! Sadly, Hazel did not make it to the final round.
There were three rounds for the finals bracket. On her first jump, Vixen beat the competing dog but feel slightly short in the second bracket, landing in third place. Everyone cheered to hear Vixen place! With excitement, Tylee and Vixen ran back up onto the dock to receive their ribbon. Here at Twisted Sisters, we are so proud of Vixen and placing 3rd nationally for the lap comet division.
Overall, it was such a fun weekend watching all the dogs jump and cheering them on as they fly through the air. K-9 STAC has built a wonderful facility and dog community. Everyone is always supportive of each other and cheering other handlers and dogs on. We are so blessed to be able to be a part of what they have built!
