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| I think I may
want to show my Jack Russell; can you tell me what to expect
at Terrier Trials? |
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| Jack Russell Terrier Club of
America (JRTCA) Terrier Trials are fun-filled action-packed
events attended by all kinds of Jack Russells and the
wonderful people who love them. Trials are not only a
chance to compete with your Jack Russell, but they also
provide opportunities to meet other Jack Russell
enthusiasts.
There is something to interest every member of the
family at these trials.
For breeders, the Conformation Classes provide a
valuable opportunity to see breeding stock from around the
country, as well as a way to measure the progress in their own
breeding programs.
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| The various performance
divisions such as Go-to-Ground, Racing, and Agility are always
well filled, and provide a wonderful physical and mental
outlet for terrier and owner alike. Many trials offer a
special Youth Division—a great way to encourage youngsters,
who are after all, the future for our breed. You can find more
information about these trials, including a schedule and
details about the various events on the JRTCA Web
site. |
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| What
kind of preparation is required in getting ready for
trials? |
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| You must be a member of the
JRTCA to compete at sanctioned trials. If you’re not already
a member, you can join the day of the trial. For any of the events,
your terrier will need to be comfortable on a leash and be
well socialized so he won’t feel overwhelmed by the large
number of terriers and people found at trials. Most terriers
absolutely love the atmosphere of excitement that is the norm
at trials. |
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| In the Conformation Classes,
your terrier will need to know how to trot in a straight line
and stand still on the end of the lead so the judge can
evaluate him. A
treat in your hand or pocket works well to keep him looking
alert and interested.
During the individual examination, the judge will need
to check your terrier’s bite, span the chest, and confirm the
presence of two testicles in the case of a male. Prior to showing your
terrier, make sure it is accepting of this type of handling by
a stranger. I
handle my puppies |
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day, every day, and recruit any visitors we may have to do the
same. By the time
they are old enough to show, they are comfortable approaching
a stranger and stay relaxed while being
handled. |
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If your goal is to compete in
Obedience or Agility, it’s a good idea to enroll in a
class. These
classes are readily available in most areas. Agility especially is
becoming a very popular sport. |
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Many areas of the country have
local affiliate clubs that offer a schedule of Jack Russell
“Fun Days” throughout the year. These Fun Days
frequently offer schooling in Racing and Go-to-Ground and are
a great way to learn the ropes. They are usually
designed with teaching and practice in mind rather than
competition. |
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| Even if you have never been to a
trial, don’t hesitate to attend and plan on participating with
your Jack Russell. You’ll find that most
terrier people are happy to help. |
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| What sort
of equipment do you need for dog
trialing? |
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| One of the nice things about
going to trials is that you really don’t need to invest in
lots of expensive equipment to participate. You should have a
crate for your terrier.
The days can sometimes be quite long and he’ll need a
place to rest comfortably. You’ll need to bring
dog food and water from home. For really hot days, a
crate fan is greatly appreciated by your terrier. Don’t forget the
baggies for clean up after your pet! |
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For Conformation Classes you
will need a collar and lead that do not interfere with the
judge’s ability to evaluate your terrier properly. I use a thin chain
link martingale style collar and a thin leather lead. I like the way these
collars “disappear” into the terriers fur, presenting a
natural appearance and allowing the neck to be seen to
advantage. I have
also seen some thin leather buckle style collars that look
nice. Avoid big
thick nylon collars, as these will interrupt the clean line of
the terrier’s neck. |
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| A muzzle is required for Racing,
and the plastic basket type is strongly recommended. For this event I
recommend a collar that can easily be snapped on and off when
the terrier is in an excited state. You will remove the
collar as you place your terrier into the starting box and
replace it as the “catchers” return him to you at the finish
line. This type
of collar is also useful when competing in Go-to-Ground. It is recommended that
collars be removed before releasing the terrier into the
tunnel. |
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| What are the
costs involved to participate in Terrier
Trials? |
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| Entry fees usually run between
$8 and $15 per class.
Pre-entry rates are generally $8 - $10, with the higher
rates being charged the day of the trial. Depending on how far
you have to travel, you may need to plan on the cost of a
hotel and meals. |
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