Library to host dog agility program

WEIMAR – On Friday, July 21, at 10 a.m., the Friends of the Weimar Public Library will offer a free program on dog agility performance followed by tips to help teach attendees how to help their dogs follow their commands.

The library said Michelle Stokes, national agility trainer and competitor and her dog, Texas, will demonstrate an actual agility competition presentation followed by tips that can help pet owners and their children train their dog. The library said children will also be able to learn that training a dog takes consistency, patience, and grace.

Stokes has been training dogs since she was 13 years old, according to a release. The library said Stokes is a Weimar native, who started competing in dog agility at 19.

Over the years, Stokes has attended the American Kennel Club Agility Invitational three times, has qualified for AKC Agility Nationals twelve times, and has competed for the United States Agility World team tryouts, placing in the top ten percent, according to a release. Currently, Stokes competes with Texas, a BorderPap, in UKI agility trials across the nation and is set to attend the national competition in Jacksonville, Florida later this year, according to the library.

The library adds that training a dog to play games can help get everyone outside and more active, improving the physical health of the entire family.