When Nature Calls (Unexpectedly!)
When Nature Calls (Unexpectedly!) – What to Do When Your Dog Toilets in the Agility Ring
So, you've taken the plunge and entered your first dog agility competition for beginner handlers, perhaps even with a beginner dog at a dog agility show. You've practiced, you've walked your dog, given them countless opportunities to toilet before entering the ring, and you're feeling a mix of excitement and nerves. Then, it happens. Your beloved canine companion decides the agility ring is the perfect spot for a quick pit stop. Cue the immediate flush of embarrassment!
It's a situation many of us dread, but let us assure you, accidents do happen, even at dog agility competitions in the UK. Their nerves, just like ours, can get the better of them. We all know that fluttering belly feeling and the urgent need for the loo – our dogs are no different!
So, what are you meant to do when this embarrassing situation happens?
In the Moment: What to Do When Your Dog Toilets
The protocol for this, whether at a large KC show or our own Bee Happy IDA events, is quite similar:
Mark the Spot: The most crucial first step is to keep a note of where in the ring it happened so you go and stand where the pee or poop is. This is, of course, assuming your dog doesn't need catching first! If they do, don't worry, the ring party will be ready and willing to help.
Clean Up Crew: Once the poop is picked up (and trust us, a quick grab is always best!), or for pee, the area will need to be sprayed down with lots of water or a spray designed to cover the scent. This is incredibly important. We do this to try and prevent the next dog from getting distracted and thinking it's their local "mail point" – a very common reason for an unexpected toilet break!
Elimination: You will, of course, be eliminated from that specific run. Depending on the judge at a KC show, you may be asked to leave the ring immediately.
Our Bee Happy IDA Approach
At Bee Happy IDA, we have a slightly different approach. As we have smaller numbers, we are often in a position for you to continue the rest of the course, as long as you are mindful of how long it will take you to do so and the flow of the competition. We understand that every run is valuable experience!
Don't Be Embarrassed!
Most importantly, do not feel too embarrassed! This has happened to the best of us. As long as you gave your dog the opportunity to go beforehand, there isn't much else you can do. Their competition confidence will only grow with experience, and that will only happen if you keep attending and making sure your dog has a pleasant and rewarding time whilst at our shows. We're all about building positive associations with agility!
Upcoming Fun!
Anyhooo, our June show is ready to enter, and this one is shaping up to be a fab one as it's our first ever camping show! Imagine: an entire weekend of Bee Happy competing! If it proves popular, we will definitely be doing more in the future. We just need to see how it goes first.
I look forward to seeing you there!
TTFN,
Sian
Photo by Russ Jones on Unsplash