Dogs make great pets for children, and can teach them responsibility. But some young people take it even further, like this schoolgirl from England.
Violet Higgins, 11, is off to the Netherlands in May to represent Team England at the 2022 World Agility Open Championships, per Worcester News. She’ll be there with her six-year-old Terrier, Chase.
Four Years of Dog Agility Practice
It was only four years ago that the schoolgirl began taking part in agility training, an activity that tests both dog and human alike. But despite not yet being in her teens, she’s off to compete internationally with her pup.
Not only that, but the pair have also qualified for the Young Kennel Club individual and pairs classes at Crufts 2023.
Violet belongs to the Worcester Agility Club. Perhaps unsurprisingly, she’s the youngest member. She qualified for the international competition last summer at Team England tryouts, even beating adults.
And to qualify for the UK Agility Grand Finals last summer, they had to finish in the top ten of the junior league. However, when they got there, they won their class. They train together twice a week, and are sponsored by Reef Agility in nearby Stourport.
A “Really Special” Year
“Dog agility is a lot of fun and I’m really proud of Chase,” said Violet. “We’re training hard to show the rest of the world what we can do in The Netherlands and make Worcester and England proud of us.
“Going to Crufts is an added bonus and 2023 is going to be really special.”
Trainer Mariann Baylis said: “Violet has shown the dedication needed to reach such a high level in her first year of competing and thoroughly deserves her place both in the World Open and at Crufts.”
As dog agility isn’t classed as a sport, it doesn’t receive any funding. Due to this, Violet and her team are looking for sponsors, and are planning a number of fundraising events too. After all, there are entry fees and kits to pay for, as well as travel!
