Applications are invited from Heelwork to Music and Freestyle handlers wishing to be considered for Team GB at the European Open Championships. The European Open, unlike the World Championships, is open to all dogs, including those on the Activity Register without pedigrees. However to be eligible to be considered, dogs must currently be competing in Advanced classes in HTM and/or Freestyle, and must possess a Pet Travel Scheme Passport which is valid until at least 30th October 2016.
Handlers may apply for the HTM team, the Freestyle team, or both. At the Championship, team results will be based on the team's aggregate of individual scores from a competition in the morning, and individual results will be based on combined scores from both the morning and an afternoon Individual Final round. The competition will be held indoors on carpet; full rules can be found online.
Applicants should be aware that the team will be on an entirely self-funded basis, and that being on Team GB is hard work and time consuming. Costs are likely to be in the region of £600 to £1,000 per dog and handler. Handlers must therefore be prepared to organise and attend fundraising events as well as attending team meetings and training sessions.
Handlers wishing to be considered should request an application form from Suzy Mamouzi, Working Dog Activities, The Kennel Club, Clarges Street, London W1J 8AB, by email or telephone 01296 318540 ext 314.
The deadline for completed applications to reach the Kennel Club is Friday 8th July 2016.