ALISON Copland, 12, has recently been awarded for her top training efforts, getting to spend many hours with man’s best friend.
For three years, she has spent most Sundays at Kerang’s Nancarrow Park where she had trained a range of dogs.
Having put in the hard yards, her efforts were recently recognised when she was awarded the ‘obedience senior level pass’ medal from Jacqui Pay’s Dog obedience and training sessions.
“I just love dogs and playing with them, but I’m very proud of myself for being able to effectively train Molly, even though she isn’t mine,” Alison said.
“We used to have a dalmatian named Hodge in our family, but he passed away, so I began attending the sessions because I missed being around a dog.”
Each weekend, Alison makes the most of the training session.
“I can’t continue with the training at home, because Molly stays at Jacqui’s property, so I spend as much time with her as I can on the weekend while at training,” she said.
Alison has trained Molly to sit, stay, walk and turn corners on command, as well as ensure trust between the handler and dog.
Kerang and Lake Boga dog obedience trainer Jacqui Pay told the Gannawarra Times that the medal couldn’t go to anyone more deserving.
“You don’t get these medals very easily,” Ms Pay said.
“Alison has worked her way up very quickly and I could see she was very passionate about Molly,” Ms Pay said.
“To get an adult, let alone a 12-year-old, to train a dog really effectively is not an easy thing to do.
“It all comes down to the hard work, repetition and dedication Alison puts in.”
Hoping to get a whippet dog breed for her family home soon, Alison also hopes to work with animals, particularly dogs, in the future.
As for now, Alison’s next hurdle for dog training will include off-lead commands and agility exercises.
“I’m a bit nervous about the next stages, because I want to do a good job, but we’re a good team,” Alison said.
“She loves her treats, so I think we’ll have a lot of fun together.”
Ms Pay believes Alison’s hard work will also translate to other young people in the Gannawarra community.
“Alison is the first here at the oval and she’s always there to help others, so I have no doubt she’ll be great at the next level,” Ms Pay said.
“She’s such a good role model for young people and we’re all very proud.
