The first ever Shelter Dog Olympics is scheduled to take place as part of AKC's Louisville's Kentuckiana being held on March 19. Actually the Shelter Dog Olympics is taking place the 19th but the show is a multiple day show going on all weekend. The idea behind the Shelter Dog Olympics is that former shelter dogs can show the general public what they can do. They are slated to perform in Obedience, Agility, and an anything goes category called "American Fido."
The hope is that this event is well received by the community and depending on turn out and feedback more AKC shows will offer the Shelter Dog Olympics competition. Hopefully things will go well at the Louisville show and within a few months we see these events at locations all over the US.
Here's how you can take part:
Any rescued or adopted dog over the age of six months with a current rabies vaccination is eligible to compete in the Shelter Dog Olympics. Each of the three events was designed to be completed in three minutes or less and provide fun for the dog, its owner, and the spectators. Dogs can be entered in just one, or all three events. The entry fee of $5 per event will be donated to the shelter or rescue designated.
There will be a gift for all dogs who enter to take home with them and special prizes for the winners!