I am a dog lover and would really like to go to some agility shows, only I don’t know how to go about it. I don’t want to enter as my dog is now 12 but I would really enjoy watching the dogs.

There is a wonderful web site about dog agility which lists all the shows throughout the UK (some of which are in your area, even in the winter when they are indoors) - it is www.agilitynet.com and if your go to the "schedules" section you can print off schedules and the directions on how to get to them.

You do not have to pay to come along and watch but (under Kennel Club rules) you are not allowed to bring your dog to the show venue, as all dogs need to be officially entered with the club that is running the show many months before the actual show date.

Agility Shows Diary also lists shows for next year. But the list is not fully completed yet as clubs have not yet sent in their dates and venues to the web site organiser. However, if you look at 2006 show diary you will have plenty of ideas as to where and approximately when the agility shows take place.

You may also like to look at the list of clubs section and perhaps offer to go along to a nearby club and help out with putting out equipment, putting up jump poles etc, and get to meet all those lovely agility folk. They are very friendly and are always on the look out for helpers both in training and at their shows. It is a great way of making new doggy friends.... :-)) I do hope this information is of help