A great weekend

As you can see from the picture, Blitz finished his Rally Novice title in style with 2 first places, scores of 98 and 99. He definately was more confident in the ring this weekend and on Sunday we were a very nice team together. Now it's time for me to watch him carefully for any adverse effects from the stress of travelling and showing. We'll take time off through Christmas and if he is healthy, we'll try Rally Advanced next year.
What I loved about the weekend: Blitz clearly had a blast. Moto turned in a great performance at the Sho n go. I have hope for us in Obedience.
What I hated: the stares. Blitz clearly is disfigured and odd-looking. I have his note from our vet stating it is a non-contaigious, non-communicable disease, that she has examined him and he is well enough to compete in dog shows. It lay on top of his crate all weekend in case anyone was curious. It is just going to be a fact of life and honestly, I'd stare too. I ignore the stares but will politely answer any questions as Blitz's presence is a good opportunity to educate people about DM. But still having people stare at your beloved dog is no fun.
We kept the momentum going and Moto and I began finishing up what we'd started on his scent discrimination work. He is really blazing along quickly. Now, I need to finalize what method works best for his directed jumping. He'd been running to a cot which worked great, but once he leapt on it and toppled, so now he doesn't want to use it. I turned the cot upside down and got good results (the sticking-up legs kept his turns tight and a good straight on entry). He can also go out to his favorite toy but I fear wide turns. Maybe later on, once he has good muscle memory. What is exciting is he understands the exercise and can also do the jumping too. But, all this requires a lot more work.
If he continues to make this wonderful progress we may try Rally next spring and see what we have in the ring. He may begin his career sooner than expected!