Recently Bindi and I attended our AKC Fast CAT tests and we had a blast! I had no clue what to expect going into it so I thought I would share what we learned to help out others who are new to the sport but thinking of trying it.
So what exactly is Fast CAT? Fast CAT is a coursing ability test where the dog chases a lure (aka bag on a rope) down a 100 yard straight track. The lure is also referred to as "the bunny." Someone holds/releases your dog at the start line (this can be a friend, someone you know at the test or the club will often have volunteers to assist) and releases your dog to chase the lure with the call of “Tally Ho”. Then you (or someone you ask) catches your dog at the end once they cross the finish line. Dogs are awarded points based on their miles per hour and if they qualify for a multiplier because of their height. You can find additional information on points and calculations in the AKC rule book.
Here are some tips for attending your first tests.
1. Inspection
Before your dog runs, they will be required to go through a quick "inspection." Here you will gait your dog up and down and one of the volunteers will evaluate your dog to make sure there are no signs of lameness. If your dog is a female, you will need to wipe their butt with to show they are not in season. This applies even if they are spayed. Note inspections need to be done before EACH run so if the club is offering two runs per dog, you will need to go back and be re-inspected before the second run.
2. Don't Forget to Check In
Once your dog has passed inspection, you need to check in your dog. This lets the volunteers know your dog is here and ready to run! It will also give you an idea of where you are in the running order if they have one. Things can change with the running order to accommodate multiple dog handlers, volunteers, etc. so don't assume if a preliminary running order was sent out ahead of time it will be completely accurate when it's time to run. Each club handles check in a bit differently so watch for information from the secretary and/or check the premium to make sure understand what the expectations are.
3. Runs Go Quick
A well-run Fast CAT test is like a well-oiled machine. It goes quick so make sure you are keeping an eye on the running order if the club is using one. You will want to have your dog at the start line and ready to go a few dogs before it's time to run. Remember, you need time to get to the end of the track to catch your dog too!
4. Don't Forget to Bring Two Leashes
Since someone will be holding/releasing your dog at the start and you need catch your dog at the end, you will need two leashes.
5. Make Sure Your Dog Sees/Hears You
While many dogs catch on to chasing the bunny very quickly, your dog may be a bit confused as to what is going on the first couple times. It is okay to say your dog's name, jump up and down, wave your hands, etc. BEFORE the Tally Ho call so the dog knows you are at the finish line. You want to make sure you are not using any toys, noise makers or treats to get their attention though. These can only be used after the dog crosses the finish line (see below.) Some clubs offer an opportunity for people with first time dogs to have you walk/run down the track to the finish line while your dog is being held at the start line. This helps then focus forward and get a visual of where you will be. I did this with Bindi her first run! Please note AKC is reviewing allowing people to walk down the middle of the track in fall of 2022 so please check for any updated rule changes on this in the future.
6. Don’t Accidently Step Across the Finish Line and Onto the Track
In the excitement of the moment, it can be easy to focus on the dog and forget where you are. Make sure you don’t accidently cross over the finish line and onto the track!
7. You Can Run Too
Yes you read that right. After the finish line there is a “run out” area so dogs can get back down to speed after running full out. Once your dog starts down the track, you can also start running into that run out area to help motivate your dog to move even faster! This can work out great for dogs that don’t have a strong interest in the bag on a rope but do like to do recalls at home.
8. After Your Dog Crosses the Finish Line You Can Use Toys & Treats to Catch Them
Many dogs get super excited to run down that track and when they get to that bag they want to catch/kill it. Hence you are allowed to bring toys and treats in to catch the dog once they cross the finish line. Make sure these items are put away and it is clear you are not using these until your dog passes that finish line! I brought Bindi’s tug treat pouch and put it in my pocket to make sure I didn’t use it to motivate her to run without realizing it.
9. The Bling
Once your dog successfully completes a run, you will want to head over and collect your dog's qualifying ribbon and pickup any title ribbons/rosettes they earned.
Currently it takes 150 to earn your BCAT, 500 points to earn your DCAT and 1,000 points to earn your FCAT. Each subsequent 500 points earns your dog another FCAT title (FCAT2, FCAT3, etc.)
10. Photo Opportunities
Some clubs have photographers and they can capture some incredible photos so watch for information via email and at the test. Rebecca's Dog Photos captured the awesome actions shots of Bindi I am sharing in this post.
Some clubs will also offer areas with props and such for you to take photos with your dog after their run(s.)
11. Have Fun!
Above all else have FUN with your dog! Regardless of the outcome, you get to spend time with your dog and friends. Life is short and you never know when the last time you will step to the line with your dog is. Just two days after our first Fast CAT trial, Bindi was stung by a bee/wasp and went into full anaphylactic shock within minutes. Fortunately, I live just a few miles from an emergency vet and was able to get her there quickly for treatment. She was in critical condition with a guarded prognosis but, after two days in ER and two more weeks of recovery at home, she bounced back and made a full recovery.
Here is Bindi's BCAT title run. It was HOT this day so she was not running as fast as she usually does but she was so happy to be back out and running after having to take some time off to recover from her shock event. Thanks to my friend Elizabeth for releasing her for me.
I hope this helps you to enjoy your first trial more and stress a little less. Happy running!
*This information is accurate at the time of writing this article. Please refer to the AKC's Rules and Regulations for the most up to date information.
