A profile of Mary Ann Wurst and Hijack
Tell us about your dog. Where did she come from?
Hijack (Jackie) is a five-year-old female Aussie from New Spirit 4 Aussie Rescue. The mom was a result of a farm surrender in Kentucky (the dad ran away from rescuers although we do have pictures). A friend fostered Lyna (mom) to experience whelping a litter. Jackie was the first born and the remaining nine were C section. Taking care of 10 puppies was quite the experience 🙂
How did you end up adopting her?
I had hip replacement surgery so was home recovering so she wanted me to come help socialize (they were all spoken for). I already had three dogs and no plans for another right away. At four weeks of age she would not leave me alone even when I played with all 10!! I went back again two weeks later and she pretty much told me I was hers. She arrived at eight weeks of age like she knew us already.
How did you get involved in agility with your dog?
I rode horses and was involved in three-day eventing. I was at Fair Hill and saw dogs doing agility (Dam team championships) in 1999. I asked some competitors about the sport and they introduced me to Elicia Calhoun who was teaching in New Jersey at the time. My three-year-old Aussie Cooper (another rescue) was the perfect candidate. We never looked back attending every nationals with lots of success. He was the 2006 veterans GP champion 22″.
Did you find that agility helped to improve any behaviors your dog had before you started? How did you feel it helped your relationship?
Agility requires teamwork and trust built over time. This means a more confident pet overall.
What’s something about your dog’s personality that you find unique/endearing/special?
Sweet, biddable and oh those eyes! Black bi Aussie with a tail. 🙂
What USDAA events have you competed in with your dog?
All – local shows, regionals and nationals with many podium placements over the years. And Hijack competed at the IFCS tryouts in October and is now a part of the 2017 Team USA going to Spain!
What would say to people who are considering adopting a dog who might want to do agility some day?
I would have the dog/ puppy evaluated for soundness and then go for it!