It's a dog's life... and lovin' it!

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We want to know about the ways you enjoy life with your dog.

Australians love the companionship their dogs provide! Nearly 40% of Australian households have a dog and owners report a range of benefits from their relationship with their four-legged friends.

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The results of this survey will be published on www.i-pet.com.au in September 2008.

Lure Coursing – Your dog will love you for it

Is your dog a “Sighthound?”A dog that chases game by sight rather than smell? For example – Afghans , Borzois , Irish Wolfhounds , Italian Greyhounds, Deerhounds , Salukis , Whippets and of course, Greyhounds.

Do they have energy to burn?

Enjoy a bit of friendly competition?

Want to treat them to some exciting outdoor exercise that’s both physically and mentally stimulating?

If you’ve answered yes to all these questions, why not consider signing your canine companion up for some "Lure Coursing".

Lure Coursing is a humane sport (RSPCA endorsed) that attempts to imitate the coursing of a rabbit or hare. Instead of a live rabbit however, the dogs chase an artificial “lure”, usually a bunch of plastic bags. NO LIVE GAME IS EVER USED IN THE EVENT.

The lures are attached to a line or rope that is pulled around by an electric motor specifically designed for the purpose.

A good course pattern is irregular and should simulate the way a rabbit would run in an open field. This sport appeals to big and small dogs and there are often several different breeds running around together making for some wonderfully entertaining afternoons!

Lure Coursing is not just a test of speed. Dogs are also evaluated on their enthusiasm, their ability to maintain a path of close proximity to the lure’s course, their agility and their endurance.

How do you start?

It’s likely that if you contact any of the clubs associated with your breed they will have information about Lure Coursing events in your area.

The Queensland Lure Coursing Association

The Rhodesian Ridgeback Club of Victoria

Dogs Victoria has a list of lure coursing events in Victoria.

White German Shepherd Dog Alliance of Victoria

Siberian Husky Club of Victoria

Of course, your dog doesn’t have to be a pure breed to join in. All they need is a penchant for the thrill of the chase!

The Melbourne Pet and Animal Expo

If you’re searching for some new ideas to enrich your pet’s life, consider heading down to the Melbourne Pet and Animal Expo at the Caulfield Racecourse, Melbourne.

This three day event begins today and ends on Sunday February 3.

Mingle with 15,000 other animal lovers and enjoy animal training competitions, grooming exhibitions, and competitive dog activities such as Lure Coursing from the Rhodesian Ridgeback Club of Victoria. Plus you’ll find many other pet related activities to suit all age levels.

Next week, find out more about the ancient dog sport of Lure Coursing.