Donovan - An Extraordinary Dog

Heeling at an AIOC Obedience Trial

Dogs are such wonderful creatures, and most are quite willing, with the right motivation, to work with their humans and learn to play at our dog sports, at least to some extent. Many of us who love dog sports participate in more than one, though most of us have a core couple that we compete in. It can be difficult enough to excel and earn advanced achievements in one area, let alone several.

Once in awhile though, a dog and handler team comes along who just have such a wonderful and extraordinary combination of relationship and work ethic that they excel in more than one arena. Donovan, a Standard Poodle bred by FPO&TC member Suzanne Loblaw and handled and loved by FPO&TC member Margot Jorgensen is one of those incredible dogs. Donovan's name with all of his attached Titles is a handful:

UKC Started Hunting Retriever, CKC Champion, Master Obedience Trial Champion Reigate’s Here Comes The Sun, Tracking Dog Excellent, Urban Tracking Dog, Working Certificate, Junior Hunter, Agility Excellent, Agility Excellent Jumper, Canine Good Neighbour, AIOC Companion Dog Excellent, AAC Agility Trial Champion of Canada, Master Steeplechase Dog of Canada, Bronze Jumpers, Silver Standard, Silver Award of Merit. 

"As a 12 week pup in JoAnne’s puppy class Dono looked up at me and asked “what can I do for you?” That has been his lifelong attitude and together we’ve experienced so many activities, some for Titles (obedience, tracking, agility and hunt) and others like herding, draft and nosework, just for fun. He is awesome and I am blessed." says Margot. 

As are we fellow members blessed for having the opportunity to watch Margot and Donovan's journey, observe and admire their relationship and Donovan's honest work ethic. Dono as a senior dog still enjoys working with Margot, enjoying Agility, Nosework, the occasional Veteran's Obedience class and community demos. He still looks up at Margot and asks what he can do for her today, just as he did as a much younger competitor. Congratulations Margot on all of your achievements with Donovan, and on the wonderful relationship the two of you share.

Tracking at an Urban Tracking Seminar

Tracking at an Urban Tracking Seminar

Practicing the Broad Jump

Field Tracking