For dog enthusiasts and competitors, Westminster represents the pinnacle of achievement. It’s a stage where the best and brightest showcase not only their physical prowess but also the incredible bonds they share with their handlers. For Peyto, my 10.5-year-old blue merle Sheltie, and me, the journey to Westminster has been about more than Agility; it’s about celebrating everything we’ve accomplished together.
When I first started training Peyto in Agility, I had no idea how much it would change our lives. She is my first Agility dog, and I was learning alongside her. Together, we discovered the thrill of the course—the precision, speed, repetition, and teamwork required to succeed. As the years went by, Peyto’s natural talent and consistent performances began to shine, and she quickly became one of the most dependable dogs on the field.
Still, Westminster always felt like a distant dream. It wasn’t just about competing on a grand stage, it was about proving to myself and to Peyto that we could rise to the occasion together. It became a goal—not just for accolades but as a way to honor the bond we’ve built over years of hard work, mutual trust, and shared triumphs.
Peyto is really good at things outside of the Agility ring as well. She is a Service Dog, providing me with invaluable support. One of her most unique skills is detecting American Foulbrood AFB (a fatal bacterial disease of honey bee brood caused by the spore forming bacterium Paenibacillus larvae in beehives), a skill possessed by only a handful of dogs worldwide. She has even used her incredible scent work skills to find missing ear buds! Her versatility and intelligence never cease to amaze me, and they’re a testament to her incredible spirit.
In her downtime, Peyto’s love of adventure comes alive. Her name, inspired by Peyto Lake in Banff, Canada, reflects her adventurous personality and her striking blue left eye, which is as stunning as the lake itself. She’s happiest kayaking on serene waters, her blue merle coat shimmering in the sun.
Westminster is more than a competition, it’s a celebration of the journey. For a senior dog like Peyto, it’s a feather in her cap—a moment to shine on a stage that few dogs ever reach. At 10.5 years old, Peyto embodies resilience and determination, proving that age is no barrier to greatness.
For me, this is a chance to honor everything she has given me. Peyto has taught me patience, perseverance, and the importance of celebrating small victories along the way. Peyto continued training while I recovered from ACL surgery, and we worked hard to return to our best form. Competing at Westminster is our way of stepping into the spotlight together, showcasing not just her skill but also the unbreakable bond we share.
One of the most rewarding aspects of this journey has been the opportunity to inspire others. Whether it’s through Peyto’s Agility runs, her unique talents in Nose Work, or her adventures off the course, she has inspired questions and touched the hearts of many. I hope our journey to Westminster encourages others to pursue their dreams, whether they’re in the dog world or beyond.
Receiving the invitation to compete at Westminster was an exciting moment for me, knowing that our dream would come true! As we prepared for Westminster, I found myself reflecting on the incredible journey that brought us here. It’s been a path filled with challenges, joys, obstacles, and countless memories. Walking into the arena with Peyto by my side is the culmination of years of dedication and love.
Westminster isn’t just a competition for us; it’s a celebration of everything that makes Peyto extraordinary. And as we stepped onto that grand stage, I knew that no matter the outcome, we’d already won.
