The 16th Annual Vermont Police Canine Association’s Green Mountain Iron Dog will be held on September 26, 2015 on the shores of Lake Champlain at Camp Dudley at Kiniya.  This event is farther away than most of the dog friendly events we recommend at Living With a Golden, but it is an exciting and fun filled day that is worth the extra travel time.

In addition to Military and Police, it is open to the Public, and all abilities and dog breeds are welcome to compete.  Designed to reflect the different obstacles Police K9s and their handlers experience on a call, the Green Mountain Iron Dog is a 1.5 mile course where a handler and dog run through a variety of obstacles over various terrain.  In the past the course has included walls, swamps, hills, tunnels, water crossings, shooting (pellet guns), smoke filled houses, and more.

The morning will be devoted to “Pro” runners, who are there to compete with themselves and other teams.  The afternoon is “Open” for less intense teams, and for those interested in doing something fun and challenging with their dog.  The afternoon run will still be timed, and on the same course as the professional competitors.  New this year will be a “Junior” category for 7 to 13 year olds.  There will also be separate competitions to include building and drug searches (Police only), as well as a 100 yard dash (dogs only).

Even if you do not compete, the public are encouraged to come out and watch this exciting event.  For more information or to register, please visit Green Mountain Iron Dog.