WCRL Rally Returns to Central Virginia
REACH K9 and Richmond SPCA team up for trials.
After working with various trainers who used “old school” training methods, Bridgette Ashmore sought to improve communication between dogs and their handlers through more compassionate techniques. She studied canine cognition, emotion and learning theory, then used these fundamentals to start REACH K9 in Powhatan, Va.
For over seven years, REACH has offered various classes, from puppy foundations and general manners to training for tricks, parkour and stunts. With group, private and remote learning options, REACH tailors its fear-free, pain-free training programs to the individual team’s best learning method. The facility also offers a “trainer on call” platform to allow people to ask questions whenever they need.
“REACH was born out of my desire to help dogs and their owners build better relationships and the belief that we cannot resolve fear through correction,” Bridgette said. “REACH stands for Respect, Educate, Achieve, Challenge, Heal. We aim to build confidence through success, not just for the dogs but for their humans as well! Seeing our students light up when they achieve their goals brings us so much joy.”
As a professional trainer, Bridgette specializes in fear cases and rescue dog rehabilitation. She has competed in rally for over a decade and currently holds eight Master titles with her German Shepherd, Hodge. She is thrilled to offer live WCRL trials again with help from the supportive team at the Richmond SPCA.
“I absolutely love the environment WCRL provides; it’s so positive and encouraging,” Bridgette said. “It’s a great place for people who are new to dog sports to get their feet wet. The focus on teamwork and communication is applicable to many scenarios and makes it a great foundation for any other endeavors people may wish to take on with their dogs.
“We’ve partnered with the Richmond SPCA for our trials to help bring awareness to all the great programs they have at their facility,” she added. “We’ll make use of their gorgeous indoor space to offer double ring trials for titling levels and Flash. Our trial in May will be the first time Flash is offered in the Old Dominion, and it’s such a huge deal!”
The Richmond SPCA is an independent nonprofit, no-kill humane society that saves the lives of about 4,000 homeless dogs and cats each year. They provide various shelter and adoption services; operate the community’s first and only full-service, low-cost veterinary hospital; and offer resources such as a behavior helpline, online library, feline sterilization surgeries, pet training classes and children’s educational programs.
REACH K9 kicks off its 2024 season May 11 and 12 with a WCRL Titling and Flash trial. More information can be found on WCRL’s event information page.