Meet the Pros: Liz Dole, Veterinarian & Championship Dog Agility Trainer
Liz Dole, DVM is a veterinarian and champion agility trainer from central Virginia. Liz has been training and competing in the sport of dog agility for over 20 years with her dogs Rosie, Lexie, and her latest champion-level Labrador Retriever – Chelsea.
Q: Why are you passionate about dog agility?
As a veterinarian, dogs have always been a big part of my life. I want my dogs to live active, full lives and agility gives that to them.
Q: What is the most exciting part of competing with your dogs?
It is always a thrill to be able to step to the start line with our dogs at an agility trial. The anticipation of running a course with them and seeing the joy that it brings to both of us is the best part.
Q: What does it take to get your dogs to perform at the highest level?
For an agility team to be successful at the highest level, it starts with your mindset. You have to be willing to put in the practice time and be open to the likelihood that your path to success is not likely to be a linear one. Usually, you take some steps forward and some backwards before your teamwork gels. Be patient and persistent and find joy in the process not just the outcome.
Q: Why do you feed Purina Pro Plan Sport dog food?
I have been a veterinarian for over 30 years and I am passionate about giving my dogs the best diets for their nutritional needs. Purina Pro Plan Sport provides complete, nutritionally balanced diets that give my dogs the energy and protein levels they need to compete at the highest levels of agility.
Q: What advice would you give to others looking to reach your level of success?
Spend lots of time building the relationship with your dog and focus on the fundamentals of training. Find a trainer who believes in positive training methods and always remember that this is supposed to be something fun for both you and your dog, regardless of outcomes.
Q: What makes competing with your dogs worth all the time and energy you put into it?
Let’s face it—our dogs love to spend time with us because we are the center of their universe. When you reach that level where agility runs are like a synchronized dance between two partners, it is the most exhilarating feeling in the world!
Liz chooses Pro Plan Sport 30/20 for her dogs Chelsea and Callie.
This individual received coupons for Purina Pro Plan.
To help ensure her dogs are reaching their full potential, Laurel trusts Purina Pro Plan SPORT Performance 30/20 Formula. Take a look at our full line of Pro Plan dog food formulas to find the one that’s right for your dogs.