Frequently Asked Questions
Please know that most of these questions and answers are related to the Clubs located in Southern Nevada and therefore could differ from answers for the same questions in different locations.
Gate Steward
Gate Steward is responsible for calling handlers with their dogs to the ring, on deck, and in the ring. Gate Sheets with the Running Order is provided to manage this task.
September 15, 2011 as per AKC Agility Trial Secretaries' Newsletter
Separating Multiple Dogs with Same Handler on the Gate Sheet: If a handler has multiple dogs within the same jump height, those dogs may be separated to allow for adequate spacing between runs, including moving one of the dogs to the start of a prior jump height. It is important that the run order of the dogs within the same jump height does not change, however it is ok to move a dog out of order (i.e. in front of or behind) another dog/same handler that is in a different jump height.
Example: A handler is showing dogs "a" and "b" in the 26 inch jump height class and also one dog "c" in the 24 inch jump height class. Dog "a" may be moved to run between when the 20s conclude and the 24s begin, thus giving that handler more time between runs. This process keeps the ring from waiting on that handler to switch dogs when the 26 jump height is running. It does not matter if dog "a" is now in front of dog "c" so long as the dogs within the same jump height class did not switch in order (i.e. dog "b" may not be put between the 20s and 24s).
When entries first close we ask that Trial Secretaries continue to provide as much space as possible within a jump height for handlers who are running multiple dogs. If additional space is still desired the exhibitor should discuss the options that are available with the judge, as it is the judge who is responsible for any gate sheet changes during the trial weekend.