Rustington doggy duo to take to international stage

Hayley Telling and her pet Cavalier King Charles spaniel, Barney were jumping for joy after it was announced they were included in the England squad which will be competing in this year’s World Agility Open Championships, in Italy.

The duo have quickly made a name for themselves competing in – and winning – countless local and national agility competitions. But this is their first international competition.

Hayley, 24, of Milton Avenue, Rustington, said: “Barney has achieved so much in his short time competing in agility.

“I am totally over the moon to have been selected to compete as part of team England.

“I think it is going to be an amazing experience for both of us and we are going to learn so much in our first international competition.”

The pair have a lot of work and training to complete before their international debut, in May.

That means plenty of walks and runs for both Hayley and Barney, as well as strength exercises and even a spot of hydrotherapy, too.

“To prepare for the championships we will both need to keep very fit.

“For Barney this means lots of walks, hydrotherapy, strength exercises in his own little doggy gym at home, as well as seeing his physiotherapist to make sure he is as fit as possible. For me it means lots of running so I am able to sprint to keep up with Barney!”

For the full story, see this week’s Littlehampton Gazette (Thursday, January 9).