Explore Canine Agility Club of Fresno's Rich History

30 January 2025

Canine Agility Team (CAT) Overview

Founded on October 31, 1992, CAT has generally celebrated Halloween. Tammy Domico was President for the first two years, and her favorite color is pink. Karen Birdsong was Vice President for the first two years, and her favorite color is purple.

Club Colors

  • Pink
  • Purple
  • Gray - added to balance everything out

National Affiliations

  • USDAA (United States Dog Agility Association)
  • NADAC (North American Dog Agility Council)
  • ASCA (Australian Shepherd Club of America)
  • CPE (Canine Performance Events)

Activities and Contributions

  • Sanctioned agility trials
  • Agility classes through Clovis Adult School during summers
  • Donations to the Central California Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals (CCSPCA)
  • Communication through members-only email
  • Website: k9agility.org
  • Facebook page for public contact

Starting the Club

The club's formation involved a significant financial investment by Tammy Domico and her father, Ed Fields. Tom Haskel donated the use of a trailer until a replacement could be purchased. Tom Haskell and Burt Huie made some original equipment, embodying a grassroots effort with energetic dialogue throughout. New members were later assessed an equipment fee of $50.00 plus membership dues of $40.00. Powder coating metal parts involved lively discussions with multiple colors being used.

Founding Members and Their Dogs

  • Tammy Domico with Snarf and Bailee (Queensland Heelers) and Karlee (Rat Terrier)
  • Karen Birdsong with Mandy (Mixed Breed)
  • Becky Harstad with Missy (Dachshund)
  • Ann and Burt Huie with Princess (American Cocker Spaniel)
  • Tom Haskell with Arnie (Shih Tzu) and Sadie (Pug)
  • Eric Rollins with Lefty (Queensland Heeler)
  • Francis Kahn with Cathy and Ruff (Schipperkes)
  • Lorie Lesher with Annie (Queensland Heeler)
  • Duane and Terri Carlile with Rocket (Brittany Spaniel) and Sunny (American Cocker Spaniel)
  • Lyn Bowler with Hannah (McNab)

Events and Trials

  • Hosted USDAA trials annually from 1993 until 2008
  • Researched trials hosted by AKC using rented equipment and a hired trial secretary
  • Held an officially sanctioned A match in fall 2013
  • First sanctioned AKC Agility Trial in 2014
  • Became Canine Agility Club of Fresno in 2014
  • Scheduled AKC trials annually from 2015 to 2017

Practice and Events

From 1993, weekly practices have been held at parks in Fresno and Clovis. The club also sponsors Fun Runs open to any competitor, providing ring experience before local trials. Currently, practices are held at the Training Yard of the CSPCA in Fresno.

Club Philosophy

“To form an agility practice group that encompasses fun, exercise, and agility training from beginner through competitive levels.”