Competitive Sports Training
Fusion Pet Retreat’s training center has a wide range of class offerings to fit many dogs’ needs. Each class is lead by an experienced instructor, dedicated to personal growth and continuing education in the field. We focus on a positive and progressive approach to dog training and behavior.
All classes are hosted in the comfort of a climate-controlled 11,000 sq. ft. indoor facility.
Upcoming Agility Training Classes
Building Blocks of Agility I
Length: 8 – 1 hour lessons
Cost: $175
In this class you and your dog will build confidence and develop the strong foundation skills of agility. Your dog will learn rear-end awareness, targeting and basic performance with all pieces of agility equipment.
Requirements: Dogs should be at least 1 year old and have taken a Basic Obedience Class.
Never done agility before? Just looking to try it out? Check out our FUNgility Class!
Upcoming Sessions:
Coming soon! Email Elizabeth@FusionPetRetreat.com to be added to the waitlist.
Building Blocks of Agility II
Length: 8 – 1 hour lessons
Cost: $175
This class will continue to build the teamwork between you and your dog in the sport of agility. You will continue to work on skills from Building Blocks of Agility I as well as adding short sequences to your toolbox.
Requirements: All dogs must be one (1) year of age and have completed Building Blocks of Agility I or have Training Director approval
*Weave Poles are not taught in the Building Blocks of Agility Classes. Its recommended to take the 2 X 2 or Channel Weave Pole Class concurrent with this class.
Building Blocks of Agility III
Length: 8 – 1 hour lessons
Cost: $175
This class will be taking the skills you have learned in both Building Blocks 1 & 2 and taking them to the next level. We will start to now apply our flat work and individual obstacle skills into course work.
Requirements: Building Blocks 1 & 2 or dog should be familiar will all agility equipment (except weave poles). Lowered Contacts are acceptable.
Recommended Class To Take Next: 2×2 or Channel Weave Pole class is recommended to be taken either concurrent to the Building Blocks Program or before Novice Agility.
Class Sessions:
Wednesdays @ 6:00pm with Elizabeth
Tuesdays @ 4:00pm with Danielle
Novice Handling Class
Length: 8 – 1 hour lessons
Cost: $145-160
In this class teams will work on basic handling sequences and will receive continued instruction on all equipment to build confidence and knowledge in preparation for novice level competition. Teams should have experience with ALL obstacles and proficiency on most obstacles, but may still be working to master some skills such as weaves in sequence or contact criteria.
Requirements: Successful completion of entire Building Blocks Program or full proficiency on all obstacles (including at least 6 weaves and full height contacts)
Class Sessions:
Wednesdays @ 6:15pm with Kelsey
Wednesdays @ 7:30pm with Kelsey
Thursdays @ 2:45pm with Lori
Advanced Handling Class
Length: 8 – 1 hour lessons
Cost: $145-160
In this class you will continue to build you and your dog’s coursework skills as a team. Students will work on handling sequences with increasing difficulty in preparation for open/advanced level competition and beyond.
Class Sessions:
Tuesdays @ 1pm with Darci
Tuesdays @ 8:30pm with Lisa
Wednesdays @ 3:00pm with Elizabeth
Thursdays @ 9:30am with Jen
Thursdays @ 10:45am with Beth
Thursdays @ 6:15pm with Brooke
Masters Handling Class
Length: 8 – 1 hour lessons
Cost: $145-160
In this class teams will tackle coursework geared towards the masters level of competition. Students will work on fine-tuning techniques, adding more advanced skills to their handling toolbox, and will be challenged with more demanding courses.
Class Sessions:
Tuesdays @ 2:15pm with Darci
Tuesdays @ 7:30pm with Leanne
Wednesdays @ 10:30am with Dawn
Wednesdays @ 12pm with Dawn
Wednesdays @ 4:30pm with Elizabeth
Thursdays @ 12:00 with Beth
Thursdays @ 1:15pm with Beth
International Handling Class
Length: 8 – 1 hour lessons
Cost: $175
This class will focus on analyzing and executing full length courses involving skills that teams might see in the following classes or events: Premier, Masters Challenge Biathlon, Masters Series, National-level events, and/or tryouts for international teams. Expect to be pushed out of your comfort zone!
Class Sessions:
Tuesdays @ 6pm with Leanne
Weave Class
Length: 6 – 1 hour lessons
Cost: $120
This 6-week class will introduce the 2×2 method of training weave poles to your dog. Weave
Poles are not taught in Building Blocks, and it is typically recommended to take this class concurrently with Building Blocks 3.
Requirements: Dogs should be at least 12 months old
Currently at the level of Building Blocks 2 or equivalent. You will need at least two sets of 2x2s for home practice. If you don’t have them, you may rent them from Fusion on the first night of class.
Homework: Plan for at least 2 hrs/week, spread out through the week, in 5-8 min increments. Short, frequent practice sessions will create a stronger understanding of your dog’s criteria! Homework will be noted in your journal, which will be provided.
Upcoming Classes:
Mondays @ 5:30pm with Brooke
Choose Your Own Adventure: Personalized Skills Class
Length: 4 – 1 hour lessons + Online Instruction
Cost: $120
This class allows you to choose a single skill you want to further advance over the course block. Each week you will receive one-on-one time with the coach. Skill progress will be evaluated, a customized home training plan suggested for between classes, and in-class time to practice. In addition to biweekly class instruction, there will be three 20 minute ring rentals included in the class price. Also included, support and instruction via the class FB group page during the weeks class does not meet.
Drop In Handling Class
Length: 1 – 1 hour lesson
Cost: $22.50
Want some extra practice? This class is perfect for you! This class will be a one day Drop-In agility class. The class will have nested courses appropriate for all levels from Novice to Masters. The class will be taught by one of Fusion’s qualified instructors. Each student will have individual instruction given to them during their turn.
Classes:
Every other Tuesday @ 11:30am with Dawn
Small Spaces, Big Skills (Masters Levels Skills Class)
Length: 8 1-hr lessons
Cost: $160
This 8-week class will focus on practicing and refining skills that teams might see in the following classes or events: Premier, Masters Challenge Biathlon, Masters Series, National-level events, and/or tryouts for international teams. This class is a greta opportunity for teams planning to attend the US Open, AKC Nationals or AKC Invitationals! Skills may include difficult weave entries/exits, independent backsides, treadles, discriminations, etc. Teams should be proficient with ALL obstacles and performing at the Masters level. This class will not be full courses, but will feature 4-5 obstacle sequences to grow skills and try new options.Expect to be pushed out of your comfort zone!
Upcoming Nosework Classes
The Nose Knows - Level 1
Length: 6 – 1 hour lessons
Cost: $140
Inspired by working detection dogs, Nosework is a fun sport that builds confidence and focus in dogs. Dogs initially learn to hunt for food in boxes to begin to build drive for hunting. As they puzzle, they will learn to problem-solve. Nosework is a sport for all dogs—old, young, reactive, shy.
The Show Nose On - Level 2
Length: 6 – 1 hour lessons
Cost: $140
This is second level in the Nosework progression. At this level, the dog will begin searching for odors. Inspired by working detection dogs, Nosework is a fun sport that builds confidence and focus in dogs. As they puzzle, they will learn to problem-solve. Nosework is a sport for all dogs—old, young, reactive, shy.
Continuing On - Level 3
Length: 6 – 1 hour lessons
Cost: $140
This level continues on all skills learned in previous classes. Dogs should be on odor at this stage. Inspired by working detection dogs, Nosework is a fun sport that builds confidence and focus in dogs. Nosework is a sport for all dogs—old, young, reactive, shy.
Other Competitive Sports Training Classes
Conformation Run-Thrus
Length: 1 Run-Thru
Cost: $13
Practice your handling skills and get another eye on you before upcoming show. Dogs over 4 months and up-to-date on vaccinations welcome; handlers should have some prior knowledge of Conformation skills.
Classes:
Every Monday at 1:15pm with Becky or Gretchen
Rally & Competitive Obedience Run Thrus
Length: 1 Run-Thru
Cost: $15
Each week one Novice Rally course will be nested into one more advanced Rally course in our front 50×50 ring to accommodate practice for AKC Rally shows.
At the same time, in our rear 50×50 ring, various obedience levels will be arranged for practicing Obedience for AKC obedience shows. (Beginner Novice thru Utility)
Positive and fair training methods only please. This hour is meant to be fun and supportive to dog and handler alike. (Practice for non AKC venues are welcome, just know signs and equipment will be set up per AKC regulations.)
Please email Lori with your practice levels each time you register: lorimck66@yahoo.com.
Classes:
Every Monday at 10:45 with Lori
Puppy Sport Class
Length: 6 – 1 hour lessons
Cost: $140
This 6-week class (45 minute class) focuses on teaching your dog the fundamental skills needed for dog sports. An emphasis will be placed on getting your dog ready for agility, but other sports are also welcome. This class is designated for dog handlers that have previous experience in dog sports (more specifically, agility). All handlers must have participated in agility with another dog either training or competing at the Intermediate levels or higher.
Never done agility before? Try our FUNgility class!
Our Competitive Sports Training Team
Fusion’s passionate team of professionals are trained by a certified behaviorist and take continuing education seriously.
Becky Koeger
Conformation Instructor
I have been competing in dog sports since 2000 and I believe in having a well rounded dog. My Border Collies compete in agility, obedience, rally, herding and conformation.
I have put numerous titles and championships on my dogs and have competed in multiple national events. I love to teach and see the progression with handlers and their dogs, it’s a rewarding experience when a team comes together.
Beth Crowley
Agility Instructor
I train service dogs and work with clients with physical disabilities thru my work with Helping Paws in Hopkins. I started doing Nosework with my own pet dogs in 2011-2012 and haven’t stopped training and competing since then. I love watching the personalities of individual dogs grow in confidence as they grow in their Nosework skills. I also like to do water rescue training and draftwork with my Newfoundlands.
Beth Hostetter
Agility Instructor
As a Certified OneMind Dogs Instructor, I love using and teaching the OneMind Dogs method to help my students better understand their dogs. It is a joy to see these teams come together and grow. Clear communication, that is natural to the dog, increases both speed and confidence, while allowing the handler to work calmer and at greater distance. My classes focus on the handler understanding their dog, team building, and growing confidence in dogs and handlers alike.
Britt Sepanski
Assistant Training Director & Agility Instructor
I love working with our “special needs” dogs that don’t know how to play, teaching them to open up and learn appropriate play so they can make friends. In my freetime, I compete in agility with my dogs.
Brooke Knotek Benjamin
Agility Instructor
I love seeing the “light-bulb” moment when teaching a new dog and handler team a new skill. Outside of dog training I work as a certified veterinary technician (CVT) and as a certified canine rehabilitation practitioner (CCRP).
Caitlin Varhalla
Agility Instructor
I have been training and competing in agility for the last 20 years and currently share my home with two border collies. I am constantly evolving in my training and am always excited to try new things and approaches with my students. I try and make every class a positive fun experience where everyone leaves excited to come back.
Christina Wessels
Agility Instructor
When I took my first tentative step into the sport of agility with my first Nova Scotia Duck Tolling Retriever, Nikko, back in 2012, I was immediately hooked. I love the partnership you form with your dog and the challenge of training skills and running courses. I now compete in AKC and UKI with three Tollers and have been an agility instructor since 2016. I particularly enjoy working with young dogs and new handlers just discovering the joy of agility for themselves.
Danielle Wagner
Agility Instructor
I have been training and showing dogs since I was three. Agility is my first passion, which has grown over the years. During this time, I have trained several breeds, providing me with a diverse skill set that enables me to train my dogs to the highest level possible. It is my passion to help people with their dogs, by helping them to build a connection, a working relationship, and skills to help them achieve their goals. Watching the partnership succeed is one of the best things about teaching.
Dawn Plekkenpol
Agility Instructor
Darci Wagner
Agility Instructor
I have been training and competing with my dogs my whole life. I grew up showing in conformation and obedience but my true love is Agility. Over the years I have owned many different breeds from small to tall which gives a great perspective for when it comes to teaching agility classes and I definitely think there is not a one size fits all approach to teaching agility.
Elizabeth Doyle
General Manager &
Agility Instructor
I have been competing in dog agility since I was 11 years old. I have had the opportunity to train many different dogs. Currently I train with my two border collies. When teaching, I try to bring my knowledge and experiences to provide an individualized approach for each dog.
Gretchen Olson
Conformation Instructor
Bio coming soon!
Jennifer Sorum
Agility Instructor
Bio coming soon!
Julie Heller
Agility Instructor
Bio coming soon!
Kara Maytag Kaszas
Agility Instructor
Kara has owned and occasionally bred Standard Schnauzers for the past 20 years. She competes in Conformation,
Agility, Barn Hunt, Dock Diving, Scentwork, FastCAT, Obedience and Rally with her dogs. When not busy with dog
activities she is cheering on her 12 year old daughter in dance, crafting, cooking, baking or curling.
Kelsey Germscheid
Agility Instructor
I’ve been around the agility world since being a junior handler, and have also trained in Obedience and Scentwork. I love using training to teach a better relationship between dogs and their people, and my favorite thing is seeing that relationship bloom while our dogs learn new skills. When not teaching or training my own Sheltie, Renly, I love to do anything outdoors whether that be hiking, camping, skiing; along with practicing photography on the side.
Leanne Wortman
Agility Instructor
I have been active in the sport of agility since 2007. Learning new things and striving to be a better trainer and handler for my dogs is a major part of what I love about the sport. I have been fortunate enough to train with some amazing instructors from near and far, as well as compete locally, regionally, and nationally. I enjoy helping teams add skills to their toolbox and learning from both my human and canine students.
Lisa Hennen
Agility Instructor
Bio coming soon!
Lori McKusick
Rally Obedience Instructor
I’ve been training dogs for 14 years. After trying many dog sports, my favorites are Agility and Rally because she enjoys the mental challenge of memorizing courses. I will provide challenging practice courses each week at all AKC Rally levels.
Sue Kliewer
NOsework Instructor
I train service dogs and work with clients with physical disabilities thru my work with Helping Paws in Hopkins. I started doing Nosework with my own pet dogs in 2011-2012 and haven’t stopped training and competing since then. I love watching the personalities of individual dogs grow in confidence as they grow in their Nosework skills. I also like to do water rescue training and draftwork with my Newfoundlands.
Take a Tour
Want to learn more about us?
Our staff would love a chance to show you around and answer all of your questions.
If you would like to tour our facility after watching the virtual tour, feel free to come in during any of these time windows:
- Monday 10-11am,
- Tuesday 10-11am or 5-6pm,
- Wednesday 10-11am or 2-3pm,
- Thursday 10-11am or 5-6pm,
- Friday 10-11am.
