Peter’s Story

 

 

 

 

Pistol Pete Knotts
“Peter”

Peter came to live with us March of 2007. I chose him from a litter of 3 because of the white smudge on his nose (very scientific, I know). When I told the woman from rescue that he was my choice, she said “oh, he’s probably the worst”. She said he had had very little socialization (I had no idea how big a deal that really was, but I was soon to find out).

When I first got Peter, he seemed a very distant type of dog. He never really focused on much – except the ball. He seemed pretty docile and did not wag his tail much. As days turned to weeks, I could see a change in him. He started to show signs of aggression with one of my other dogs and towards anything he would see on our walks. He also started resource guarding and became very reactive. He would go into the Border collie crouch and would just stare at whatever was approaching. When they got close, be it a person, bicycle, or another dog he would just start barking and pulling – like he wanted to attack! This was a total surprise to me – I had no idea what to do. I asked friends who helped me greatly. They recommended reading materials, showed me how to watch him for signs he was starting to alert, taught me how to become the “leader” and gave me information to help keep me calm, so I could help him.

I began to understand how to keep him feeling safe and secure and that would build his confidence. It was a long haul, but I am grateful for Peter! I have learned so much from him. He has shown me how important it is to establish a good relationship and how rewarding it can be. Our relationship is one of respect and understanding. It has been an incredible journey, one I am very proud of. 

Here is a fun video of Peter & his favorite kitty playing. ‘ Friends ’

In agility, Peter has already accomplished more than I could have ever imagined. Listed below are his accomplishments and titles.

UKC: UAG 1
USDAA: ASA- Advanced Standard, SJ- Starters Jumpers, AS- Advanced Snooker, AAD- Advanced Agility Dog
AKC: NA, NAJ, NF, OA, OAJ, XF, AX, AXJ, MX, MXJ,
MACH 1- 7/24/2009, MACH 2- 3/6/2010, MACH 3- 8/27/2010, MACH 4- 2/4/2011, MACH 5- 9/3/2011

2009 Border Collie Society of America Specialty Agility Trial: 20" Jump Height, Peter Qualified in 5/6 runs
earning 3- 1st placements, 1- 4th place and 1- non placing Q run

Peter's Rankings in AKC agility
2010-  #29 for all breeds
2010-  #11 in Border Collies (Invitational Year Qualifying)
2011-  #3 in Border Collies (Invitational Year Qualifying)

Peter's Agility Videos
AKC MACH 4 Double Q: 24”Jump Height
Matting: 26”Jump Height
Dirt: 26”Jump Height
Soccer Turf: 26”Jump Height
USDAA Advanced Standard: 22”Jump Height
USDAA Advanced Pairs: 22”Jump Height
USDAA Advanced Snooker: 22”Jump Height

AKC 2011 Invitationals (Nobody's Perfect- Peter showed up, Beth... not so much, but a great time was had by all)

Beth Knotts, Proprietor  •  Stevens Point, WI
Ph: 715-344-0173
Email: