Demonstration Team

In 1965, NYOC members formed a Demonstration Team to offer free performances to the public to showcase the close bond that exists between a well-trained dog and his owner.  The performances were also designed to educate adults and children about how to approach dogs. Since 1965, the NYOC Demonstration Team has performed for the public close to 500 times and continues to do so at public locations such as hospitals, retirement homes, children’s clubs and libraries.

Performances are generally given once a month and last about an hour and a half.  They include obedience routines set to music (a little bit like the Mounties’ Musical Ride) as well as tricks and either agility exercises or a game or two.  The performances are always followed by a lot of tail wagging and visiting between the dogs and the audience.

If you know of an organization that would like to host a performance, please call NYOC at 416-222-4109 or email demoteam@nyoc.ca.  A brochure about the Demonstration Team is also available.

It is possible for people who are not Club members to be on the Demonstration Team. The team practices for 45 minutes every week at St. Patrick’s church right after the training classes, roughly at 9 pm.  Being on the Demonstration Team is a wonderful experience and a lot of work. As the handler, there is a significant time commitment.  Your dog has to be well-trained and he/she must get along well with other dogs.  If you are interested in joining the team, read more about the benefits and the expectations for dogs and handlers on the Team.

Comments from our Audience:

‘I have thought a number of times about your dog show.  It was really something special. The dogs were so good, especially when their owners walked out of the room and reappeared minutes later. Not one of the dogs moved! But even better was the reaction of the audience – the ladies around me were totally absorbed and were choosing their favourite dogs when they came round for pats. The show was a great gift for them. Thank you so much.’ — Joan

Comments from our Demonstration Team:

“When I first took my dog, Dinah, to NYOC she was hyper, jumpy, extremely playful and would try to run away if you were trying to get her. After a few weeks in Anne’s beginner class, Dinah’s behaviour started to change. By the end of all of the classes, Dinah was asked to join the Demonstration Team.  What the Demonstration Team is doing puts smiles and joy into people’s lives. Without the North York Obedience Club there would be fewer smiles and joy going around. “— Katie

“There are evenings in the long cold winter when I really have to push myself to drive to Demonstration Team practices but I have never yet come back home wishing I hadn’t gone. I always enjoy being with people who love what they are doing and who see the funny side of most situations. NYOC has lots of people like that and I am honoured to consider them my friends.” —  Sharon T.