HowPetCare is thrilled to share the heartwarming story of Apollo, a 2-year-old Belgian Malinois who has defied all odds to become one of the fastest dogs in the country. From his humble beginnings as a failed police dog to his remarkable transformation into a certified service dog, Apollo's journey is nothing short of extraordinary. Join us as we delve into the incredible story of this canine prodigy.
When Bailey McNeir, a senior at the University of Georgia (UGA) and a human development and family sciences major, stumbled upon Apollo on a dog rehoming page, little did she know that she was about to change both their lives forever. Despite being labeled as lazy by his previous trainers, Apollo's potential was evident from the moment he entered Bailey's life.
A Lineage of Success
Apollo comes from a long line of highly accomplished working dogs. His grandmother was a mine detection dog, and his grandfather even starred in the 2015 movie “Max.” With such an impressive lineage, Apollo had big shoes to fill, and he was determined to make his mark.
From Underdog to Top Dog
Under Bailey's guidance, Apollo embarked on a rigorous training regimen to channel his energy and athleticism. Bailey introduced him to lure coursing, a sport where dogs chase a mechanized lure across a 100-yard-long course. Although Apollo initially struggled to focus on the lure, with time and persistence, he mastered the art of lure coursing.
As Apollo's skills improved, Bailey began entering him into competitions to showcase his speed. With each event, Apollo's ranking climbed higher and higher until he reached the pinnacle of success. He went from 35th place to 25th, then fifth, and eventually claimed the coveted title of the fastest dog in his breed.
Fastest Dogs USA: A Triumph for Apollo
Apollo's meteoric rise in the world of competitive dog racing caught the attention of the American Kennel Club (AKC) and ESPN. He was invited to participate in the prestigious Fastest Dogs USA competition, where the top dogs from the 14 fastest breeds in the country compete. With top speeds reaching an impressive 31.98 and 32.1 mph, Apollo solidified his status as one of the fastest dogs in the AKC for 2022.
The competition, which aired on ABC, showcased Apollo's incredible speed and agility. His electrifying performance left spectators in awe and further cemented his reputation as a true canine superstar.
A Partner in Crime and a Full-Time Service Dog
Beyond his remarkable achievements on the racing track, Apollo has also made a profound impact on the lives of those around UGA's campus as a certified service dog. Bailey describes him as her partner in crime, accompanying her everywhere she goes.
Apollo's training as a service dog began at a tender age. By the time he was 5 months old, he had already learned how to alert for PTSD, and at 7 months, he picked up cardiac alert skills. In addition to his vital roles, Apollo also performs guide work naturally, assisting Bailey with mobility tasks.
The Heartwarming Impact of Apollo
Apollo's presence has not gone unnoticed on UGA's campus. From bus drivers to dining hall staff, everyone has come to know and love this extraordinary canine companion. Bailey fondly recalls how the wok station worker would always offer Apollo some chicken whenever they passed by.
Chaffin, the president of the Culinary Kitchen of Athens, where Bailey is employed, attests to Apollo's gentle nature. She feels completely at ease having him around her 11-year-old daughter and her young nieces and nephews, a testament to his exceptional temperament.
A Future Full of Promise
Apollo's journey is far from over. Bailey has big plans for her four-legged companion. She intends to get him back into detective work and explore other competitive avenues such as agility and obedience training. She also hopes to venture into ring sports, which involve competitive tracking.
In November, Apollo will be competing in Hull, Georgia, with high hopes of securing an invitation to the FastCAT nationals. With his remarkable speed and unwavering determination, there's no doubt that Apollo's future is destined for greatness.
FAQ
1. How did Apollo go from flunking police dog training to becoming one of the fastest dogs in the US?
Apollo's initial failure in police dog training did not deter him or his owner, Bailey McNeir. With dedicated training and perseverance, Apollo honed his skills and gradually climbed the ranks in competitive dog racing.
2. What is lure coursing?
Lure coursing is a sport where dogs chase a mechanized lure across a 100-yard-long course. It helps to develop a dog's speed, agility, and focus.
3. How fast can Apollo run?
Apollo has achieved top speeds of 31.98 and 32.1 mph, making him one of the fastest dogs in the country.
4. What is Fastest Dogs USA?
Fastest Dogs USA is an invitation-only competition organized by the American Kennel Club and ESPN. It showcases the fastest dogs from different breeds in the country.
5. How did Apollo become a certified service dog?
Apollo underwent training from a young age to become a service dog. He learned how to alert for PTSD and cardiac issues and also performs guide work naturally.
6. What impact has Apollo had on UGA's campus?
Apollo has become a beloved figure on UGA's campus. He accompanies Bailey everywhere and has made friends with bus drivers, dining hall staff, and other students.
7. What are Bailey's future plans for Apollo?
Bailey intends to explore various avenues with Apollo, including detective work, agility training, competitive obedience, and ring sports.
8. Will Apollo compete in future events?
Yes, Apollo will be competing in Hull, Georgia, with hopes of securing an invitation to the FastCAT nationals.
9. How has Apollo's temperament been around children?
Apollo has proven to be gentle and well-behaved around children. Bailey's employer, Chaffin, feels completely comfortable having him around her young daughter and nieces and nephews.
10. What sets Apollo apart from other dogs?
Apollo's remarkable journey from a failed police dog to becoming one of the fastest dogs in the US sets him apart. His loving nature, incredible speed, and impressive training make him a truly exceptional canine companion.
Key Points
- Apollo, a Belgian Malinois, went from flunking police dog training to becoming one of the fastest dogs in the country.
- His lineage includes successful working dogs, and his potential was evident from the beginning.
- Through lure coursing and dedicated training, Apollo showcased his speed and agility.
- He competed in the prestigious Fastest Dogs USA competition and ranked as the No. 1 fastest Belgian Malinois dog in the AKC for 2022.
- Apollo also serves as a full-time service dog, assisting his owner, Bailey McNeir, with PTSD alert and cardiac alert tasks.
- He has made a positive impact on UGA's campus, where he is loved by bus drivers, dining hall staff, and fellow students.
- Bailey has plans to continue Apollo's training and explore other competitive avenues such as agility and obedience.
- Apollo's journey is far from over, and he will be competing in future events, including the FastCAT nationals.
- Apollo's gentle nature and exceptional temperament make him a beloved companion for Bailey and those around him.
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