York Pa Fair

York County DockDogs jumper a world-class canine

The Belgian Malinois had impressed dock-diving enthusiasts the year before with 26-foot running long jumps at DockDogs competitions.

But Rocket sat still on an icy dock in February 2010 in North Carolina.

He jumped 22 feet 6 inches on his first attempt, and his scores descended from there --16 feet 8 inches, 12 feet 1 inch, a scratch. One round, he ran to the end of the dock and slipped into the pool.

It was too cold, and Rocket didn't like it.

Bear was frantic. She had broken Rocket's trust.

"He's a very sensitive dog," the 54-year-old Hellam Township resident said.

* * *

Bear, foster coordinator for the American Belgian Malinois Rescue Club, adopted Rocket -- one of her four Belgian Malinois -- in 2008. She fostered him for a week before deciding that she couldn't let the rambunctious dog go. She adopted three others the same way.

Bear said the high-energy breed, often used for protection work, needs regular activity. Bear plays with Rocket -- her most energetic dog -- for about 20 minutes, five times a day.

"They need a job to do," she said. "They're bred for that."

So the pair picked up dock diving. Bear had back injuries that prevent her from running or lifting anything heavy. The water activity for canines requires minimal exertion on her body -- aside from a throw -- while physically challenging Rocket and giving him the exercise he needs.

She searched online and came across Keystone DockDogs. She also met Dori Barkby, who has a pond and a regulation-size dock a two-minute drive from Bear's home.

Bear and Rocket practiced there before starting to compete in DockDogs in 2009. She also trained Rocket in her backyard. She worked on his obedience, threw toys for him to retrieve, and instructed him to run up hills.

DockDogs, a company established in 2002, holds dock-jumping competitions all over the country and in the United Kingdom, Germany, Japan and Australia. Dog-and-owner teams compete in Big Air, Extreme Vertical, Speed Retrieve and Iron Dog.

Olde York Street Fair in downtown York City

The 36th annual Olde York Street Fair, a family-friendly festival celebrating Mother’s Day, runs from 12:30 to 6 p.m. Sunday, May 8, in downtown York City.

Arts and crafts stands, food vendors and entertainers will fill Continental Square and line Market and George streets. Activities, rides and games for youngsters will be centered on the Kids’ Fun Block.

Admission is free.

For all the details, visit the York City website or call (717) 854-1587.

Who's who in finance, banking, and insurance

United States official postal guide

International molders' and foundry workers' journal

The York legal record

Billboard