Our Foundation Boot Camp is designed for handlers who want more than mechanical instruction. While many participants are newer to herding, a significant number are experienced handlers who want to shift from mechanical handling to a deeper understanding of the dynamics at play.
Across all levels, the same shift tends to happen: people realize it is not their job to herd. The dog already carries the instinct and skill to do that. The handler’s role is to provide direction, communicate the rules of the work, and help refine that natural instinct so the dog can operate with clarity and confidence.
Most handler challenges do not stem from a lack of effort. They stem from the inability to accurately see what is happening in real time. Once that changes, timing improves, pressure becomes clearer, and the work becomes significantly more effective.
How the Camp Works:
This is a true working format designed to keep handlers engaged throughout the entire camp. Enrollment is limited to 18 handlers, divided into three groups of six. Each group rotates every 90 minutes through three stations:
What Changes for Handlers:
As handlers begin to understand pressure, timing, and influence—rather than relying on mechanical instruction—their dogs become more consistent, more thoughtful, and easier to work with.
The goal is not to control the dog’s work, but to support and refine it.
When that shift happens, the work becomes quieter, more connected, and more effective. The handler stops trying to make things happen and begins to understand how to guide what is already there.
Skills & Drills:
Upcoming Camps:
18 handler spots. Unlimited audit spots (in person and virtual via private live stream).
Sign-up link for camps can be found on the Facebook Event Listings: https://www.facebook.com/groups/2714545378685128/events
Across all levels, the same shift tends to happen: people realize it is not their job to herd. The dog already carries the instinct and skill to do that. The handler’s role is to provide direction, communicate the rules of the work, and help refine that natural instinct so the dog can operate with clarity and confidence.
Most handler challenges do not stem from a lack of effort. They stem from the inability to accurately see what is happening in real time. Once that changes, timing improves, pressure becomes clearer, and the work becomes significantly more effective.
How the Camp Works:
This is a true working format designed to keep handlers engaged throughout the entire camp. Enrollment is limited to 18 handlers, divided into three groups of six. Each group rotates every 90 minutes through three stations:
- Working Session with Cathy Sumeracki
- Working Session with Hana Fullmer
- Structured Learning Block (no dogs): video review, exercises, and understanding checks
What Changes for Handlers:
As handlers begin to understand pressure, timing, and influence—rather than relying on mechanical instruction—their dogs become more consistent, more thoughtful, and easier to work with.
The goal is not to control the dog’s work, but to support and refine it.
When that shift happens, the work becomes quieter, more connected, and more effective. The handler stops trying to make things happen and begins to understand how to guide what is already there.
Skills & Drills:
- Five Laws of Leadership Exercises
- Getting Your Dog's Mind
- Find The Joy
- Square Flanks
- Stops
- Arena Dynamics
- Navigating Obstacles
- Pen/Corner Work
- And more ...
Upcoming Camps:
- May 9-10 at Summerny Ranch in Ignacio, Colorado
- May 30 - 31 at Summerny Ranch in Ignacio, Colorado
- July 14 - 16 at Brigand's Hideout in Battleground, WA
18 handler spots. Unlimited audit spots (in person and virtual via private live stream).
Sign-up link for camps can be found on the Facebook Event Listings: https://www.facebook.com/groups/2714545378685128/events
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