The Gate Steward is responsible for maintaining a constant and orderly flow of dogs and handlers into and out of the ring. This job is one of the most important in ensuring a smooth running trial.

Recommended for:

• Pick up the running order from the score table before going to the ring.

   

• At the beginning of each class, check that all dogs have been checked in. If there is a dog that hasn't been, try to find out if that dog is really absent or just hasn't been checked in.

   

• Using the posted running order, call out the names of handlers and dogs to make sure they are present and aware of when they will be going into the ring. You shouldn't be shy as this job requires shouting for missing handlers. The trial will run faster and smoother if you:

   

  • Have the next three dogs ready to go.

     

  • Find out from the judge at what point you can send the next dog to the start line.

     

  • Have the next dog on the starting line ready to go at the point indicated by the judge.

     

• When the dog enters the ring, inform the scribe of the dog's name or number.

   

• Make sure that all dogs run in catalog order. In the case of a conflict, scratch, or a dog running out of order, ensure the scribe is aware of the change.

   

• Inform the ring crew when it is time to change jump heights and what height they are being changed to. When the last dog of a jump height goes to the start, call out "Last dog at this height" When that dog finishes the course call out "Jumps to 16 inches" (or whatever the next height is).