38th Annual Houston World Series of Dog Shows offers Barn Hunt for first time

HOUSTON, Texas – Certain dogs are bred to hunt deer, bear, fox and ducks. Yet other hunting dogs have a less glamorous though equally practical purpose. For the first time this year, the 38th Annual Houston World Series of Dog Shows at NRG Center, July 15-19, 2015, gives dogs bred to hunt rats -- and those just naturally talented at it -- a chance at glory.

Tom Pincus, show chairperson, explains, “The Barn Hunt is an exciting challenge for any dog, any breed or a mixed breed, to hunt in a natural environment. But don’t worry about the rats. They’re safely enclosed in metal tubes and are not harmed in any way.”

The Barn Hunt is actually composed of three separate components. Rat N Gos is an instinct- based, scaled-down competition open to handlers and dogs of all skill levels. The Hands-on Mini Clinic is for those who want some basic training for their dogs before they attempt the Rat N Gos. And the BHA Fun Test is the official, full-scale Barn Hunt Association event for serious ratters. Dates, times and registration information for all three events follow. Check out www.barnhunt.com for more general information on the sport.