03/09/2024
👩 Birgit Fürnschuß
🇦🇹 Austria
🐶 Cuba Le Petit Esprit
Birgit Fürnschuß
What inspired you to start training in Mondioring, and what does it mean to you to compete at the world championship level?
My husband Gerd had already been training in Mondioring with his dog Agent for a long time, while I was involved in agility. I actually started with Mondioring so that we could have a common hobby. It is a great honor for me to represent Austria at a World Championship, and now for the second year in a row, which makes me very proud.
Can you describe the most challenging aspect of preparing for this competition and how you overcame it?
The biggest challenge for me is to prepare my dog well for this event in a planned manner. It requires a lot of time, sweat, and concentration. It is a challenge to balance family, work, and the World Championship project. Thankfully, I am fully supported by my family, friends, and training colleagues.
How do you build and maintain a strong bond with your dog, and how does that relationship impact your performance in Mondioring?
My dog Cuba is a full member of the family. We go for long walks, swim, and in the evening, we lie together on the sofa. Our bond is very strong. At every competition, I feel how she gives everything for me, and we become one unit.
What are your goals for this championship, and how do you plan to achieve them?
My goal at this demanding event is to have fun and deliver a good performance. We count the points at the end, not beforehand! Above all, I am looking forward to the goosebumps when you start in front of a large audience in a big stadium. Let the games begin! I love the big stage!
How do you think Mondioring contributes to the broader understanding and appreciation of working dogs and canine sports?
Mondioring is an extremely versatile sport. No competition is like another, and the dogs need to be especially clear-headed in this dog sport. In Mondioring, you see extremely social and very well-trained dogs.
