Foundation Boot Camp - D&D Mini Ranch - Queen Creek, AZ
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Sign-up:
https://onlineentries.formstack.com/forms/d_d_mini_ranch_november_21_22
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 deep 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:
- Working Session with Cathy Sumeracki
- Working Session with Hana Fullmer
- Structured Learning Block (no dogs): video review, exercises, and understanding checks
This structure ensures continuous learning rather than passive waiting for turns.
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 ...
CATHY SUMERACKI
Cathy has been herding for close to 20 years and is a stickler for a solid foundation. She is known for her creative approach,
easy to follow materials and keen understanding of the dog’s perspective. Cathy works with all breeds and students at all
levels. Many of her students now work at advanced levels and two of them now run their own herding facilities. She has
competed in all herding venues in all stock with multiple champions in AHBA, AKC, and ASCA. Her camps always include
tips and tricks on running courses. Cathy is an AHBA judge, an AKC judge and co-author of the book “Teaching the Rules
of the Hunt.” You can learn more about Cathy, her dogs and her accomplishments at www.summernyranch.com
HANA FULLMER
Hana Fullmer apprenticed under Cathy and now has her own facility. She is especially knowledgeable in understanding the
struggles folks experience when first starting herding and brings a fresh perspective. Her soft style and insight into a dog’s mind is a valuable tool in herding. You can read more about Hana and her accomplishments at www.tierravidafarm.com
https://onlineentries.formstack.com/forms/d_d_mini_ranch_november_21_22
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 deep 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:
- Working Session with Cathy Sumeracki
- Working Session with Hana Fullmer
- Structured Learning Block (no dogs): video review, exercises, and understanding checks
This structure ensures continuous learning rather than passive waiting for turns.
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 ...
CATHY SUMERACKI
Cathy has been herding for close to 20 years and is a stickler for a solid foundation. She is known for her creative approach,
easy to follow materials and keen understanding of the dog’s perspective. Cathy works with all breeds and students at all
levels. Many of her students now work at advanced levels and two of them now run their own herding facilities. She has
competed in all herding venues in all stock with multiple champions in AHBA, AKC, and ASCA. Her camps always include
tips and tricks on running courses. Cathy is an AHBA judge, an AKC judge and co-author of the book “Teaching the Rules
of the Hunt.” You can learn more about Cathy, her dogs and her accomplishments at www.summernyranch.com
HANA FULLMER
Hana Fullmer apprenticed under Cathy and now has her own facility. She is especially knowledgeable in understanding the
struggles folks experience when first starting herding and brings a fresh perspective. Her soft style and insight into a dog’s mind is a valuable tool in herding. You can read more about Hana and her accomplishments at www.tierravidafarm.com
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Where is it happening?
20026 E Superstition Dr, Queen Creek, AZ 85142-9758, United States
Event Location & Nearby Stays:
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