About Scent Savvy Canine Center

What it is

A scent-sport center rather than a general obedience school. Two disciplines are published. Barn Hunt: "Barn hunt is a nose work sport where your dog has to locate rats (in tubes) hidden on a straw bale course. Dogs of any age, breed, background or ability will enjoy this game." Scent Work: "Scent work is a sport that mimics the task of working detection dogs to locate a scent and communicate to the handler that the scent has been found. This is an enjoyable sport for all breeds." The site lists it under "UKC & AKC" and says "We offer classes throughout all skill ranges."

Who runs it

Laura Doerfner, who introduces herself and the farm in the same breath: "My name is Laura Doerfner. I have been married to my husband, Joe, for 28 years (and counting), mom to 4 grown children and proud grandma of 3 grandsons. I grew up mostly in Perry, Mi where I was involved in 4H and FFA. In 2003, My husband and I moved our hobby horse farm to a 37 acre property in Henderson. It is definitely our personal Garden of Eden."

Her own dogs led her into the sports: "Currently, I have two German Shepherds. I purchased Liesel (Czech Border Patrol and WGWL lines) as a personal protection dog, but soon discovered my love for showing and dog sports. Liesel unfortunately prefers her duties at home as opposed to the show world. Enter Jaxon, WGSL and WGWL lines. He loves the show world and everyone in it. Our passions so far have been Barnhunt, Nosework, FastCat, Lure Coursing, Conformation and Rally."

Why the center exists

It was opened to fill a local gap, and it is new. "Over the last year, Alesha and I had been toying with the idea of opening a training center in our area. Our community has a need for something local, as we are always traveling a distance for training. When Coach Karli, from Michigan Barn Hunt Club approached us with a mentoring opportunity, we jumped on it. We are honored to be learning from one of, if not the best, Barn Hunt Trainer in Michigan." The site asks for input on what to add next: "Please let us know what kinds of classes you would like to see."

The goal, in her words

"Our goal is to strengthen the bond with your pet, while helping you to make them a respectable member of the community. Any dream is possible when you and your best friend are a team!"

Where it is

"Scent Savvy Canine Center, 6855 N Bingham Rd, Henderson, MI 48841."

Before you book

Ask about class prices and schedules, and who teaches each class besides Laura and Alesha.