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Steppin’ Paws Drill Team

Where Paws Meet Applause!

 

The Steppin’ Paws Canine Drill Team is made up of dedicated volunteers from the Truckee Meadows Dog Training Club. Our team members generously donate their time to perform at a variety of local venues, including residential senior communities, rehabilitation facilities, and schools. In addition to performing entertaining routines, we educate children about safe and positive interactions with dogs. Our visits are designed to bring joy, provide education, and create lasting memories for residents, staff, and children.

Our Volunteers

​The Steppin’ Paws handlers and their dogs have undergone years of training. This extensive preparation ensures that both handlers and dogs are well-equipped to work harmoniously together. Many of the Steppin’ Paws dogs are registered Therapy Dogs, having met rigorous obedience and temperament  requirements. Together, our skilled handlers and compassionate canines are dedicated to making a positive impact in our community while also demonstrating responsible dog ownership.

 

Our training focuses on creativity and showmanship so that handlers can bring out their dog’s personality and charisma. Routines consist of obedience, tricks, holiday themed skits, and Rally-FrEe (Rally maneuvers with creative artistry). At its heart, the TMDTC Steppin’ Paws Drill Team is a celebration of the unique partnership between humans and dogs, all while giving back to the community.

Meet Zebbi, the Certified Therapy Horse (and Occasional Canine Impersonator)

The Steppin Paws Drill Team enjoyed a stroke of remarkable luck in 2023 with the arrival of Zebbi. Zebbi’s presence has been a major draw for the community, especially the children, many of whom had never encountered a mini-horse before. 

 

Zebbi isn’t just any horse—he’s a Certified Therapy Mini-horse, which means he’s basically a licensed cuddle expert. Owned and handled by Catherine, who’s been his mom since he was a wee foal. Zebbie’s attends our visits when his busy schedule allows.

 

At first, the dogs were a little confused. They took one look at Zebbi and thought, “Wow, that’s the biggest dog we’ve ever seen!” But once they realized he wasn’t about to fetch or chase his tail, the dogs decided he must be a friendly equine alien—or maybe just a really tall dog with a great hairdo.

 

Now, Zebbi’s a horse with an identity crisis. He’s now convinced he’s a big dog, which is adorable, except for the fact that he tries to sit on his owner’s lap.  Picture this: a 250-pound “lap-horse” who thinks he’s a Chihuahua.

 

Zebbi is always ready to offer up his golden mane for a bit of creative physical therapy. Residents get to braid his beautiful mane—not only does it help with dexterity, but rumor has it Zebbi’s mane is now the most stylish hairdo in town. A big thank you to Catherine for volunteering her time with the Steppin’ Paws!

Drill Team FAQ

  • What does the Steppin' Paws Drill Team perform at visits?

    • We perform trick shows, skits, obedience and child safety education around dogs.

  

  • Where does the Steppin’ Paws perform?

    • We perform in the Reno, Sparks, Carson City area at rehabilitation facilities, senior living communities, foster care, and schools giving educational talks on safe interactions with dogs.

  

  • Who can join the Steppin’ Paws?

    •  Any member of TMDTC can join.

  

  • How can I join the Steppin' Paws Drill Team?

    •  There are two ways to explore more about the joining the Steppin’ Paws Drill Team before making a commitment.

      • You and your dog are welcome to attend a practice. Practice dates can be found on the Club Calendar. (hyperlink to calendar)

      • Enroll in Tricks 102/Drill Team/Freestyle to introduce your dog performance dog sports.  (hyperlink to the class)

 

  • What are the benefits of joining the Steppin’ Paws Drill Team?

    • Get involved and make new friends in the club. Bring joy and give back to the community. Earn volunteer hours for off-site performances. Improve your dog’s confidence and focus skills. 

  

  • What skills does my dog need to join the Steppin’ Paws?

    • Sit, down, stay, heel, and be able to perform at least two tricks. We do recommend that your dog has already taken a couple of classes at TMDTC to be sure your dog is comfortable working around other dogs. 

 

  • Are the dogs off-leash at performances?  

    • No, dogs are always on a leash.

 

  • What is the time obligation?

    • Attend monthly practices and be willing to practice at home.

  

  • What skills do I need to join?

    • A supportive team attitude and a keen interest in dog training.

  

  • Do I need to attend every performance?

    • No. While performances are not mandatory, we’d love to see you share your dog’s talents.  We just ask that you make best efforts when your schedule allows.

  

  • Is there a cost to join the Steppin’ Paws Drill Team?

    • No. However you must be a TMDTC member.

  

  • Can a handler with a disability join the Steppin’ Paws?

    • Yes. We are dedicated to supporting individuals with disabilities and often integrate mobility aids into the routine.

  

  • Does my dog need to be a purebred or have AKC titles?

    • No. Your dog does not need to be a purebred or have titles. There are no judges, no pressure, and no mistakes––just lots of laughs and and a fun sport for those who wish to train their dog to a high level.  The team captures the spirit of lighthearted, joyful dog activities where the focus is on fun, creativity, and community—not perfection or competition.

  

  • If I have a registered Therapy Dog, can I join the Steppin’ Paws at performances without being on the Steppin’ Paws Drill Team?

    •  Yes!!  We’d love to have more Therapy Dogs hang out with us at our gigs.  Just let Vikki or Barb know you would like to be notified of the dates and venues of our performances. You must be a TMDTC member.

 

  • I’m not sure if my dog is smart enough to perform for an audience.

    • ALL dogs are smart and no two dogs are alike, nor do they learn at the same pace. Yet, the most important ingredient for a well-trained dog isn’t just about the dog—it’s the owner’s skills and dedication. That’s why Truckee Meadows’ motto is:  “We train you to train your dog.”

Contact Info

TMDTC members interested in learning more about the Steppin’ Paws or training questions, please contact Vikki Foley-Boyd theclickertrainer@gmail.com

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If you are a facility interested in booking the Steppin’ Paws for a performance, please contact Barb Terrell at barbaraterrell367@gmail.com  to inquire about availability.

In Memory

Andie 4/20/2010––4/19-/2025

Owned by Jen Yoshimura

Hawker 12/6/2011––2/22/2023

Owned by Kenlyn

Andie

 

Andie the Weimaraner, sleek and gray, 
With eyes like moonlight, she never looked away.

She spun in a circle, then sit and she’d stay,
Learning new tricks nearly every day.

 

Her ears a flutter as she runs around the ring,
Bounding with joy, always wearing her bling.
 

But no matter the game, no matter the prize,

She could not remove her gaze from her Jen’s eyes.

 

A “Velcro dog” they’d say, always close by Jen’s side,

With loyalty deep as the ocean is wide.

​

Hawker

 

Kenlyn’s hands, so gentle and steadying,
She learned the art of dog training, never blaming.

 

Hawker, a handsome boy….like an Orvis model,

 And when his work was done, he was ready to cuddle.


Gentleness was Hawker’s true crown,
A calm companion, never letting Kenlyn down.

 

But in our hearts, Hawker’s light will not wane,
An everlasting glow that will remain.

 

Now, Koda will step in, never bad,

For there are more ribbons to be had.

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