one of our canine friends through a course that they’ve never encountered before. It typically contains all manner of obstacles, such as jumps or hurdles. “We teach them how to run cleaner and faster,” Andrew states. “How to achieve greater accuracy. There’s a lot of variables that the dog needs to be introduced to. As well, as the dog’s handler you need to hone your own skills—like with any sport!” In addition to their own business—Agility Thunder—Susan and Andrew are also heavily involved in the Middlesex Agility Club, where they pool their resources and share knowledge with other enthusiasts. “Agility training challenges your dog mentally and physically,” Andrew explains. “It’s great for pooches of all temperament and people of all ages. It’s also a great way to improve your bond with your dog. Because that’s what it all boils down to. Improving your bond with your best friend.” If you’re interested in taking agility courses with Susan and Andrew are invited to reach out to them at www.agilitythunder.ca. Those interested in having their pets featured in future issues are welcome to send their images and descriptions to: michael@villagerpublications.com. Though recently, Jason came to broader attention for staging a daring rescue mission. A local father posted to Facebook about how his daughter got her rocket stuck in a tree. “I happened to see the post, and it struck a chord with me,” Jason states. “My Dad, cousins, and I used to fly rockets. It’s something we all still do together as a family. As a father myself, I know that these things can have such sentimental value.” So, one Sunday afternoon, despite his busy schedule, Jason decided to guide those tiny astronauts back to Earth. “I climbed a tree, swung out onto a branch, and freed the stuck rocket,” Jason recalls. “I climb trees like this everyday, so I’m happy that my skills did something positive for our community!” More information on Jason is available on Instagram: @jasonklimbs and at www.koalatree.ca.
Pet of the Month: Torch
Much like his namesake, Torch tends to brighten any room he wanders into. “He’s a happy little guy!” Susan Jarrell Schlueter states. “He loves life. He’s always got a smile on his face. He’s always prancing around. Whenever we take him for a walk, people are always coming up to us to say how much they love his dancing.” “He loves everyone,” her husband Andrew explains.
Torch is a six-year-old Australian shepherd. He sports a unique blue merle colour, which makes him stand out among his peers. He’s also already something of a star! A few years ago, he briefly appeared on an episode of the Amazing Race Canada. What’s more, he’s also a skilled agility dog. Susan and Andrew have a combined half a century’s worth of experience training agility dogs. The sport involves guiding
A Daring Rescue Jason Korkidakis is obsessed with trees. “I’ve always loved the forest and nature,” Jason explains. “We often see trees as these looming, static things, but they’re these rich living organisms dwelling all around us. They’re so helpful—they literally provide the air we breathe! We
have the ability to test nutrients in the soil, find out what a particular tree is lacking, and prescribe injections to assist them to thrive. They even have their own distinct communication cycle.” Jason has a bit of an exhaustive resume. He’s an ISA-certified Arborist and Risk Specialist who owns and operates Koala Tree, a company that handles everything from tree health to risk mitigation. He’s an inventor with products that help arborist all over the world. In addition, when there’s time left in the day, he also teaches about climbing and caring for trees.
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KKD Villager July/August 2026
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