Description

90:/5 Fall 2024 Season

Dog: Abby
of Akron Club member Betty Zanoskar

Season Champ: Davison, Michigan

Abby Honored on 90:/5 Fall 2024 K9 Frisbee League Patch

A Story of Dedication, Inclusion, and Inspiration for Those with Physical Disabilities

In the world of K9 Frisbee, few teams can claim the dedication and longevity of Betty Zanoskar and her 13-year-old Australian Cattle Dog, Abby. Together, they’ve participated in an impressive 38 seasons of the K9 Frisbee Worldwide League with the Akron, Ohio K9 Frisbee Club.

As a testament to their commitment, Abby has been honored on the commemorative embroidered patch for the 90:/5 Fall 2024 Season, which begins on Saturday, September 28.

But what makes Betty and Abby’s story truly remarkable is not just their long tenure but the physical challenges Betty overcomes to continue participating in the League. Born the same year as the iconic Barbie doll, Betty lives with multiple sclerosis (MS), a chronic disease of the central nervous system that now limits her mobility. Despite the difficulties, Betty rarely misses a League season, always showing up for Abby because, as she puts it, “She needs to run and play.”

Betty’s story is one of perseverance, love for her dog, and passion for a sport that she found later in life. It’s also a story that encourages anyone, especially those with physical disabilities, to give the K9 Frisbee League a try.

A PERFECT OUTLET FOR DOGS AND HANDLERS ALIKE

Throughout her life, Betty was a horse person – a lover of both the 4-legged types and the Harley-Davidson iron variety. “I was in my 50s when I got Abby, my first dog. I rescued her when she was maybe 4 years old and a typical high-drive cattle dog,” Betty remembers. “I needed an outlet we could both do, and the new Frisbee League was a perfect fit.”

K9 Frisbee is an excellent outlet for high-energy dogs like Abby. The League provides a structured, engaging way for dogs to get the physical activity they need to stay healthy and happy. Even for handlers with physical disabilities, whether tossing a Frisbee in the air, or throwing rollers where the disc is rolled along the ground, playing the game ensures that both dog and handler stay active.

ADAPTABILITY FOR ALL PHYSICAL ABILITIES

The K9 Frisbee League stands out for its flexibility and inclusiveness. Local clubs are willing to make any necessary accommodations to allow individuals with physical disabilities to participate fully. For Betty, this means using a wheeled walker during rounds and having an assistant help manage Abby.

“The recent addition of “rollers” to the League rules makes the game even more accessible. This option opens the door for many people who might not have the strength or mobility to toss a Frisbee but still want to engage in a fun, rewarding activity with their dog.” encorages Betty.

COMMINITY AND SUPPORT

One of the biggest benefits Betty has found in the K9 Frisbee League is the sense of community. “When you have a physical disability, it can be intimidating to compete with those who don’t, embarrassing to ask for help, or feel pressure to perform,” said Betty. “In K9 Frisbee League, there’s none of that. The people in my Club are great. Everyone is welcoming, encouraging, and helpful.”

This supportive and inclusive environment is one of the League’s hallmarks. Whether it’s helping someone with their dog or offering encouragement during a tough day, the camaraderie between players is strong. For people with physical disabilities, the fear of being judged or not being able to participate fully is erased in a community that values teamwork and mutual support.

MENTAL AND EMOTIONAL WELL-BEING

For many people with physical disabilities, participating in activities like K9 Frisbee isn’t just about physical exercise; it’s also a way to improve mental and emotional well-being. Betty emphasizes that K9 Frisbee gives her a reason to get out, socialize, and engage with both her dog and her community. It’s a refreshing break from everyday challenges, and the bond with Abby has only grown stronger through their shared love for the sport.

AFFORDABLE AND ACCESSIBLE

One of the reasons K9 Frisbee League is so popular is because it’s incredibly affordable and easy to get started. All you need is a dog, a Frisbee, and access to a local League Club. The low cost of participation makes it an ideal activity for people from all walks of life, including those with disabilities who may have other financial constraints due to medical costs.

The League’s low-pressure environment and welcoming attitude mean that players can join at any skill level and with any ability. As Betty points out, “There’s no pressure, everyone helps, and it really is a family-friendly environment.”

MOTIVATION TO STAY ACTIVE

For individuals with physical disabilities, maintaining an active lifestyle can be challenging. But the K9 Frisbee League provides a built-in motivation: your dog. Betty says that, despite the difficulties she faces, she continues to participate in the League because it’s what Abby loves. “There are some days I don’t want to go, but I do it for Abby,” she says.

Having a dog to keep active is a great motivator, and the League offers the perfect outlet for both the handler and the dog to stay engaged and healthy.

ENCOURAGING OTHER TO GIVE IT A TRY

As the Fall 2024 Season approaches, Betty encourages anyone, especially those with physical disabilities, to find a local K9 Frisbee Club and give the League a try. “I especially encourage anyone with a physical disability who owns a dog to give K9 Frisbee League a try,” she urges. “Of all the activities or sports you could do with your dog, K9 Frisbee League is the easiest to play. And now that rollers are allowed, that opens the door for a lot more people.”

If you have a dog who loves to run, chase, and catch, K9 Frisbee League could be the perfect fit. The League offers a unique opportunity for individuals of all abilities to enjoy time outdoors, bond with their dogs, and become part of a supportive community. As Betty’s story shows, physical limitations don’t have to hold you back. K9 Frisbee League is about fun, connection, and doing what’s best for your dog.

FIND YOUR LOCAL K9 FRISBEE CLUB

For anyone interested in joining, the League’s website, www.TossAndFetch.com, offers all the information you need to find a local Club or even start your own. With a welcoming community and a flexible, easy-to-learn game, K9 Frisbee League is a great way for anyone—regardless of physical ability—to enjoy an active and fulfilling activity with their dog.

As Betty continues to show up for Abby and the League, her story reminds us all that where there’s passion and love for your dog, anything is possible.