Melissa Tilley and dog Sloan to compete on Team USA at 2026 Pan-Am Canicross Championships in Mexico

GRANGER, Ind. -- What started as a way to get some energy out quickly became something much bigger for Michiana resident Melissa Tilley and her 5-year-old Labradoodle Sloan.

Tilley and Sloan were nominated to represent Team USA at the 2026 Pan-Am Canicross Championships in Mexico this November.

Tilley, a General Practice Veterinarian at Kryder & Harr Veterinary Clinic, says, "It was very unexpected when we got the email that we had qualified and were chosen. So, but we're pretty happy. But no, it was never an absolute goal or anything like that."

They use a pulling harness to make it easier for Sloan to propel Tilley to move forward. This nomination comes with a lot of training. Sloan trains in a water treadmill to avoid injury. They also try and run together a couple times a week.

You can follow along their journey on Sloan's Facebook page.