DavietheDog

Davie's little sister

2012-03-04T13:37:00.000-08:00

After much soul searching, breeder investigation and a lot of mind changes the decision was made, we are going to get a Bluetick Coonhound puppy. The dog choice this time was the guy who lives in this place with us. We had looked a a coonhound rescue but decided that a puppy would be a better option for Davie and for other reasons. This was a very hard decision because there are so many dogs out there needing homes and I always feel guilty passing on them. But as my wise other half said," You can't wait another ten years to get a pup, you'll be too old for a coonhound pup!" Well thanks a lot, but he is right, so many things can change and Davie is so good with puppies that he deserves one of his own. So the search for a reputable breeder began and it wasn't easy because I am very fussy. I know some super breeders in the area of different breeds so I knew what I wanted in a breeder. And it would have been so much easier to go with one of them but I am a scent hound person, there is something about them that connects directly to my heart. And above all dog activities I am addicted to trailing/tracking. But I think herding may give that addiction a run for the money as Davie and I get into it more. So I will have the perfect pair a BC and a coonhound.

I was very fortunate to stumble upon a Bluetick breeder who was featured in the Animal Planets Dogs 101. Davis Branch Blueticks is located in Shelbyville, Tennessee which is about 90 kilomters south and slightly east of Nashville. I emailed Wendy and found out that she had two females that would be giving birth towards the end of February. So after numerous emails the decision was made. They are a long way away from Prince George and this will be the first puppy to become a Canadian.

On February 21st, Fat Tuesday, Pancake Tuesday, or Shrove Tuesday L'il Lucy Lulu gave birth to eight puppies, 3 girls and 5 boys. And we get the pick of the girls. And no we aren't going to call her Pancake, she will have a true southern name. This is a picture of the 3 girls at 5 days of age. Miss Pink, Miss Mauve and Miss Purple.

And this is Mama Lucy Lu and her bunch. Isn't Mama Lucy a sweetheart?

Lucy Lulu and her babies

Wendy's second female, Cora gave birth to 12 puppies on February 29th! Too cool.

Wendy's website is

www.davisbranchblueticks.com.

You can also find them on FaceBook and see more puppy pictures including Cora's 12. And you can see a picture of Pokey Joe the proud papa of both litter.

That's all for now, flight to Nashville is booked, puppy is coming back in the cabin with me.

Davie had a Sleep over

2012-03-03T13:37:00.000-08:00

Davie and I went to visit border collies and horses yesterday with Fran. Davie got to play,"who can pee higher and more", with Nick. Fran got to ride and I got to watch. And I will confess for the first time in 35 years I rode a horse, just for maybe 10 minutes. And yes it was awesome and felt so good and so natural.

Davie also discovered a livestock trailer with three sheep!! I couldn't understand what he was doing, he kept sniffing it then going around one way and then the other. Well there were three sheep waiting to be unloaded!

Davie then stayed with his husky buddies for the day and night. It is the first time he has been away from home for the night. He was a little worried but had his best friends and Fran. It was good for him. But it was sure quiet around here. I kept wondering what to do with myself so I cleaned the house I didn't do the week before!

We had a great week snow shoeing, the weather has been beautiful, another big snow dump today, although this is snow man snow NOT snow shoeing snow. It is beautiful and sunny out right now.

Here are some pictures from last Sunday's snow shoe with Catja and two of the huskies.

Catja and Ivan checking things out

Best Buddies

Ivan

Crap this tree hole is deeper than I thought!

Furry bums

Border Collie fly by!

Are you coming??

Coming soon, pictures and information on Davie's new sister from the south!! Are you curious yet???

Snow Shoeing and other stuff.

2012-02-24T15:19:00.000-08:00

It has been an awesome week for snow shoeing, other than one very sticky day we have either snow shoed or walked every day this week except today and it has been great. It is currently snowing like crazy so we thought we would take a break and clean the house. We haven't got around to that yet. We were playing out in the snow when a pretty gold husky came wandering into the yard. Luckily she had on a city tag and they were able to contact the owners who came to pick her up. She was very good at tugging and had an awesome sit and down. Her and Davie chased to jolly ball and leather ring. Although she preferred treats. Smart girl too, two tries and she had nose touches down flat and her mom said she knew nothing about them. Said she didn't give her treats anymore because she got too pushy. Of course big mouth here said, "Well you should teach her tricks, because she is a fast learner and loves it." Maybe she might listen? She is a lovely dog. Anyway needless to say Gigi used up a good portion of our house cleaning time, or how about I am using that as an excuse.

Davie went for a visit to our vets this morning, he was providing moral support for Ivan and Lexi, the two youngest of his husky buddies. I was there to add a second set of arms. Two dogs and two people is much easier than one person and two dogs. Then Davie went in for a visit. He was very good, pretty timid when we first went in but warmed up nicely. He had them sitting on the floor feeding him liver treats. You have to love a vet clinic that loves animals enough to have real treats and take the time to do this with a visiting dog. We will do more visits, I have been neglectful, as I was going to take him there every couple of months so he would be used to the place before he had to go for a real visit.

Training learning's from this week.

I let Davie play with his buddy Rune too much lately, he decided he doesn't have to play with me if there are other dogs around, so we were on a "Runeless" diet this week. Monday we went into the centre and he kept looking at the door, saying, "Well were is he." Answer was sorry, so sad, too bad but you only get to play with me. He wasn't thrilled at first but was better by the end. Which was very good considering his little buddy was in the training centre next door and he knew he was there because he could hear him. Davie was almost back to normal Wednesday and today. He was tugging and playing like a crazy man this morning.He was good at home or out in the bush but had decided the centre was the dog play place. I learn soo much from this guy!! We started jump class this week, it is so interesting to watch the dogs learn. I love this about taking classes, watching the different dogs and handlers.

That's it for this post. Here are some pictures from yesterday's snow shoe in the beautiful sun.

They're off!!

Should read "Big Mouth" Hill

Squirrel??

Crystals

Big fir trees

Big Hill, not BA hill another one of many on our trails

Love the lichen and other fungi

Man on the move!

Davie and his Buddy Rune

2012-02-14T10:43:00.000-08:00

I couldn't resist doing a special post to show some fabulous pictures Rune's people took of the two buddies when we went for a visit to learn how to dremmel Davie's nails. I have always been chicken to use a dremmel on nails but it is so easy. Well, Davie makes it pretty easy. Anyway thank you so much Cassie and Sheldon, these pictures are wonderful. Sorry there maybe a few too many but I had a hard time picking!

Where is he??

Incoming!

A little to your right should do it

Here it comes!

Blast off!!


Air-born

How rude!

If I push him to the right

I can get it!

Flying bums

Okay this is how you hunt squirrels

Yep you take one side and I'll take the other, they won't have a chance!

What?? We have to go??

A year with Davie

2012-02-13T10:32:00.000-08:00

It was a year ago this past Saturday that I first met Davie. I had meant to do this post then but Davie and I seemed to have to much going on this weekend so it is happening this morning.

First I want thank all the people who have helped both Davie and I. The great people I train with, friends both two legged and four legged. And the special people who have given me confidence to get us through stages when I doubted I had the necessary skills. Thanks for being there for us.

I can not believe it has been a year since Operation Davie. Operation Davie was the drive from here to Edmonton to met my brother who so kindly volunteered to pick up Davie from Amanda. You have come a long way my boy in more ways than one. Davie has gone from a dog with little self confidence to a guy with so much more belief in himself. He still has a way to go but we will get there. He has gone from a dog who didn't want to herd sheep to this guy who suddenly went," Whoa, this is fun and what I do". This is the video from last October. We can't wait to start again this spring.

Davie has had many new experiences in the last year. He has learned that squirrels in BC live in the trees not on the ground. And that he has his own collection both live and stuffed. He has channeled his inner husky by learning to pull a cart and a sled with his husky buddies. He has learned how to go off leash in the bush and come back when he is called or whistled. He has learned a lot of behaviors, tricks and is working on the basics for agility and Rally. He has made me a much better trainer. He has definitely made me a believer in Say Yes Dog training. And above all else we have had so much fun.

One of our favorite things in the past year was our road trip to Saskatchewan. Davie is an awesome dog to travel with. We have had a lot of adventures and a lot of fun and I will admit some frustrations and some tears. I love this crazy guy. I have so many pictures I couldn't decide which ones to chose. So this is a random selection from the past year. Most of all it is to show Davie's new dog buddies. There are some missing like his two BC puppy buddies Wicklow and Diesel from classes. But I think we have most of the others.And of course I have included some of the famous Mudman pictures. I am not sure I really WANT spring to come. Davie has been so clean, but he claims his skin is suffering do to the lack of mud baths, snow baths just don't cut it for skin condition

http://youtu.be/gi_L1YFXVnk

We are so looking forward to the next year. Maybe this will be the year Davie gets a new buddy to keep him company.

Remembering Miss Abby

2012-02-03T18:53:00.000-08:00

It will be one year tomorrow since we helped Abby cross the Rainbow Bridge. It was her time, she had congestive heart failure and was failing fast. It was almost as if once she knew Davie was on his way she could pass the baton and wouldn't have to worry about me. I am sure she had willed herself to live for me once Maggie went unexpectedly the beginning of December. She went surrounded by the four people she loved the most.
Abby had a good long life, she turned 14 in December 2010. We shared a birthday because she came from the SPCA the beginning of February 1997 and was about 8 weeks old. So we decided she could share my birthday.
Abby was the perfect dog. She loved everyone and everything. She was confident, out going and always happy. The only time her tail stopped was when she was sleeping. She was also my Caretaker. She looked after me through a bad hip and a hip replacement as well as cuddled when she knew I needed it.She was the one that got us into agility. She did it for me not because she was crazy about it. I used to get heck from Kim for always nagging her by saying, Abby, Abby, Abby!
She walked probably thousands of miles with me, first alone then with Maggie, then with Ludmilla and Benji then also Catja. Abby would bring up the rear. She learned that the first winter out in the bush when I cross country skied and almost ran over her. She always made sure no one was left behind no matter how many of us were on the trial. Her last winter we did short street walks which she loved. That little dog could pee more places in half a kilometer than any other dog I have known.
I still miss her although I know it was her time to go. I put together a little video tribute to her.

Plus this is her last agility run. She always had fun once she got going. Her favorite trick was to sit at the start line and start when she was good and ready!! But boy could she weave and move when she was ready. She did not like the titter as you can see. Even though we had our own she still didn't like it. Said it gave her motion sickness!! But I loved that little dog. We had sooo much fun together!
Please give all your dogs an extra hug tonight. They teach us so much and are never here long enough.

Sticky Snow shoe

2012-01-29T14:22:00.000-08:00

I am updating the Blog using BlogPress for iPad so we will see how this works. Our so called main computer's hard drive failed Friday night. It is only eight months old so that really sucks. And it will take two weeks to get it back even though it is under warranty. So this is an experiment. I'm thinking the next computer is a Mac!

Davie has been playing with puppies again. This time he had one who was herding him.

YouTube Video

It snowed about 25 cm yesterday but then warmed up to +3 over night so needless to say the snow was sticky and the water was pouring down from the trees. Davie and Catja didn't seem to mind.

Posted using BlogPress from my iPad

Davie's Birthday

2012-01-21T11:28:00.000-08:00

We started with a play at the centre with Rune the Toller puppy. They had a blast, Davie is so good with puppies, he just loves them. Here are some pictures thanks to Rune's mom.

Hey I'm the Duck Toller, that's my duck!

Got it!

I can really run fast!

Please can I have it???

See I can share with the puppy!

Next we went to see Dena at the Dog Gone Bakery to pick up Davie's birthday cake. Dena is his favorite person at the DGB, sorry Cindy but she is number 1!

Then we headed out to share cake with the huskies and their buddies. Sorry no outside pictures, the camera battery died!!

Sammy

Deva, the rescue. Such a sweet girl!

Sharing cake with Sammy and Old Man Pabs

Then it was off to see Catja and Benji and share more cake.

Davie was waiting outside, he was more interested in playing than in eating more cake!

Davie's normal position, nose almost up front dog's butt

Then we headed home for a rest. I think Davie had an excellent birthday.

He needed a rest in his too small dog bed which he prefers to the right sized one!!

Happy Birthday Davie

2012-01-20T18:07:00.000-08:00

It is Davie's third birthday today. He had a lot of fun today. We will post tomorrow on what we did for birthday fun. And a big thanks to Jenny for sending me puppy pictures so I know what he looked like as a wee one.

The cute puppy

The handsome guy

I likes bones

And I still like bones!

So winter arrived.

2012-01-18T15:07:00.000-08:00

Yep it is cold out there, but Davie being the tough prairie boy doesn't seem to mind -30 as long as he has boots on. And if he is running around doesn't even need them.

Don't say anything about my boots! Hummm maybe I need camo ones.

We have curtailed our bush walks as it probably isn't a wise idea to venture out that far at these temperatures. So we have been going to the training centre every morning to work on things and then just roar around to release some energy. Today the wind is finally gone so -30 didn't feel too bad especially if you were in the sun, gone is the -44 wind chill.
Since it was so sunny out this morning we decided to drive around Prince George before going training and take some pictures. Here are just a few, I promise.

Ornamental Grasses at UNBC botanical gardens

More grasses

Cold

Nechako river steaming

Loaded logging truck

Then we stopped at Catja and Benji's to play in the sunny backyard.

I thought you said that way!!

Are we reaaaady!!

What??? You don't like my orange booties?

Energy release

I'm going that way.

Even old guys play!

The out run begins

Pretty girl in red booties!!

Got you by the ear, don't move or I will pull it off, or do serious damage!!

How would you like a little less ruff??

Now a bit off this side to even you out!

I seem to have blown off my front boots!

I have frozen dog spit on my face!

Busy Weekend

2012-01-16T10:20:00.000-08:00

Davie had a busy weekend, which is good because it maybe a slow week. Current temperature with the wind chill is -44. The wind dies down tomorrow and the temperature plummets to lows of -34 for a few days. We may not be doing a lot outside. Maybe time to concentrate on trick training? I must be getting soft in my old age. I remember weeks of -30s and it never really slowed things down.

Friday night we went out to the barn to watch people practice agility and do some distraction training. This was Davie's second time out at the barn. I swear the first time we went out last week he walked on looked at me and said, "So where are the sheep? What's with this funny looking stuff?" We did a lot of tugging and sits, downs, nose touches etc. while other dogs where running the agility equipment. Davie was pretty focused on playing with me. Once he figured out he wasn't going to go dog herding.

Reaaaaaaaaaaaady?

Not sure who has a bigger mouth!

Got it!

Vicious guy

Hey, you with the camera, bug off I'm playing!

Saturday we spent all day at the Top Dog Agility Trial. Davie watched from his crate, while I helped with the trial. But he did get to visit a lot of people and dogs. He did really well considering the commotion around the place. We did work up in the stands on downs, sits, backup etc. He paid excellent attention considering the dogs running the course. It was a long day for both of us.

Kimber from Eromit Labradors

Isn't she a beauty?

The Sunday we went to a Rally Obedience Trial. I entered Davie in Novice even though I knew he wasn't ready for a full course. The idea was to expose him to a different environment in the training centre. He is used to going there for classes and seeing the same dogs. This gave him a new perspective of the place. He did the first few stations alright then became to verklempt so we just heeled around the room and went out. He was a happy guy as we left. And this was the whole idea. With Davie it is more about exposure to new situations and giving him confidence than about doing a competition. We have lots of time to do that when he gains more confidence.

Just checking, did you read it correctly?

Just heeling

So after all this mental stimulation Davie needed stress relief. And if it is too windy and cold to go for a long hike where do you go? But of course you go to visit the huskies, so off we went. I love watching them play together, it is so wonderful to watch the interaction. Davie left a tired and happy guy.

The pack, notice I am on the inside taking to picture!

Hey Shiloh, need some help?

The Quiet of January

2012-01-10T16:05:00.000-08:00

Well Molly has gone home and Davie's singing buddy has gone back to Japan, so things a pretty quiet.
We had a great lunch over the holidays with Dr. P and caught up on what she has been doing over the past year. She was Abby and Maggie's favorite vet until she moved to Alberta. We miss her. But on the happy side Davie got to meet her. He approved!

No snow shoeing in sight. At lease everything is now froze and it is okay walking in the bush, just stay off the lumpy skating rinks, I mean streets. The ice is horrible. Luckily the yard is still mainly snow so lots of room to play. I really dislike rain in January! But I better be careful what I wish for I just checked pictures from January 2011 and we didn't have a lot more snow, in fact probably less. And then it arrived!

There is more in there!

Yummy moose neck bones

Must remember to keep on the bone blanket.

Happy New Year

2012-01-01T10:24:00.000-08:00

Happy 2012 to everyone.

Davie went sledding today

2011-12-30T19:05:00.000-08:00

Davie went dog sledding with the huskies today and boy did he have fun. He got impatient with the huskies and got to be lead dog. Could you tell he was excited?? Does almost constant barking say yes! Many thanks to Francesca and the huskies for letting us tag along and Brad for the awesome pictures. And many thanks to Sally for letting us use her trails and carrying me on the skidoo in front so Davie got the hang of what he was supposed to do!!

Deva and Lexi the lead dogs, Ivan and Shiloh the wheel dogs.

Incredible sky and light

Ivan, pooped let Davie take over

Davie the lead dog, Shiloh and Lexi in wheel

Woo Hooo this is fun!!

Merry Christmas

2011-12-25T08:47:00.000-08:00

From the Reindeer Dogs,who don't like their antlers!!

Molly, the Christmas guest

Could I just shake them instead of wearing them??

Benji

Catja

Finally I can get rid of these!!

Today's Walk

2011-12-23T17:36:00.000-08:00

Davie is a happy guy, his singing buddy is here from Japan. Davie hasn't forgotten how to sing. They are trying to get a tune figured out that they can sing together. Here's some pictures from today's walk.

View from the ridge trail

In a hurry must turn quickly

Molly and Catja with Davie's singing buddy

Quick I need to pass, PLEEEASE

A Visitor for the Holidays

2011-12-18T09:39:00.000-08:00

Davie has a friend staying over for the holidays. Her name is Molly. She is a sweetie.

Random Snow Pictures

2011-12-16T12:02:00.000-08:00

Can I get it?

I know it's here!

Got it!

Lost it!

Woooo Hooooo

What?

We have a rough life.

2011-12-15T15:19:00.000-08:00

Davie's first Dog Sled

2011-12-04T16:24:00.001-08:00

Davie had his first sled pulling experience today. He was a little concerned when I was taking the video but when I got on the sled he figured it was fun.

Lexi and Ivan waiting for their turn

Deva and Shiloh

Great example of the variations in Siberian Husky appearance.

More Snow

2011-12-01T17:56:00.001-08:00

It snowed again on Tuesday and snow shoeing is back. It was so beautiful yesterday. These are a few pictures from Yesterday's trek.

The elusive Bush Bunny and friend

We're off!!

Strange Things

2011-11-28T10:24:00.001-08:00

The snow shoeing was great until the big winds and big melt hit on Saturday night. We have encountered strange aliens on out treks.

Busy Week.

2011-11-22T16:51:00.001-08:00

We had about 25 cm of snow last Wednesday so has made for fantastic snow shoeing and happy dogs. Unfortunately it has warmed up so now we are getting sticky snow and sloppy streets. You can never win in the in between season.

Davie and I attended a dog stretch class on Saturday evening. I had taken the weekend seminar on this about 5 years ago so this was a refresher. It is so interesting to watch a group of excited dogs sound asleep on their blankets after a good massage. So Davie now gets one after some of his crazy bush runs.

Then on Sunday we went to two seminars at Pawsitive Steps. The first one was Jump start your puppy/young dog and the second one was on shaping. They were super seminars. And thank goodness I have done more than a few correct things with Davie. I also got some great tips and instruction on what we needed to work on. These seminars are always so much fun, not just watching the dogs but hanging out with a great bunch of people.

We went and played in the snow today in a big field and I tried to get some good pictures of the three amigos. So here are a few.

I KNOW you have treats!

Mine, ha ha!!

Can you breath? No, good!

Just pure fun

Standoff

Wow nice place!

Come on are you sure you don't have any treats

Happy, CLEAN dog

2011-11-14T11:20:00.001-08:00

Well it looks like the snow may have arrived for good on the weekend. And Davie is very happy, lots of snow baths and no more muddy dog. I think I am very happy too!

Happy Guy

Only one slight problem, since it has snowed the squirrels are less active.

Where are my squirrels?

Woo Hoo snow arrived last night!!

2011-11-06T13:36:00.000-08:00

And Davie is a happy guy! There was a lot of running, sniffing and snow bathing on our walk this morning. I love the first snow fall. It is always so interesting to see what has been out and about. This is when you can see what the dogs are tracking. We had a great walk. This shows our route today.

http://www.everytrail.com/view_trip.php?trip_id=1257527

Now Davie needs a rest!. If we walked almost 7 K, he must have done 30!

Too tired to climb the stairs

Could you bug off with the camera, can't a guy get a nap!

Practise

2011-11-03T11:16:00.000-07:00

Davie and I did some heeling and Rally practice yesterday. Videoing our sessions really helps me see my mistakes. There are a few in this one. He is getting very good a heeling. Please excuse the "vaseline" look of the video. There was a big smug on the lens I didn't notice until I watched these videos. It has since been removed!!
http://youtu.be/8sR3JEiKw-s

Halloween- warning to Brad do not look!

2011-11-01T10:43:00.000-07:00

Davie and I went trick or treating with the little kids down the street last night. Davie wasn't impressed with his Lady Bug costume, but if we took the hood off he was fine with it. He was awesome walking around with all the strange creatures out there. Maybe because he had a strange creature with him? It was a great experience for him. And it is so nice that fire works don't bother him!!

Bat Pumpkin

Davie the Laddie Bug - Please this is so humiliating!!

Davie and the strange creature with him, could you free my ears please?

Davie's favorite Beaver and the Skeleton

Seasons are Changing

2011-10-24T09:10:00.000-07:00

Sheep herding clinics are over until next year which is a sad because Davie was really good and I think I might have even learned a few things. So we are back to cleaning up and getting ready for winter, doing training at the centre and walking in the bush. Winter isn't far away there is snow up on the hills.

It's coming!!

Clematis Seeds

But to never let Davie settle into too boring of a routine we went to visit Willow the horse yesterday. Willow belongs to the huskies person. We saw some cute little guys that were born this past spring. They are getting really hairy, so does this mean we are in for a cold winter? Which is a pretty dumb question because winters are usually cold.

We decided to go out into the field with Willow and let Davie have a good run. He hadn't had a good field run since we left Saskatchewan. He had a ball and we practised our downs at a distance and it was a very far distance. He has the most beautiful out run. He also decided that riding with Willow was great. You honestly would have thought he had spent a lot of time with horses. Willow has grown up with border collies so she is comfortable with dogs. It was a great day and on the way home Davie got to play with the huskies

Willow and Davie

These are just random horse pictures because I love horses

Aren't I cute?

I just love this mare, she is so regal

Wow

2011-10-16T08:53:00.000-07:00

I think we are finally getting it. I know Davie is and I may be a little less confused. He was awesome yesterday. He made me so proud I was close to tears, I lie I was teary. And thanks to a great instructor and fellow dog people and a beautiful day. Oh and how could I forget, thanks to the great sheep!!

So here's the link to the video of run two. I might add that you also get a bit of comic relief from yours truly.

http://youtu.be/fpCgY4wxOhs

Sheep Herding Clinic

2011-10-14T18:43:00.000-07:00

Davie and I are taking out third clinic this weekend. Today was day one. Our other two clinics have been in the arena, this one is outside and it was a beautiful day. I have decided I am a definite klutz and need a clinic on how to work with sheep and move before I try to work with a dog! Poor Davie, sheep and me to put up with. Here is a short clip of us with me not knowing my one left from my other left. Apparently not knowing right from left intuitively is an actual diagnosable syndrome!!

Hopefully I will get my act together by tomorrow. Helllllllllllllllllllllllllp!

What's Up

2011-10-13T09:42:00.000-07:00

We have been home three weeks yesterday and it has been a busy three weeks. We went and looked after horses and dogs during out first week home. This is always fun because Davie gets to visit his husky friends.

The eye collection

Samantha the malamute sweetie

Kandy

The crew, Davie is hunting squirrels

This is the one husky that I think is a reincarnation of someone very important because she likes looking at herself in the bathroom mirror. This is what happens if the door is open and the light is on.

Mirror, mirror on the wall aren't I the fairest of them all!!!

The rest of the time we have been walking and cleaning up the yard to get ready for winter.

New friend Meggie

I have a big tongue

The only bears we have seen so far this year

The Road Home

2011-10-11T09:03:00.000-07:00

We headed off later in the morning stopping to check on cattle then off to Manyberries via Regina, Swift Current and Medicine Hat. The Trans Canada is not as interesting as the Red Coat Trial and far too busy to stop and take random pictures. So what did we leave behind . Have a look below.

A poor maple with chunks of bark missing from Davie grabbing it when hunting squirrels

A large hole and ditch from trying to bury a Jolly Ball or just having fun

Burdock, not sad to see the end of this monster.

Davie lost a good percentage of his ruff to the removal of burdock burrs. the record was 8 at one time!!

It is sad to see the demise of the old elevators but progress always comes at a price. I didn't have a chance to take a picture of some of the huge inland terminals that have replaced these old wooden guys. The Bender elevator is special as it is one of the few left standing and belongs to my parents. My grandfather and uncle also worked as agents at this elevator, so there are many familiar ghosts.

The Bender Elevator

This is what has replaced the old elevators

Manyberries old station

After spending the night in Manyberries we headed north to dinosaur country. I hadn't been in this area since I was about 10! The Tyrell Exhibit is fantastic and our timing was perfect, sunny, 18 degrees and very few people.

You can't fool me, he's a dummy

Bad Lands

We drove from Drumheller to Rocky Mountain House and spent the night there in the Best Western. Great hotel for dogs, the back door opens up into a huge field so we had lots of room to run off some of the excess energy from driving all day. Then crash between the beds.

Sleepy boy

It is a beautiful drive from RMH to the park, great road little traffic. I do appreciate the great roads in Alberta, even some of the less travelled are wonderful. I made a point of staying off the main roads as much as possible just to see different sights.

Saskatchewan Crossing

Ice fields

It's really snow!!!

It was a great trip and it was amazing what it did for Davie's self confidence. He came home a more settled and confident dog. But I think the best part of the trip was being able to meet Amanda and personally thank her for letting Davie come into our lives. Thank you Amanda!!

Old Buildings

2011-10-02T09:40:00.000-07:00

This post is not about Davie but is a collection of pictures of old buildings that we saw during out road trip. There is a certain sadness in looking at these places. You always wonder if the house misses the laughter of the families that used to live there. And sometimes in the wind that blows through the broken windows or holes in the walls I am sure you can hear the voices of generations past. I was shocked at how many buildings are now gone. In some places all you see to tell you there once was a farmyard is the groupings of caraganas, lilacs and Manitoba Maples. In other sites all that remains is one lonely big old tree. If those trees could only tell us their stories.

Old Sheep Station

Old church southern Saskatchewan

Bender Elevator

Hub Cafe in Kipling

Station in Kennedy - getting a new lease on life

Old slaughter house

My maternal grandparents house

Old School on Windthorst

Neelby Elevators

My great uncle's old house now the home of the turkey vultures

Bekevar Church-100 years old this year

Entrance to the church

Bender again

The leaning barn

Manyberries station

I missed a few places I should have taken pictures of, I only hope they are still standing for the next trip.

Bale Picking

2011-09-30T18:57:00.000-07:00

Davie had a blast hauling bales. It was really hard work for us, not. We drove the truck and the bale wagon. Davie got to get out and run when my brother was unloading. He had four very interesting days.

I am sure there are mice under here!

Mike and Lucy

Lucy

I can run and run and run!!

Full moon

Yep we did a good job!

The Farm

2011-09-26T11:20:00.000-07:00

So we arrived at the farm in a fantastic thunder storm, although it didn't last long enough for my liking. And so began our three weeks of Davie as a farm, almost, dog.

The elevator you will see in this blog is the old Bender elevator which was on a Canadian Pacific line abandoned in 1961.

Here are some of Davie's animal buddies in order of appearance. First the dogs, Lucy, Shorty and Kingston.

Lucy is not fond of other dogs but tolerated Davie, and he definitely understands dog language. One little lip curl from her and he would't follow quit so close.

And this was his cat"friend" for an afternoon.

Come out, please.

No I'm not watching the cat

Then there were the large squirrels that ran across the roof then down the big maple tree evey morning about 645. Guess how long we stayed in bed after that!

The cows and the calves. Davie was fascinated by them as much as the calves were fascinated by him but he did not chase. However having the squirrels to send him after definitely helped! Nor did he ever leave the house yard and go into the barn yard unless I invited him.

Next episode is all about hauling bales.

Grasslands to Moose Mountains

2011-09-24T12:18:00.000-07:00

Grasslands National Park is designated the darkest dark sky in Canada. The sky at night is unbelievable. you forget how many stars there are when you are always affected by some type of light pollution. And they are so close you are sure you could almost touch them. After a peaceful night in the tent, except for the howling coyotes which I am sure ran right by us we were off for a tour of the park

The Ecotour takes you right through the middle of the prairie dog town then down to an old abandoned homestead.

Prairie Dogs

After the tour it was time to get back on the Red Coat trial and head east to Carlyle then north to the Moose Mountains. It was a beautiful drive first through rolling country then some very flat country until we hit the Moose Mountains. And please British Columbia and Alberta people don't laugh they are called the Moose Mountains.

Wheat Field

Flat

One of many abandoned farm sites

Moose Mountains in the distance

At Carlyle we turned north to go through Moose Mountain Provincial park. I had to stop at Kenosse Lake to show Davie my old stomping grounds. I don't think he was really that impressed!

Another picture!

Down the Muddy Trail to Grasslands National Park

2011-09-23T08:53:00.000-07:00

We left Manyberries and headed south to 501, the "muddy" road that runs just north of the Montana border which took us into Saskatchewan. I took about 90 minutes to get to Consul were we got out of the mud. It was a beautiful trip. We saw 2 trucks and a lot of cattle.

How muddy was it, have a look at the truck, picture taken on Consul. The other side was worse. I cannot imagine what kind of a trip it must have been through this part of the country on horse back or worse yet in wagons. The mud instantly sticks to everything and when it dries it is like concrete!

The next stop was in Eastend to see the T-Rex exhibit. I was waiting to buy a ticket and over heard two guys saying they were on their way to Manyberries. So me, being the big mouth that I am, asked them what they were driving. They said a Toyota Prius. I suggested before they decided to take the Red Coat Trail across they might want to have a look at my truck when they went out to the parking lot.

We took the road south to Val Marie which is were the main information centre for Grasslands is located. After getting some information we headed to our campground for that night. It is called The Crossing Resort (http://www.crossingresort.com/) and I highly reccomend it to anyone who wants to visit the Grasslands. They have a great facility and are located right on the edge of the park. There are lots of trails to explore right from the campsite.

Our Camp site, red building is a cooking and eating area.

I smells something!

A view of the Campsite

To be continued in the next post.

Barb's Place,Amanda and Manyberries

2011-09-22T16:42:00.000-07:00

Our first overnight stop was at Barb's place in Calgary. And for those of you who are worried that you are going to get a day by day discription of the road trip, relax, I wouldn't torture anyone that way. Well maybe a few people.
Davie was a real gentleman at Barb's place, he didn't even bark at her, well at least not until the next morning when she showed up in her house coat. Much better than his predecessor Maggie, who was known to jump on the bed in the middle of the night and stand over her and howl if the bedroom door wasn't closed.
He was very impressed with Barb's cooking as was I. She is an awesome cook. Thanks Barb for letting us stay.

Are you sure none of that is for me??

The next day after an emergency stop at Mountain Equipment Coop because although I remembered all Davie's stuff I forgot my jacket we headed to Fort MacLeod to start at the beginning of the Red Coat Trail. Our objective was to follow this route through Alberta and Saskatchewan before heading north the the farm.

We next headed to Lethbridge to meet up with Amanda to return the crate Davie came in and a few other things. We met in a beautiful park that had a lot of trees. I am sure Davie checked every one for squirrels. It was so good to meet Amanda and be able to show her a very happy Davie. I really don't know how people can handle the emotional ups and downs of rescue. All I can say is a HUGE thank you to Amanda for finding me this awesome boy.

After Lethbridge it was down the Red Coat Trial to meet up with my brother in Manyberries. It is a very interesting and beautiful country down there. We arrived just after a day of pouring rain but in time for some beautiful skies.

This was our resting place for the night. Many thanks to Vicki and crew for a entertaining time and a roof over our heads. FYI all the streets in Manyberries are named after berries.

The Southern Ranchmans Inn - Manyberries, Alberta

The road trip down the Red Coat Trail will be continued.

We're Baaaaaack

2011-09-22T14:47:00.001-07:00

We had planned on blogging while we were on the road trip but it just never happened. Davie is an incredible dog to travel with. He is is well behaved, polite in hotels and other peoples homes and quite happy to lay and watch the world go by.

We have way too many pictures of our trip so I think we will break it down into different topics. For now here is an example of were we have been.

Ready to go - are you sure you remembered all my gear?

Mount Robson - something is behind me!

Alberta-Saskatchewan Border

Camping in Grasslands National Park - hurry up we need to snoop.

I know he is down this hole, if I just make it bigger!

Room to run and run and run!

Stay tuned we will start with the visit to Barb's.

Cani-cross Fun

2011-08-22T08:58:00.000-07:00

Davie and I went to a Cani-cross Meet and Fun run yesterday. We went with Deva and her person. It was a blast. I think more people should look at trying this. It is a great way to get exercise for you and your dog and it leaves your hands free which is great if you want to use hiking poles. It would be awesome for dogs who you don't want off leash, or on trials where they are not allowed off leash. Here are some pictures, and thank you Erin for letting me "borrow" some of yours.

Everyone harnessed up and ready to go.

I even take horrible pictures when I don't know they are being taken!

And as this event was at a lake Davie got to go play in the water after our walk. And need I say clean the mud off from the puddle rests!

It was a great day and big thanks to the organizers in Quesnel. Hopefully this type of event will catch on up in this part of the country.

We had two tired dogs on the drive home. They are wonderful dogs to travel with even when they aren't tired.

So this week Davie and I will be getting ready for our road trip. We are leaving next week for a drive back to my parent's place in south eastern Saskatchewan with a few stops along the way. It should be fun. it will be nice to be able to take time to stop and see things I've always had to rush by before.

Squirrels

2011-08-17T13:11:00.000-07:00

The squirrels have been very busy chucking cones out of the trees. It seems awfully early for them to be doing that, could it be they know something we don't? They are keeping Davie very busy, almost got him on the head yesterday. They are a wonderful training tool!!

Old Man Fir

There has to be a way up there!

Notice: a clean ruff!

Are you sure there isn't an elevator?

Some of Davie's Hound Friends

2011-08-14T09:46:00.000-07:00

Davie has met some pretty hounds. They can't figure out why his ears stand up, they keep smelling them.

This is Bella the Basset, she and Davie keep watch while we weed the rose gardens. Oh yes and supreme purse guards.

This is Penny, the Redbone Coonhound that is learning how to trail/track.

Sorry about the picture quality, I need to take a real camera instead of iPhone!

The 11th is a happy day and a sad day

2011-08-11T15:00:00.000-07:00

Happy because it is exactly 6 months today that I met Davie for the first time and it is my son's birthday. Sad because it is 8 months today that we lost Maggie May, my beautiful Bluetick Hound. Davie has come a long way since the picture below and he has helped fill the huge hole in my heart.

My first view of Davie

Maggie May

Sorry no picture of my son, I value my life too much to post one of him because he would get even with me!!!

Davie, me and the sheep.

2011-08-01T10:01:00.000-07:00

So we went to our second herding clinic this weekend. This video is from day two. Day three was even better, Davie had gained so much confidence and I wasn't quite as scattered (good luck). He was up to the challenge of 20 sheep and took no guff from any of them.

http://youtu.be/kYt0hQyR9zs

The herding is doing soooo much for his confidence. I just need to figure out a way to train the commands with out sheep! And no I can't keep ducks or geese either, although it is a water fowl type of year up here! Any suggestions from anyone reading this would be greatly appreciated.

The Perfect Puddle

2011-07-26T12:16:00.000-07:00

Davie found the "Pièce de résistance" of puddles today. Lots of water, enough mud and the perfect depth! What more could a guy ask for???

We do actually do some training.

2011-07-25T14:31:00.000-07:00

Since most of the pictures I post in this blog are of us running around or in puddles I thought I had better get some of us having fun doing classes. So this morning a very kind person took some pictures of us. Davie has been taking classes in obedience and agility building blocks since about March. This morning was an obedience/rally class. Davie is so much more relaxed in class.

Heeling Practice

The great thing about Davie is he is both food and toy motivated. And if he starts to get stressed you only have to have a play and he is back in "lets go mode".

He does like to tug!

When I were lucky enough to be able to spend a day and a half at Crufts three years ago I first heard of Cani-Course races. It is an awesome way to either hike or run with your dog but still have them on leash and your hands free. It is especially good for hiking hills as you can still use hiking poles and get a little help up the hills. Going down involves a lot of "easy" training. It develops great thigh muscles! Cani-Cross uses a padded waist belt, a special line that has a section of bungee like cord which is connected to a harness with good chest padding. We have been using a sled harness. The equipment very similar to that used for skijoring. I have had Davie in this since about May. There is a Cani-Cross Meet and Fun Run in Quesnel in August. So Davie and I and one of his husky buddies and her person are going to go try it. This is the first one I have heard of up in this region.

Davie in training for Cani-Cross

Yes we have been in a mud puddle.

It has definitely been a prime year for "Puddle Man".

So Quiet!

2011-07-18T16:44:00.000-07:00

Well Catja and Benji have gone home and Davie misses them, even though he gets to walk with them every day. Although I do think he enjoys the fact that no one is borrowing his bed. But we have discovered he likes the bed I had upstairs for Benji. He is a little large for it but doesn't seem to care. His head won't fit but the carpet works as a chin rest.

Huh, what, I do so fit!

Sorry eyes won't stay open.

Davie likes spending time on the deck surveying his domain. It is a good spot to keep an eye on those pesky squirrels

I'm listening to you!

And sometimes it is just a nice place to relax.

Crazy Dogs

2011-07-12T09:23:00.000-07:00

It has been a blast having Catja and Benji for the past 12 days. Davie will be sad to see them go home on Saturday. We have established a daily routine which is a short walk down the street every morning to see what has happened in the neighbourhood over night, followed by breakfast. Apparently something really interesting was around last night because there was A LOT of sniffing and checking out places this morning. Way more than normal. Time to set up the critter cam.

We went for a walk with Molly the mini Labradoodle and her person yesterday. It was an awesome walk through some beautiful places that I had no idea existed. We are really lucky in PG to have so many great places to walk. We were going to go the Moore's Meadow, AKA the great dandelion place, but Saturday we saw a huge black bear down at the far end of the meadow and decided to leave him in peace. There is so much lush vegetation around there that the bears are in feast land.

After breakfast Davie and Catja play like a pair of nut cases. Benji watches from either his bed or the couch. They are so funny to watch and also so interesting. It is amazing the amount of Dog language you can observe. I got a short video this morning, sorry it is so poor but I grabbed the closest video device and it was the phone.

This is the closest they have come to knocking something over. The play started again about a minute later and the air cleaner survived it's knock. They also have an up and down the stairs game that I haven't managed to catch on video. I even sat in the corner and pretended to read but when the camera came out they were more interested in me. One is at the top the other at the bottom. They take turns posturing then run by each other and change positions with each other. It is a hoot.

What to do with restless ones on a rainy day???

2011-07-08T14:49:00.000-07:00

You go to the centre and do some training then you play!! It is July 8th, 7 degrees and pouring rain. There were three dogs looking for trouble, well really only two, Benji is too dignified and mature to be doing some thing like that. So off we went. We did some obedience work. move backs, wobble boards, mat work and free shaping. then it was time for their free for all.

Not to be left out Benji beat up the coatimundi!! Who says an 11 year old guy can't play!

So now Davie is in his favorite place under the desk, Benji is in his bed and Catja is sleeping in the middle of the king sized bed. I think it may be time to go watch the Tour de France on the PVR and or read! I may have to light the stove to stay warm! But that's okay we like inside days when the lawn was mowed the day before!

The Three Howlers

2011-07-03T16:07:00.000-07:00

Davie is sad and happy. He is sad because the guy with the weird smelling suitcase has gone back to Tokyo just when he was beginning to really like him. Especially the miniwheats he eats for breakfast. How well did he like him, good enough to sit and hit him with a paw if he wasn't sharing!! And not to bark at him when he came in or out of a door. After about 20 practices of in and out various doors. And he taught Davie to sing and then Davie formed a trio with his house guests for the next two weeks.

So Davie is happy because Catja and Benji have come to stay while their human is in Maui. It is pretty rough around here for a dog, no comfy place to sleep. More like no place for humans to sit!

Catja

Benji

We had lots of fun while that guy was here. We went walking up our favorite trails and got to try some new ones.

Puddleman, lots to chose from!

I was nice walking, cool and no mosquitoes, but we were lucky because look what was in a puddle on the way down! Mosquitoe larvae getting ready to hatch, wouldn't have wanted to be around that evening!

And Davie and Shiloh took that guy for a cart ride. Davie is planning on auditioning for the sled dog team for this winter. He thinks a Border Collie would be a great addition to a team of four Huskys!

You remember Davie's friend Stryker, he is a nosy one!

So Davie gets to play with his buddies for the next two weeks. Today they were helping to pull weeds. Benji supervised, Catja was looking for bugs to roll in and of course Davie was making sure the Jolly Ball was in use!! I did manage to collect them for a photo opportunity.

It's a bone kind of day.

2011-06-24T13:13:00.000-07:00

After a day of sun and 26 degrees it has been raining off and on and about 14 degrees. But that's alright because we needed the rain and some inside time. Davie figured because it was a rainy day it should be bone day followed by a nap.

I loves marrow bones!

He had an exciting time over the last week. This tall guy who makes wierd noises arrived from a very far away place. His clothes smelled very different, because they came all the way from Tokyo. He seems to be an alright guy and he is teaching me to sing.

We had an exciting weekend because Davie got to do some sheep herding. He knew what he was doing I definitely did NOT. But we both had fun and that was the name of the game to have fun. This is a small clip of us, Davie the expert, me the klutz!

We also built a pond for Benji and Catja this week, well not really for them more for their person. It was fun according to the dogs, Davie and Catja chased balls and Benji supervised the construction. Oh and did I mention the first one to ALMOST try it out was Mr. Puddle Man even though he had his own pool on site!

Yep right here, no bones clear to dig!!

Come on guy throw the ball never mind the rocks!!

Where's the fish? Are you sure you did it the way I told you?

Can I, can I, please pleassssssssssssssssssse!

Of horses and huskies

2011-06-13T10:55:00.000-07:00

It was a week of dogs and horses. We went out to horse and husky sit for two days last week. Davie spent two days zooming with huskies and carefully watching horses when they came for a drink. He and the youngest horse, Stryker, AKA Bad Boy, spent about an hour watching each other. Davie would move down his side of the fence and Stryker would follow then vice versa. It would have been very interesting to hear what they were thinking! My guess is as follows:
Davie - I would love to get in there and herd you somewhere.
Stryker - no way dog boy I would kick your butt!
Davie - I don't think so I can out run you with one leg up in the air!
Stryker - That's what you think dog boy, I am fast!!
Davie - No way
Stryker - Am too!!
And on the conversation went until Stryker got hungry and left to go find something to chew on. Sorry I never got a picture of this conversation.

Davie was one tired boy on Friday, which was good because he got to stay home while I went and worked with the Bloodhounds. He spent most of the day sleeping.

Although there were no puddles at the husky's house there was a pool which apparently was rather popular! Thank goodness the horses' watering trough was on the other side of the fence or I am sure he would have been in it too!

Apparently toys like pools too!!

This is Ivan and Lexi. Lexi has dropped most of her coat, poor Ivan looks like a half hairy monster!! And they like to bath their toys too!!

Diva watching the youngsters

Shiloh keeping an eye on things.

The crew.

Grampa Pablo

The many tales of Davie

2011-06-06T11:47:00.000-07:00

So we have a variety of tales from the past week. Davie discovered the last remaining MUD puddle in the gravel pit walk and throughly enjoyed himself. He won't need any mineral supplements for a few days!!

What do you mean dirty, people pay money to be covered in mud like this

And this is how he likes to cool off after a long walk in the bush. He has decided who has the best lawns to rolly polly on the walk home.

Then there is the more water please pose. No mud puddles on this walk and he can't fit in the water dish, although he has been known to try.

More water please!

And finally this was the week Davie got to channel his inner husky as one of my friends said. And I must say he did quite well. His buddy Shiloh was very patient showing him the "ropes". He showed Davie how much fun it is to pull these silly humans on a cart! Just wait until the snow flys and we can add more huskys!!

Long Tongue buddies.

And finally Davies' favorite place to rest while I vacuum. He has a rough life.

Walk in a Field of Dandelions

2011-06-02T11:47:00.000-07:00

I have a new appreciation for Dandelions, they are actually very pretty in the right setting. I also now know why this is such a great place to live. There are so many places to walk and hike literally out your back door. This morning we decided to go to Moore's Meadow because I have not been there in over 30 years. Moore's Meadow is a large glacial kettle left over from the last ice age. There is a beautifull meadow in the middle of a mixed forest. The meadow is a designated off leash area. The YouTube video shows you Davie on the path down the middle. Sorry I had to shot with my phone. Some day I will learn never to go anywhere without a camera!!

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=GDGbhn__sBo&feature=player_embedded

Guess who cam home with yellow legs and ruff after racing through the dandelions and I might add losing his brand new purple wubba in all the tall grass. Next time it's the flying squirrel it will be easier to keep track of!! I think his tongue may have been yellow too!!

Davie and Gardening

2011-05-30T11:14:00.000-07:00

Davie is sad there are no more muddy puddles to lie in, however dandelions are not such a bad resting spot. If we are averaging 5 kilometer walks a day Davie and Catja are probably at about 10! We are now walking in the morning when it is cool and it gives us the rest of the day to play in the garden.

Sir David of Dandelion

Davie isn't too sure about this gardening thing, all he knows is if he watches for a while and stays out of these things called gardens he gets to chase the Jolly Ball.

Never mind the camera just throw the ball!!

And when he gets too hot there are nice shady places with cool grass and even a place under a HUGE fir that he is allowed to dig up fresh cool dirt to lie in!! What more can a guy ask for. Although posing beside some of the strange creatures that hang out in the garden is a bit much, but he is a very understanding guy.

Some of Davie's garden pictures. And yes he has been "IN" the pond, fountain and all.

Cool grass behind the garden shed

And yes Davie is still on a long line, he isn't tied but it helps him decide to stay in the yard rather than hunting in the bush for noisy squirrels when I call.

Rainy Morning

2011-05-23T08:22:00.000-07:00

Davie is sound asleep under the computer desk he had a very busy day yesterday. We went for a morning walk and everyone had a good run and ate some fresh green grass, well everyone but Davie he was holding the Wubba so no Wubba thief could take it. Then we had a couple of muddy belly baths.

Davie also got his regular supply of minerals as you can see on the long dirty tongue!

Next we went out to visit some Border Collies and go for another walk by the river. Davie was religated to a long line because the river is very high and fast and he is not used to this type of water. And given his love of water we didn't want to lose him. He had a blast running into the river. Thanks to his new buddies Tip and Finn for showing him this great place.

Davie in the river

And look what we found along the path. These are very tiny wild orchids called Fairy Slipper Orchids or Calypso bulbosa for you latin lovers. You can see how small they are by their size compared to the blade of grass. So delicate and beautiful.

The day wouldn't be complete without visiting Auntie Franny so off we went to see the huskies and plant some flowers. Pablo was a great help.

While Kandy supervised.

Who knew He liked water???

2011-05-18T17:11:00.000-07:00

Rainy Day

2011-05-10T10:10:00.000-07:00

Since it is pouring rain and we can't continue yard work it is time for an update. Well week one of retirement is complete and I love it. Not sure Davie does, I seem to be wearing him out. We have been going to the training centre to do some work almost every weekday morning. He really enjoys going down there to play and train. We are so lucky to belong to an agility club that has this indoor facility available to work in. Training at home is okay but the extra space there and equipment are wonderful. Then we have been doing spring clean up and of course our daily walks.
We went horse hauling last Wednesday and Davie got to play with some red and white border collies. But his biggest fascination was the cat. The cat that followed us everywhere! Then when I sat down to watch a riding lesson she preceeded to climb up my back and then cuddle up and go to sleep in my lap.

Poor Davie didn't know what to do. He finally decided sniffing the cat was a safe idea. The cat continued to purr and looked at him as much as to say, "Sorry you don't fit I do so buzz off."

We have had some additional helpers in the garden. They seem to think crocus are a spring delicacy. Sorry about the wrong date forgot to reset on the critter cam.

That's it for now

Davie practicing for scooter pulling

2011-04-30T11:58:00.000-07:00

Since Davie has decided that all trees have a squirrel hiding in them we have started to do harness practice when walking on bush trials. Recall off squirrels needs some work!
This is only his second day and he isn't doing to bad!!

http://youtu.be/K1qggTc6Z6A

The Last Two Weeks

2011-04-16T17:41:00.000-07:00

Well spring may actually be here. And the nice white snow that has been keeping the handsome Davie's ruff so white is slowly melting into wonderful water/mud that is turning him into this throughly wet, dirty, very happy guy. He loves puddles. It is "whoopee" lets see how many we can run through. So next project is a video of this mud monster. I am thinking that when it comes to swimming this summer he will be a fast learner. And he is dropping enough coat to provide the birds with some very soft nest lining

Davie and Catja have a new game called "Let's see how fast we can run holding a rope at either end." It is a joy to watch them

This is a clean puddle.

Davie also discovered that squirrels go up trees then sit and chatter at you. Way different than gophers that go down holes. He was insisting he was going to sit under the tree and wait until we convinced him it was more fun to run up the trail. Besides once he learns he has his own set of squirrels at home he can spend all the time he wants looking up trees.

We have also been working at shaping with the clicker. It took him under 3 minutes to learn how to pray on a chair. Second time we tried it it had it in three clicks. We are now working on a perfect prayer. And we have pushing a large ball with your nose close. We just have to get out of the lying position when we push the ball.
Somewhere I have a telescoping target ball I bought at Crufts 4 years ago, but do you think I can find it!! Found everything else but. The hunt is on.

And we only have 7 more sleeps left until Davie has to put up with me full time!! And he and Dan are now walking to the mail boxes and down the road. Riding in the truck seems to be a good thing. He will take treats from Dan's hand. The forced close proximatety seems to be good. Dan deserves a big metal for patience.

The little sweetie below is Davie's wire haired Dachshund buddy who came to spend yesterday afternoon. Davie likes her and she thinks he is OK for a Border Collie, she is deer watching.

This is the deer

Bad Blogger

2011-03-26T13:48:00.000-07:00

It has been two weeks since the last update. Time is going too quickly, winter has left, well according to the calender, and spring is here. Although from this picture you would never guess!! Hungry moose from the kitchen window.

Davie's own private frozen moose turd provider!

It has been six weeks today since Davie came home. That is such a short time but it feels like he has been here forever. He has really settled into the routine around here. The only remaining issue is his lack of trust with the guy in this house. It is SLOWLY getting better. Especially now that that person has realized this is a long term project and that if he is patient it will happen sooner. I must admit the two of them have had me in tears which doesn't help either of them. It has also forced me to do more research on fearful dogs and to realize he is on the far left of the spectrum if you call the far right the worst.

He loves out daily runs on the bush with his two buddies. We are lucky to have a place where the snow has been well packed so we can still do a good walk without the dogs or us breaking though the snow.

Davie has also started classes and is a pro at "no mugging". He is comfortable in class and it is good that there are two guys in class so he isn't just surrounded by females of both the two legged and four legged variety.

Shiloh, Ivan and Lexi

We went and watched the huskies sledding for two Sundays, Davie didn't get to try because the last day it was too hard packed for a beginner. He has however got his own harness now thanks to his Auntie Franny so we will be trying that with a waist belt over the summer so he gets used to it. If we get really brave we may even try him on the dog scooter!!
Davie is an awesome dog, he loves to play with toys, is food motivated, and likes other dogs, so I could not ask for much more. He is very well behaved, but also has a mischievous streak, he loves to steal shoes and clothes. We will work though his fear of people. After all Maggie and Abby couldn't leave me with the perfect dog or what would I have to challenge me. Abby was my perfect dog, Maggie was my teacher..
For now Davie's job is to help fill the hole in my heart that they left behind. He is doing a very good job. He looked at me today, when a little brown Abby turd appeared from under the snow and I almost started to cry, as much as if to say. "It's okay I am here now and we are going to learn so much together."

It has been a Month!

2011-03-12T18:00:00.000-08:00

Only thing better than this would have been Heli sking!

Since the horrible drive from Jasper to home! Hard to believe. So what have we done in the last week. Well winter was still here last Sunday but it was -8 and a beautiful sunny day. We broke a new snow shoe path and played out a Border Collie!! Davie really likes the snow.

Then on Monday we had a visit from a moose that left Davie his own pile of fresh frozen turds. Apparently you don't roll in them any more, they are actually yummy!
And he got to meet Kim who started all this! Thanks Kim!

Sleepy Moose

Best of all on Wednesday the moose was standing in the back yard and Davie saw him up close from the back window. Apparently BCs don't bother this moose he bedded down in the back and had a 4 hour rest then moved to the front and trimmed the apple trees. And actually did quite a good job. I won't have much to do in the spring.

Saturday was a busy day. Davie got to come to work with me and rest in the truck. It was a short work visit so he was quite happy to have a nap. Then the fun began we went down to the Agriplex to watch the Top Dog Agility Trial. We sat up in the stands and people came to meet him. He was a perfect gentleman and got to meet a terrific bunch of dog people and eat a WHOLE bunch of treats. Thanks to everyone who was sooo welcoming. It is wonderful to be able to have help from such a great bunch of people. He was comfortable enough that we made a short swing through the crating area to go find some of those nice people. He loved watching the dogs run!!
After that if was time for Davie to get to go into the real bush. We went for a two hour walk/snowshoe up one of our favorite trails. There he got to see the really big trees. He is now sound asleep on the ceramic floor in the bathroom. He opens an eye once in a while to make sure I am still here.

A prairie boy in the trees

Davie and Catja

Oh yes and spring arrived today. It was +9!! Tomorrow we are going to go sledding with the huskies and probablt drop in on the Top Dog Agility trial again. Then this week we start classes with Davie. And continue working on trusting the man person in the house. We are still scared of him and he is being very patient. We are close.

Wow a week has gone by!!

2011-03-05T16:27:00.000-08:00

It has been a busy week and we have gone from -32 with wind chill to a beautiful -5 today with some sun. And a pile more snow which Davie happens to love. We had a near encounter with a deer this morning. The poor thing was in the middle of the yard finding something to eat. Luckily Davie was more interested in his Jolly Ball so ignored the poor thing when it took off out the driveway. Snow on the level in the yard is probably at least a meter and a half deep. Here are some more snow pictures!!

Help I'm sinking!!

Catja

Davie has settled in nicely but is still scared of the man person, we are making slow progress. It will take a while. We start doggy classes on Monday night.

Davie Puppy Pictures

2011-02-27T11:46:00.000-08:00

This is what he looked like as a puppy. Thank you Jenny for the pictures. And I hear he was a bit of a trouble maker!

Holly Cow can it Snow here!!!

2011-02-27T11:40:00.000-08:00

Friday it was back into the bush for a snow shoe. The open areas where pretty blown in and hard for the dogs so we stayed on the bush trails. No moose but lots of rabbit tracks.
Saturday we went street walking so Benji could come with us. The streets were clear of loose snow so Mr. Short Legs (Benji) had no problems. It was also good for Davie as he got to see more people and places. Next we went to have tea with a very pretty wavy blond mini labradoodle named Molly. Davie and Molly basically ignored each other which was OK. Davie got to meet three new humans and was pretty good. They were good at just ignoring him and letting him set his own pace. He definitely is more wary of men than women. He also got to see some cats which seemed to amuse him!! Especially when one chased him down the hall.

It has snowed over 20 cm in the last 24 hours but Davie doesn't seem to mind. How ever it did postpone our visit to see some fellow BCs until next week.

Davie's Street

Where is that ball??

Finally found it!

Now to swim my way out.

Days 10, 11 and 12

2011-02-24T19:01:00.000-08:00

Davie has got into my work routine very nicely. He doesn't really care for the parrot alarm clock but at least he has now stopped trying to grab it. One thing for sure I wake up fast! Not to sure he is crazy about getting up at 5 and walking down the road in the dark but the smells are intriguing especially if the deer have been down the road. But yesterday morning he looked at me as much as to say" Are you nuts lady it's too cold out here lets go home." So we did. He claims he left Alberta to get away from the wind but it has been here the last two days.


Davie's favorite place.

No snow shoeing yesterday or today as the wind chill is -30 in the open and our moose buddies are hanging out on the bush trails. So yesterday we hung around home and watched hockey with the man person.

Got you Prairie Boy

Today we went over to Catja's and ran in the back yard. The little whiskery face guy is Catja's pal Benji.

Benji

So tomorrow is Friday, two weeks since I met Davie in Edmonton. He has come a long way in many respects.

Day 9 - A Big Day

2011-02-21T18:43:00.000-08:00

So it was back to work for me today. Davie got to spend quality time with his man person. I got a very nice phone call at about 8 to say that Davie had been looking for me but had settled down nicely and was checking to see where this man person was. I came home at 1130 to let him out for a bog stop and a play. He was happy to see me but settled down when I told him it was back to work. He is the best mannered guy I have ever seen, he just lays about or wanders about checking things out. Such a sweetie.

Careful Prairie Boy I was here first!!

We went for a snow shoe after work and Davie got to have a good run off leash in the open area. We stayed clear of moose country today. I think Davie and Catja like the snow almost as much as me. Have a look.

We love winter!!

Whoopee

Can't catch me Prairie Boy

Day 7 and 8 in Davie's words

2011-02-20T20:39:00.000-08:00

I really like morning walks EXCEPT when it is -32!! So we skipped Saturday. But we did get to go to the Neat Pet Store again. And this time I met a really nice girl. She fed me treats and let me play with her dog. And I bought a special Husky key chain for my Auntie Franny! And I must admit I convinced my person to buy me a few things. I wasn't pushy just poked my nose in a few things. I like this town there are realy neat places, BUT I could do with out the holes in the roads. I must say that Alberta roads are WAY better! Lucky I have good teeth or they might have fallen put by now!
We went to visit some different horses. It was fun, cold but sunny and I got to give Aunty Franny her present. She is sooo nice.
Then I went and ran tinnels with Catja in her back yard.

Only now I have learned how to run on top and jump the tunnels too! Then I went home and had a bunch of Kongs to clean out. I LOVE Kongs!

On Sunday we went to visit the Huskies and I got to walk down the road with Shiloh. I like him he is very confident and quiet and tells me things are fine and that if I need any help he will be there to help me. There are lots of excellent treats in their house. I love my Aunty Franny!

My person stopped at Costco to do some shopping so I had a nap. I like this truck riding,except for the pot holes!
We went for a walk in the bush and I got to run off leash with Catja in a big open area. It was fun but there is soooo much snow! Then we went back down the path by the river. AND I saw my first moose, actually two moose. They are huge! My person told me to be quiet because they were eating and I shouldn't scare them. We back tracked and went out a different way so as not to bother them. They are very big!! But I know they are hungry and it looked like a very safe place for them to live.

Running!!!

I am now lying on my bed cleaning out a Kong. Life is good and the man person doesn't seem to be soo bad. I think I like him more and more. He sure has good treats.

So I have been here a week. I am beginning to think this is where I really belong! But all the trees and snow are really strange. I'll send pictures of my street tomorrow!

That's all from me Davie the Dog, or as my person calls me sometimes, Davie the Duck! Strange I don't think I quack

Last two Days

2011-02-19T11:43:00.000-08:00

Davie spent day 4 at home enjoying the peace and quiet. We thought he needed a break from new things and to just hang out. We did our normal walk down the street to check out what was happening in the neighborhood. Then we went over to Catja's for a run in the tunnels. This is their favorite game. Davie running the tunnels and Catja leaping from bank to bank over top of him. He settles down wonderfully in the house after their play.

On Friday ( Day 5)we spent time in the morning lying around with Danny. Davie has gone from having to be bribed to get up on the bed to jumping up on his own and lying between Danny and I. He relaxes and has a good snooze.

In the afternoon he went and stayed with Catja while I got my hair done. I am sure Davie is now wondering why I no longer look like either a skunk or a strange Border Collier since the white strip is gone. He was the perfect gentleman at CP's place. Two friends of CPs dropped in for coffee and he was a perfect gentleman. When I got there everyone was sitting around the table and he was quite content to lay on the floor and listen to the cackling, plus go and visit everyone and get a treat. He was even into letting everyone tickle him by placing his head on their lap. I am sooo proud of him.

Yummy bully sticks

He is becoming more accepting of Danny. He has been hand fed about half his supper then given the rest in his bowl. So small steps but they are all forward.

Day 5 and 6 will update tomorrow we have been busy!

2011-02-18T20:04:00.000-08:00

Davie - Day 4 - In Davie's words

2011-02-17T10:07:00.000-08:00

It was out and about again this morning in the truck as my person had to do some of this thing called "shopping". Not that she likes to shop but apparently I needed an ID tag and a license for the city I now live in. Does that make me like a truck?

We also went to this other neat place. It was a pet store and a really nice lady made me feel welcome and she even let me play with one of her dogs! I managed to look at enough toys to convince my person to buy me a Cuz toy and an outside toy to play with.

Look at those trees!!

Later in the afternoon we went for another walk in the bush with Catja and CP (Catja's Person). I really like this walking. We were out for about 90 minutes and there are soooo many different smells. This picture shows you some of the big trees. Then Catja stayed for a visit. She really loves Danny but I am not to sure about him, sometimes I am OK but sometimes I bark at him. I think I just need more time, I really want to like him because he has good treats and I know he needs me to love him. So I am trying really hard.

Day 3 - Part 2

2011-02-16T16:26:00.000-08:00

Well after that little screw up it was time to head to Catja's house for a play in the snow tunnels and coffee. We do love these snow tunnels!! Then we went in for coffee and got to meet Mike. He is a really nice guy and after Catja and Benji showed me how much they liked him I didn't bark and I took little treats from him.

That was after Catja sat on me! Then we went home and I had a rest. It has been an exciting three days!!

Davie Day 3 - part 1

2011-02-16T14:22:00.000-08:00

So day 3 begins with our morning road walk followed by breakfast. Then whoopee another walk in the bush with Catja and CP. No snow shoes this time and a different trial. And Davie got to see his first squirrel. I think he will have fun with these come spring as there are two different families in the yard. Also his first frozen moose turds which at least he seems to want to roll in rather than eat.

After the walk it was time to beat up a few toys.Then it was time to see how Davie would do in his kennel when his person left. The answer was not too good. A lot of crying and barking. So mistake by person, should have only done it for a short time then returned not as long. House man saved him and let him out of kennel. So we will try again and be smarter about it!!

new toy, old toy, which to pick!!

Davie Day 2

2011-02-16T14:07:00.000-08:00

This day begins as most with a walk down the street first thing in the morning to see what has happened over night, You never know what may have been out and about. Lots of things to sniff.

After breakfast it is time for another truck ride. This time we are going to the Horse Arena to watch Catja's person (from now on known as CP) ride her horse. Davie thinks this place isn't bad, a couple of people that looked a little suspicious but look the Arena Cat!!! Davie was fascinated by him and of course as only cats can he seemed to know Davie has a fascination with cats. We spent more time watching the cat than the horses in the arena. After visiting CP we where off to the Dog Gone Bakery to by some dog food and treats. As luck would have it there was no one in the DG Bakery except a really nice lady who loves herding dogs. She understood immediately that Davie was a little scared and quickly won his confidence with quiet words and goodies.

Next it was off to see if we could meet some Dog People at a local training centre. And guess what, there were some really nice people there and Davie got to play with a very pretty Sheltie girl. He liked that place. We were also told that there was an opening in a set of beginner classes and that we needed to go!! So I guess we start soon!!

I used to herd these now I sleeps on one!!

After that eventful day it was time for a rest:

After a well deserved rest we went over to Catja's to play in her snow tunnels. Davie was so funny, Catja could run on top of the snow so he leaped up to chase her and promptly sunk. He looked at me as much as to say WTF!! So Davie did the tunnels and Catja the banks.


Tunnel Man

Then it was time for a est so we went home. Davie says the treat man is there again, still not sure about him but I am getting better.

Davie Day 1

2011-02-16T13:49:00.000-08:00

Davie was up about 7 and got his first look at big tree and big snow country beginning with a walk down the street to check out the neighborhood. He couldn't believe how much snow there was and how many trees there were.

After breakfast it was time to go for a snow shoe in the bush. This begins with a walk down the street with Catja and her person, then snow shoes have to be put on. Davie seemed to think these things were a little strange but no big deal.

Then we where off down the trail.

It was an interesting place, first of all there was more snow than Davie was used too and then there were all those trees!! Catja explained to him how this walking thing worked. And as luck would have it, it didn't take long to discover his first moose tracks. They are strange things very deep and you can get stuck in them!

Where did my legs go???

So after a successful snow shoe we went home for a little R&R.


Eyes too heavyyyyyyyyyy

After a rest Davie got to meet Ivan and his Aunty Franny. Ivan is one of four Siberian Huskies that Davie will get to run and play with. His Auntie Franny brought him Miss Abby Beef Stew Bears from The Dog Gone Bakery. Cindy very kindly named the beef stew bears after Miss Abby (who went over the Rainbow bridge on Feb 4, 2011).

Miss Abby

Miss Abby seemed to have had a lot to do with Davie coming to his forever home. We went for a walk down the street and within minutes Davie had gone from barking at his Auntie Franny to thinking she was the best Aunt he had found that day. At the end of the road we met the WEBDCDL also known as the weiner dog's mom. She had Chorizo thw wire hair with her and Oskar on her back. Davie did not bat an eye at the two headed person. He loved Chorizo and also met Sammi, who spends a lot of time with WEBDCDL. Davie was impressed with his neighborhood!!

Davie is still unsure of the food man in the house. Davie says, "He seems nice but I am a little cautious, he sure has good treats though."

Operation Davie

2011-02-16T13:20:00.000-08:00

Operation Davie began on Thursday, February 10th when the transportation from the east began it's journey to pick up Davie in Lethbridge, Alberta.

Catja

The transportation from the west left, Friday, February 11th. This included Catja the houndling whose mission was to let Davie know hw was welcome and going to an awesome forever home.The meeting place was the Travel Lodge in Stony Plain.

Davie did not want to leave the safety of his crate but with a little help from Catja he agreed that it was time to meet his new people.

Davie

Davie and Catja would like to recomend the Travel Lodge in Stony Plain as an awesome dog friendly place. It is on a dead end street so necessary bathroom breaks are accomplished in peace and quiet.

The home journey began early the next morning. Davie and Catja are both wonderful dogs to travel with, not a peep from them, considering the drive from Jasper to Prince George was one of the worst ever experienced due to rain, sleet, slush, snow and fog.

Operation Davie complete. On my new bed.

Stay tuned for information

2011-02-14T22:53:00.000-08:00