Monday, November 18, 2013

Thankful...that somehow it all makes sense


So thankful for the humans and canines in my life.  Four of them are pictured above.  From left to right - Alli, collie aka Moose (when Grand lady is in the house), Libby and Ezra and my sweet Grand lady Alli. Confused...I can explain.

For those of you who know me or have been following my blog or fb page for some time probably noticed my double use of the name Alli. I think it's time to finally set the record straight. I know people must be very confused when I speak about Alli collie and Alli granddaughter.  It wasn't in the plans really, it just kind of happened that way.

Alli, collie came already named.  Not something that usually happens and not something I truly enjoy. I love choosing just the right name for our new canine companions as they join our family.  But Alli collie had been named from the start and she knew her name quite well...so Alli it was.

Meanwhile, my daughter has always loved the name Alli.  She had planned that if she was ever blessed to have a daughter, said daughter would be named Alli...and so it is.  We never thought we would have coinciding Alli names in the family...really who would have thought it.  But, here we are and so we adapt.

It all worked out very well actually. Sweet Alli, collie had been nicknamed Moose by one of the terriers, long before our Grand lady arrived. Yes, she was nicknamed by one of the terriers, you heard me right. Now that's another story...

My sweet husband who is quite normal, I assure you, and not one to be gushy and mushy about our animals, like...well me, occasionally talks to the animals.  Or should I say, our animals talk to him.

One day, out of the blue, he informed me quite seriously that Libby (the small brown and white terrier) had become quite frustrated with new puppy Alli and called her "Moose" as plain as day.  He heard it.  "You heard it?," I said as I put my hand to his forehead. Well...No...not exactly audibly.  Oh, thank heavens...as his forehead was cool as a cucumber.

He further explained that while Alli, collie, was being a bit overwhelming at a particular moment - Libby, with a look of utter disgust and frustration, gazed into my husband's face and so much as called Alli "a Moose"!  I said, "a Moose. Why Moose?"  He looked at me, as if to say, just follow me, please. I don't have animals speaking to me daily and I must get this out. He proceeded to explain, "isn't it obvious...you know the size difference and all, Alli can be quite intimidating to little Libby."  He has a point, you can plainly see the size difference in the picture.

Now, I have to pause right here, dear readers, unless you should get worried about our little Libby. As all good terrier owners know, no matter their small stature, terriers are perfectly able to take good care of themselves.

And so the name Moose has stuck.  Libby seems quite pleased with herself when she hears us call Alli, collie Moose.  Very pleased indeed.  

Which is now a very good thing.  Thank you Libby!  We can now use Moose or Moosie when Grand lady is in the house.  Said Moosie aka Alli collie will come when called Moose. AND by said Grandlady Alli. Are you following me?  Good...

I know now it all makes perfect sense and I can get back to what I am thankful for...

I am so thankful for my sweet family both human and canine.  Especially thankful for my dear husband, partner in all things. I am sure he had no idea he'd be hearing the animals speak to him when we met 35 years ago. I look forward to the marathon...um, er...the Thanksgiving holiday with you - I could not do it all without you!

I am thankful for laughter and good friends, like Paula who help me to see the funnier side of life.

I am so thankful for the gift of doing what I love...training people to train their dogs.

For my new training facility that is a gift that seemingly fell right out of the sky.  I know it didn't, it was in my Father's plan for me. I continue to walk forward in happy expectation to all you have in store for me in this new place!

And...I am thankful to the One who put my feet on this wonderful journey, full of ups and downs, twists and turns but also full of His promises, grace and love... He puts all things right and helps it all make sense!

Happy Thanksgiving everyone!









Wednesday, October 23, 2013

Change

Change... I thought immediately about the changes I have experienced this past summer in my training business.  From renting a room, pictured left, where I often had to rearrange the furniture to allow for room to train.  To the picture below right of my very own Classroom.

I have been using the building pictured to the left for years and it's been a true blessing.  A place I could pay per use, that was warm in the winter and had ample parking. It was also a plus that they allowed dogs.  The difficulty about this space, it wasn't "my" place. Others used the building and I had to schedule my training times well in advance so I could hold consecutive classes. I had to pack all my training tools and load them in the car and take them to this place weekly.  Often when I arrived it was set up for meetings - tables and many chairs set in various patterns.  I would arrive early for my class and start the process of tearing down all the chairs and moving the heavy tables to the sides of the room.  I did this week after week for my 6 week classes - a few times a year.  And I was happy to do so...thankful to have the space to rent indoors for the winter months.

I had been looking for my own space to train for some time.  I thought of building a place at my small farm to hold classes and found out quickly the expense was enormous.  I looked at modular buildings and sheds.  I thought of using my two car garage for a while.  It is after all finished and a large enough space to hold small classes.  But what to do with all my pony carriages, how would I cover the cement floor and how would I heat the space. Everything I thought of had quite a bit of expense attached to it and being a small business I didn't feel it a good idea to take on such a large loan.

This year another group decided to use the same building above.  They had their schedule and year well planned and filled the calendar with their various practices and events.  When I called to schedule my classes, it appeared that there was only one night free and only free for so many weeks - not 5 or 6 consecutively.  Uh, no!  I thought my training business might come to a close for the winter months.  What else could I do?  It appeared I no longer had an indoor space to use. I was devastated...  Maybe it was time to move on from something I so loved.  Just when I was comfortable with the idea that perhaps God had something else in store and I could move on...

My son invited me to go on a walk with him to reminisce.  And out of nowhere, this empty Classroom (upper right) appeared.  And the rest as they say...is history.

If you had asked me a year ago what my ideal "place" - space to train - would be I would have described my Classroom.  I always saw myself as a teacher and the humans and dogs as my students.  A Classroom setting fits this idea perfectly! It's bright and airy.  I love that lots of sun flood through my tall windows.  It's perfect for private sessions and large enough for classes as well. It's warm in the winter and will be cool in the summer and has ample parking. I can fit most of my agility equipment in the space and will be able to continue to teach basic agility - or Ogilty as I call it - a combination of working on both agility and obedience behaviors.  It's perfect and inviting!

The best part about my space is it's mine...I can set up  my equipment and decorate anyway I please.  I have all my training equipment at my finger tips. Amazing, the very moment I felt devastating loss, was the very moment my hopes and dreams became a reality.  Change is good!

Saturday, September 21, 2013

A Good Work


I am all settled into my new Classroom at Pawsitive Journey Training.  It has been a very busy week, most days starting at 8 am and not ending until 9:00/9:30 pm.  So much to do with the new Classroom; cleaning, setting up and moving everything in that I will need, plus keeping up with my already scheduled training sessions.  I felt overjoyed as I put all the things I will need into place; CD player and CD's (you have to have music!), cones, pamphlets, tunnel, carpet squares, balls, leashes, collars, harness, class handouts and the list goes on.  Usually, during the winter months I use an indoor facility that is used by many different groups.  So I would pack my big black bag full of equipment, training helps, treats, cones - you name it, everything I need to successfully run my training classes - grab my sweet collie, Alli and off we'd go.  Invariably, I would forget something and have to bring that item to the next scheduled class.  I now have everything all in one stationary place!  I also experienced the joy of decorating my space for the very first time.  I love to decorate!  I decided to add a few of my favorite things, such as my children's book collection about, you guessed it - dogs, pictured above.  

My sweet husband helped me take the final few items to The Classroom today.  We asked for God's blessing over this place and all who would enter. As we talked about all the possibilities, I felt the warmth of my tears falling down my cheek...I am so thankful, so grateful to the One who guides and directs my steps. One of my favorite verses in Philippians ran through my mind, "He who has begun A Good Work in you will perform it until the day of Christ Jesus."  I have dreamt of this day so very many times. 

Truth be told, with all the excitement of this moment, I am a bit nervous. The what ifs have tried hard to poke their unwanted heads into my thoughts to make me doubt, to tell me there are many reasons why I just can't handle all this...time, family, finances.  And...

Just then I had a call from a potential client.  She asked so many great questions and I had a wonderful time answering each and every one.  At the conclusion of our conversation, she mentioned she had sat in on my brown bag chat that I had done this past spring at our local library about "The Language of Dogs". She remarked at how much she appreciated how I spoke so passionately about what I do.  That "it seemed this wasn't so much a profession as much as it was a passion," that I, "so obviously enjoy what I do".  

What a perfect sign to chase away all those doubts... I whispered a prayer that The Classroom will be a place of welcome, hope, peace, a place to belong for humans and a good and calm place for canines where we build communication and understanding between the two species. I am savoring the moments and thankful for each one...this is A Good Work.

Monday, August 26, 2013

Lost and Found

Pictured is my grand dog, Maxwell and me.  Maxwell went on a walk about Saturday late in the day.  It would seem my daughter went out to shop while my son in law watched their sweet 19 month old daughter.  Son and granddaughter were outside playing and working in the garden and went in the house for a moment and that's when Max apparently found a way of escape from his fenced in yard.  Upon my daughters return home, she immediately walked the neighborhood calling for Max.  No sign of Maxwell, he was missing!  She made flyers and placed them around the neighborhood and as of Sunday morning there was still no sign of Max anywhere.  She felt terrible about it and felt like they were irresponsible for allowing their dog to escape their yard.

It's hard when a dog you love goes missing.  Even leaving a dog in a fenced in yard can be tricky.  Dogs can find loose fencing, boards and slip out before you know it, which was the very case for our Maxwell. My hubby, Matthew and I went down to be with our daughter and her family on Sunday for moral support.  As fate would have it, our darling grand daughter was sick and running a fever.  You know the old adage of when it rains it pours. I felt terrible for my daughter, just what she needed.  You know how emotions can run when you are 8 months pregnant, she truly didn't need this stress...lost dog, sick baby.  My husband and I looked over the neighborhood as we drove through and went out back and called for Maxwell.  I told my daughter that this was a wonderful area of the city and I was sure someone would see what a nice dog Max was and would help him out.  It was little consolation, as we both knew that they lived in the city on a very busy city street which intersected many other very busy city streets. All we could do was wait and keep watch and...hope.

We busied ourselves with our little grand lady.  So tough to see her lying on the couch, one who is so active and busy, so still and feeling so sick. As we sat and watched a movie with her, we offered sips of juice, bits of cold Popsicles, yogurt anything to help her to feel better. I found myself whispering a prayer over my precious grand daughter and then whispering a prayer for our Maxwell dog too.

As Matthew, fondly known as Pappy to our grand lady, carried her up to bed I whispered another prayer over her.  We prepared to head home, lots of hugs and encouraging words before we left trying to console heavy hearts...wishing, as all parent do, that we could make it all better...

One final drive down their street, my eyes searching all the nooks and crannies between buildings, fence rows...  And I notice two girls about to cross the very street we turn on to catch the Interstate.  I mention to Matt to watch for the girls and...their dog..."their" dog...WAIT...I can't believe my eyes.  That's MAXWELL.  We pulled the car over and met Sophia and Novia...beautiful young ladies who found Maxwell Saturday night one street over from behind my daughter's house.  They were worried for him and the busy streets and although he could not stay at their house, they found a friend for Max to bunk with for the night and were walking the neighborhood in hopes that they could locate his family!

I talked to my daughter this morning and the wayward dog is happy to be home... The story gets even better as my grand lady woke up hungry and more active with very little evidence of fever!  I am so thankful to the One who I can turn to, run to when I don't know what to do, when my heart is heavy and my best just isn't quite enough.  It reminds me of understanding the feeling of being lost.  And I am thankful my story, like Maxwell's story, doesn't end there...I also know the feeling of being found!


Wednesday, August 7, 2013

Through my son's eyes...

Standing 3 to 5 seconds, one of the elements of our dressage test  This has been a hard element for Billy to learn and he stood stock still - Good boy Billy!
I finally have a moment to write about our first ever Combined Driving Event.  We had a fantastic time and I could not be more pleased with my pony's efforts. We have both matured and grown as a team.  It would seem we have prepared for this moment our entire lifetime together. I knew my pony had it in him, it just took him and I a bit longer to get to this point than most.  I suppose that's what makes it so sweet.  We've had a special bond and connection from the day he was born on our small farm.  He's not been an easy pony to train, but I have learned so much from him and would not trade one second of our journey together. We started our preparations in February, walking the neighborhood in the snow for fitness. We drove through sleet, snow and raindrops, not having the luxury of an indoor arena.  We traveled to visit our driving instructor, Stacey Giere, for lessons.  Trailered out to woodland trails, with great friends, to drive to build our fitness on the hottest days of the summer.  We worked steadily day in and day out until our big weekend in July.  Our hard work paid off with our best dressage test ever, scores of 7's, 7.5's, 8's and a 9 for turnout.  I am still on cloud nine!  I made a driver error during our dressage test, Billy swished his tail and let me know he wasn't happy with me, but even in his confusion he chose to trust me and allow me to get us back on track.  What a good pony, he had to wonder what in the world I was doing during that one moment of lost focus, but he forgave me quickly and moved on, which is a huge step for us.  We placed 4th overall in the Combined Tests out of a group of 7 total. Who knows where we might have fallen had I not made such a costly mistake, but how could I dwell on that when my pony gave me all he had and then some.  It is so very satisfying to know the highs and lows over all these 13 years together, that we should experience this shining moment is a true thrill! 

Billy during our dressage test - going across the diagonal in a lovely extended trot

My heart was full as I returned home.  I had a lovely weekend with my pony, filled with my family and so many wonderful friends.  My husband Matthew and my son Nicholas attended the three day show with me - helping me with loading/unloading the trailer, cleaning Billy's stall, feeding, watering, helping me hitch a wiggly pony to cart, to cheering me on, keeping me well hydrated and fed, calming my nerves and telling me - "you can do it, you've got this"!
Dressage...lovely extension
And then...I viewed the pictures - they took my breath away!  My son, Nicholas agreed to take the pictures of the event for me.  My hubby has long ago given up on taking pictures of my events. It just isn't his true talent or gifting.  I have never met anyone who can get a camera chord, a finger or the bill of a hat in a otherwise lovely picture.  He has many wonderful talents and gifts but taking pictures isn't one of them.  When I pulled my camera out from amongst harness, helmet and gloves, my husband looked away immediately pretending not to see it, as my son smiled at me and said, "I'll do it"!  Wonderful, I had hope again that I might get a decent picture of Billy and I at an event.  Little did I know what a true talent my son has for taking pictures. If you know anything about horses, their frame and movement you will see Nick's very educated and knowledgeable eye.  He captured the moment brilliantly; movement, focus, energy...absolutely amazing!
Asking for impulsion coming out of the corner across the diagonal
After our dressage test, leaving the ring with a happy pony not at all tired and moving well



Onto our cones course following our dressage test


                                                                                                    Lovely bend!
My son's artistry

These pictures are such a gift to me.  A gift to see the creativity, the talent of my son the budding artist. Nicholas has been on a huge journey of his own this last year, growing from teenager into adulthood. This hasn't been an easy transition for him and I am amazed at his courage as he meets the challenges he has had to face. There seems to be a bit of a parallel of stories here.  I am thankful, more than you could ever know, to view the world through my son's eyes. It's not about the ribbons or accolades, it's about meeting the challenges of the day and coming out on the other side, knowing you did your best - with a smile on your face. 
Life is good!

Saturday, July 20, 2013

For the love of a pony




I woke up Wednesday morning to my pony Billy's leg swollen 1 1/2 times it's original size.  As you know we've been working feverishly to prepare for our first combined driving event.  My heart sank, we have 1 1/2 weeks until the big day...what did I do, what did he do...what happened?  I called the vet immediately while I began hosing Billy's leg with cold water.  The picture above is of our progress - day 3.  I was so upset initially, taking a picture of Billy's swollen leg was the last thing on my mind.  

Long story short, I had done nothing wrong.  It would appear that my pony, who has lived in this very stall all his life and who, I might add has never been lame a day in his life, got cast in his stall.  Although, I was over his stall with a fine tooth comb and did not notice the tell tale signs of a struggle, that's our best guest.  Below is a post I shared yesterday on a fb group page I am blessed to be a part of.  A group of artists, aspiring writers and extremely talented people.  I thought I would share Billy's saga on my blog as well.

Day 3 - of hosing Billy's leg. We are making progress! The swelling has come down almost completely. He still has swelling at the bulb of his heel and continues to favor this leg a bit, but seems much more comfortable. My hosing of his leg, linament and wraps overnight are doing the trick. If I had a dollar for all the times I have completed this scenario throughout my life, I'd be rich. The smell of linament in the morning brings back a flood of fond memories with beloved horses and ponies I have shared my life with over all these many years. I might add, while giving Billy a bath on Wednesday, I had 3 sets of pleading pony eyes watching the proceeding. Yesterday, as the day dawned hot and bright, once again, the memory of those pleading eyes hit me just as harshly as the rising humidity and I decided to give the other 3 ponies a complete bath...allowing them to dry while grazing...the total spa package. I have very happy ponies along with one really tired, albeit, content human! Today is a good day at Wind Dance pony farm...

Billy continues to progress, in fact, he went on a bit of a walk about last evening...um...a very strong trot escape to be exact.  This is a whole other story...what an adventure living with Billy pony!  I can say for certain, the boy is back to his ornery self.  Although, we have made the decision to skip the marathon, we hope to  make it for the combined tests next weekend!  Back to work Billy!

Tuesday, July 16, 2013

Life on our small farm...





It's shaping up to be a very hot day at Wind Dance Pony farm here in Ohio. The heat was already oppressive early in the morning. As I finished up fly spraying ponies, filling water tubs, cleaning stalls and placing the barn fan just so for the ponies, I called the dogs to follow me into the house. My next order of business for the day is to have a cup of tea while checking emails and sending out confirmations for my lessons for the day. As I was sitting at my desk, my sweet collie Alli was doing her low talk and quiet bark at the back french doors. These are the doors where Alli keeps watch over her ponies during the day. I always check when Alli talks or barks at the door. My gaze was greeted with happily grazing ponies...one, two, three, four...all present and accounted for. No apparent problem. I smiled at Alli as I returned to my desk and let her know everything was as it should be. I sat back down and no sooner started typing and Alli started her low guttural talking/bark. It was kind of cute, as she was hiding a bit behind the couch from my sight as she knew I had asked her to stop. But thankfully, she would not be deterred. I'm such a silly human, as I know when Alli talks or barks something is amiss. She is the guardian of our farm and only barks when she is alerting me to something out of place, unlike my two sweet, albeit, goofy Jack Russells. Again, I didn't see a thing but my beautiful ponies enjoying their pasture... Okay, Alli show me. I opened the door and followed her. Alli went immediately to the pasture gate and as I followed her path it was then I saw her... Sweet Libby my smallest JR (pictured brown and white) was sitting on the other side of the gate patiently waiting for me to allow her to join us indoors. Thank you, thank you Alli, collie! The heat must affected me more than I knew...how could I have forgotten about Libby. Libby could have easily went under the pasture fence and went on an adventure, she was sitting in the hot sun waiting...waiting for me. We live on a very busy road and I shutter to think what could have happened. Alli saves the day again! Good girl Alli, atta girl!

Friday, July 5, 2013

Kids and Dogs...A Perfect Combination

I love the dynamic between kids and dogs, a perfect combination...or is it?  The answer to that question these days seems to be a bit more complex.  I do truly believe in the wonderful relationship that can bloom and grow between a child and a dog.  I have experienced that wonderful friendship throughout my life, since before I can remember...I've just always had a dog by my side.  I am blessed!  I remember a time when dogs shared our lives.  I remember my Grandmother singing and talking to our dogs, she taught me how to be with dogs and respect them.  Mostly by what she modeled before me rather than what she spoke.  I woke up early and my dog woke up with me...we played all day long in the neighborhood.  Took dogs on walks, invited them in our little swimming pools, attended  neighborhood pet contests and the list goes on.  I remember the dogs at the horse farm where I worked went with us on trail rides and swam with us in the pond.  By the end of the day both dog and child were tired and slept well.  It was good and a beautiful way of life.  I do remember the odd dog getting hit on the street or road, but I also remember neighbors looking out for not only me but the dogs in the neighborhood as well.  They shewed both dog and child home when it was time and no one felt badly about it.

Now, it would seem we can't be so free.  And certainly I am not advocating turning our dogs loose on the street.  It was the 60's and 70's a different place and time...  I remember the odd dog bite and we knew what dogs in the neighborhood were friendly and which to avoid.  I was never bitten as a child, I think because I spent so much time with my dog and others, I knew instinctively how to speak dog.  Maybe?  Not sure...  But it seemed like it was a more natural way of being with our dogs than it is now.

We buy our dogs the best of everything in 2013...food, clothing and bedding...they live in lovely large homes, with big beautiful back yards. But, it seems to me we've lost something in all of the money we spend on our dogs...we've lost our connection simply in time spent with our dogs.  As a dog educator (trainer) more and more I learn of dogs biting children, of having separation anxiety, of being dog aggressive...and the list seems to be growing.  I read an article recently that stated the number one reason 'American' dogs exhibit all these different behavioral problems is because they are bored.  I think they're on to something.

I am fortunate and blessed to continue to share my life with dogs...everyday...we work together.  I am thrilled that I have opportunity to teach children how to speak dog.  I am happy that my little Grand lady is learning how to respect her canine friends...to be kind and empathetic toward all the dogs in her life.  I hope I am doing my Grandmother proud in teaching or more importantly modeling how to interact in a good and kind way with dogs.

We live in a different day and age...but I believe we can do it! We can supervise, model and teach our children how to be kind and most importantly empathetic toward their animal friends.  I believe we can think of creative ways to allow our kids and dogs to enjoy life together even in our busy, over extended schedules.  I hope so anyway...  When I watch my Grand lady (pictured above) with my small pack, I have to smile...I love the way they are learning to be around one another in a good and kind way...it takes supervision...but well worth the time invested...nurturing a lifetime of friendship!   Kids and dogs, a perfect combination? I say a hardy YES!

Monday, June 24, 2013

Monday morning meeting

As we sat down this morning for the beginning of our weekly meeting...  Libby called the meeting to order with Ezra quickly seconding the  motion.  Alli reminded me right off the bat at the top of our meeting agenda was to remind people about hot weather and dogs.  Please, please tell people, Alli implored, that this heat is so very hard on dogs. She went on to add...remember to fill water bowls with cool drinking water.  I agreed and interjected that in this type of heat you can change the water in the bowls several times a day, especially for the dogs outside.  Ezra piped in, don't forget about shade especially for those dogs outdoors. They must have somewhere to get out of the sun!  Libby looked at Ezra out of the corner of her eye and said in a very strong tone...wait, in this heat it would be best to bring your best friend indoors to enjoy the air conditioning or at the very least a fan!  Agreed guys!  Libby went on to say, please remind people not to leave their dogs in hot cars...and remember the little kids too.  It gets hot very quickly and kids and dogs can die in a hot car.  Alli added...Mom tell the people that kiddie pools make great pools for dogs.  We love to cool off in the pool too!  And tell them about giving out ice cubes...I LOVE ice cubes!  Ezra added, tell the people that pavement can get very hot on our paws, so walking in the early morning or evening is best.  All great suggestions guys, I will get the word out!  Happy tail wags all around the table...I could hear a collective sigh of relief!  I then made a motion for us to finish our meeting indoors - Libby, Ezra and Alli second the motion simultaneously!

Remember your best friend during this hot weather!  This has been a public service announcement from the staff of  Pawsitive Journey!  :)

Sunday, June 23, 2013

Ezra's Determination

                                                   Pictured is Ezra after treeing a squirrel. 

 I heard the little squeak just about the time Ezra did and the next thing I saw was the squirrel high tailing it, literally, up this tree.  Ezra is a dog of determination.  He does everything with gusto.  Treeing a squirrel, tearing out after a ground hog or doing agility...he does it all with such determination and dare I say passion!

It was a hot day today.  One of those days you want to hide in the house, but at our little farm/training center there were things to be done.  Matt and I decided to take the dogs on a walk in our favorite woods early in the morning before we cleaned stalls and mowed the fields. Mowing the training field means that all the agility equipment; jumps along with the contact obstacles need to be moved.  After mowing all the jumps and equipment need to be set up all over again. It's a job and a half, so it didn't take much for my hubby to twist my arm to take our walk.

 It felt maybe about 10 degrees cooler deep in the woods on a path that winds it's way around a small creek.  It was lovely and just what I needed.  As I was thinking about my busy week with my training business, replaying the interactions with dogs in my mind and how I could do this or that differently or more effectively, I heard the squeak.  It brought me crashing back to the present moment in time to see Ezra tree his squirrel.  I took the picture above...smiling as I thought about Ezra's determination. It struck me how it takes a great deal of determination to keep focused...to meet the training challenges that are presented to me weekly with gusto and passion!  It might sound silly but Ezra's example brought much encouragement to me.  IF Ezra doesn't give up on the thought that one day he will catch that squirrel...how can I.  Each day as I work with dogs and their humans, I will continue to strive to make that connection and truly make a difference in their lives.  It doesn't always happen...but when it does and you see it all click...it truly is a satisfying feeling!

I won't give up...one dog and one human at a time...my goal is to make it a kinder, more gentler world for dogs and their people...it's a worthy endeavor!  Knowing the heart of my dog Ezra, I can say for certain that he is not going to give up on that squirrel...  I'm following your lead E.Z.

Tuesday, May 28, 2013

Thank you, Sergeant Rex!

I recently read this wonderful book, "Sergeant Rex" The Unbreakable Bond Between A Marine and His Military Working Dog by Mike Dowling.  I highly recommend this book, excellent, one of those books that you pick up and barely put it down until every last word is read.  I haven't had the pleasure of sharing a moment with this type of book in a very long time...it was a wonderful journey!

I will give you a little snip-it from the book, something I have tried to convey many times, a very important concept.  Mike writes about the ability of the canine nose.  Nothing matches it, although the armed services have tried to.  I so like his explanation...so much wisdom and truth when he writes -

"When it comes to tracking down explosives, nature has created in a dog's nose a device infinitely more precise than anything modern technology has to offer.  No one knows for sure, but people say that a dog's nose is one thousand times more sensitive than a human's.  Dogs have millions more scent receptors than humans, and the size of the part of their brain used for analyzing smells is 20 - 40 percent larger than ours.  They can literally sniff out the bombs.  A handler trains his dog how best to use his incredible abilities, so the dog becomes a bomb-detection device with its own mind and driven by a brain.  A good handler learns to trust his dog to lead the way, and to use his instinct and drive to track down the threat.  A mechanical bomb-detection device - like a metal detector - goes only where the operator takes it.  It offers a blunt, unintelligent form of search compared to a dog tracking a scent on the air."

Mike goes onto explain how often times when using a mechanical device you can be right on top of the explosive before it alerts you to danger...too late.  The dogs, on the other hand, tell you way before the threat can take your life!

This book had me sitting on the edge of my seat; crying, laughing and shouting "YES"!  I don't generally do book reviews, but this one has 2 thumbs up from me, plus four paws up from Alli, collie!  A must read!  It is always my pleasure in life to bring to light the wonderful ways in which dogs enrich our lives! And for those who know me well, you know how much of a soft place I have in my heart for our Military Heroes - one and  all.  My hat's off to Sergeant Rex..."atta boy Rex" and to his partner, Mike!!

I also want to take this time to thank all our Military Heroes; Men, Women and Canine!  I especially want to thank two very special WW II veterans - my Dad and Uncle - who are no longer with us - Robert H. Hankey and Robert Toomey (who fought in Patton's army).  I love you both and honor you here today - thank you!  Missed but never forgotten!


Wednesday, May 15, 2013

New Window Decal


Be on the lookout Pawsitive Journey Training has a new decal advertisement on my car!  So happy that a friend of mine knew a man who makes them and put me in touch.  Nice how you can just happen to say something and wha la...by just speaking up you are connected to someone who can help you!  I have wanted to do this for a very long time...

Really happy with the end result and just had to share!

Tuesday, May 14, 2013

Socialize, socialize, socialize


...did I mention how important socialization is for your puppy?  Socialization is top of the list important for your dog.  It would be great if everyone started when their dogs were puppies, but even older dogs can benefit from getting out and about.  Socialization isn't only about introducing your dog to other dogs it is much more.  Socialization is allowing your dog to have opportunity to use their five senses or at least, to see, hear, touch and smell the world around them.  I like to use the sense of taste too as I incorporate different treats and reward their good behavior as we travel and visit all types of people, places and things!

Here is what I share with my students, especially my puppy clients. Be sure all experiences are safe and pawsitive for the puppy.  Each encounter should include treats and lots of praise.  Slow down and add distance if your puppy becomes frightened by an object, thing or person.  By the time your puppy is 12 weeks old it should have

Experienced 12 different surfaces - wood, carpet, grass, dirt, mud, puddles, grates, sand, linoleum, stones, mulch, stairs etc.

Played with 12 different objects - fuzzy toys, big and small toys, rubber toys, cloth toys, hard and soft toys, cardboard, toys that make sounds, milk jugs, wood items, metal items etc.

Experienced 12 different locations - front yard, lake/pond/river, basement, elevator, car, moving car, other people's homes, school, vet (just to say hi), groomer (just to say hi), stores such a Lowe's, playgrounds, etc

Meet and Play with 12 different types of people (outside of family) - baby, toddler, young children, men, men with hats, men with sunglasses, men with facial hair, women with hats, women with lots of jewelry and perfume, people in wheelchairs, people with canes, people with walkers and crutches etc.

Exposed to 12 different noises(always watch puppies comfort level and stay pawsitive, be careful not to frightened the puppy) - garage door opening, children playing/laughing/singing, babies crying, loud motorcycles, car horns, sirens, vacuums, lawn mowers, clapping, washing machine, dryer, whistles, etc

Exposed to 12 fast moving objects/things/people(but remember don't allow puppy to chase) - skateboards, bicycles, roller blades, roller skates, scooters, people running, cats running, squirrels running, horses running, motorboats, fast cars/trucks, fast moving motorcycles, etc.

The skies the limit as long as your dog is safe at all times.  And the good news, it's never too late, you can go over this list with older dogs too.  Remember when you see a new person, place, thing, object or another dog be aware of your body language, don't tense up or put tension on your puppy's lead.  If you feel uncomfortable about a situation, take a deep breath and be proactive by redirecting your puppies attention to something else and ask them to follow you away from the scary situation (use a lure such as a treat to help redirect their attention).

Have fun enjoying life with your dog...a well socialized dog is a pleasure to take anywhere!



Saturday, February 23, 2013

Watching...


I had just received my hubby's call telling me he was on his way home.  I am always so happy to receive this call as his days are very busy and sometimes he is delayed for some reason on another.  As I disconnected my cell phone from his call, I came around the corner to see our Alli, collie sitting on the chair looking out the window.  Was she waiting for him?  And did she know he was on his way?  I believe she did know Matthew was on his way home.  Scientist have done studies on this, even when the person comes home at a time that isn't normal, their dog knew they were on their way and went to their spot to wait and watch.

Alli is the guardian at our house.  She watches over everything and everyone in the house.  I have heard her and watched her make her nightly rounds.  If Alli barks, I pay attention...always.  So nice to know she is watching...   Which reminds me of the One who watches over all of us.  I am thankful that I was reminded today, through Alli, of this truth as I wait and watch for someone I love to return...

Friday, February 22, 2013

What, me worry?

Took this picture of peace and contentment of collie, Alli last evening.  I took it in the midst of all the warnings blaring from internet, tv and radio that the apocalyptic ice storm was approaching.  I scrambled to fill buckets, as often when it's icey or windy here our electric goes out and when this happens we have no water.  Matthew was busy chopping more wood to bring in before the ice encased it outdoors.

As we were finishing with our preparations, I noticed Alli...so peaceful, so content.  I decided to join her by the fire and enjoy the moment.  There is absolutely nothing wrong with preparing reasonably for the storm.  But after you have done all you can do...just stand...relax, have peace.  I so often forget to live in the moment, I can easily work up a storm right in my own mind of "what if".  I also find that so often the things I think up that could happen, never really do happen. I get so busy worrying about what could be...that I don't enjoy the moment with those I love right next to me.

I am working on it, I have opportunity right now to put living in the moment into practice.  There are storms about me, but I choose to do what I can do...pray mightily, stand, relax and find peace.  Life will never be without storms...but we can choose to live in the moment even in the midst of them.  Thanks for the reminder, Alli!


Monday, January 28, 2013

Billy and I - day 5

Thankfully, our ice storm turned to rain today.  Unfortunately, with the slippery surface remaining under the rain, Bill and I decided to take another day off. I looked for a picture to share from outdoors, but then quickly decided there really isn't a good picture to share when it's raining at the barn.  As I walked past my beautifully cleaned leather harness lines and bridle hanging on my laundry room door...I instantly thought it would be a good picture to share.  I just cleaned our driving lines and the entire harness.  I kept the lines and bridle hanging, not sure why, perhaps just for inspiration and encouragement.  Each time I view them, I dream of the nice driving weather to come...

I was thinking how disappointing rain can be.  I can't tell you the times I prepared for an event and then had to show in the pouring rain. My outfit, my tack, my beautifully groomed and braided horse coming in from our jumping round muddy and soaking wet!  I can distinctly remember riding a green gelding at a hunter show.  It seemed that our turn for jumping coincided with a tremendous downpour.  I also remember my sweet horse almost sliding into a fence and at the last minute deciding he could jump it - thankfully the jumps were low.  We made it around, it wasn't pretty but this sweet boy, who really was not yet keen on jumping these obstacles, kept me safe.  In hindsight, we probably should have retired...ah, youth and the feeling of being invisible!

But then there is something so sweet about coming in from the rain, that comforting feeling of peeling off those wet clothes, soaking in a warm bath, followed by a lovely cup of hot chocolate.  Of thinking about the day and how you made it.  You met the challenges of the day.  There is something so good about that feeling of knowing you did it!  Another way in which rain helps us to grow...if you think about it.

Tomorrow the temperature is suppose to rise close to 60 degrees.  I look forward to Billy and I getting back to work.  Until then...have a great day all!




Sunday, January 27, 2013

Billy and Alli - day 4

A happy visit from granddaughter, Alli this weekend.  No walking this morning with Billy but a wonderful visit by his favorite little girl last evening.  Matthew was taking pictures of all the ponies with Alli. As I walked up to Billy he was a bit ahead of us and I asked him to back up and he did and just stood with us for the picture!  My eyes got as big as quarters...'did he really just back up like that when I asked', Matthew said, 'he sure did, that pony would do anything for you'!

Alli took a quick sit on Billy...he stood like a gentleman and didn't move a muscle.  A great time was had by all!  Love that little grandlady and that pony too!

Happy Sunday to you!!

Saturday, January 26, 2013

Billy and I - Day 3

I woke up to another spectacular snowy day.  I couldn't resist taking photos from my house, beautiful big fluffy snowflakes gently falling on a quiet winter's morning.  I can't help myself...I like snow.  I much prefer snow over mud and 90 degree days with 90% humidity.  I have set my mind to enjoy this beautiful weather and to not let one training moment pass us by...

I could barely wait to get out of bed this morning and wake up my pony for our daily walk!  I can't tell you the last time I felt that much excitement...it's been quite a long time and it felt good.  As I watched the time go by slowly on my nightstand clock - 6:10 am...7:22 am - I decided to just get up and make an early morning of it (even though it is a Saturday morning).

As I put my layers on I was laying out my path for Bill and I in my mind.  I decided to revisit our creek and walk our neighbors very hilly 4 acre pasture.  Actually, the house is empty at the moment and I was sure no one would mind us walking the fence line.  I would be sure to watch out for gopher holes and...have some fun.  I was especially happy as my hubby wanted to join Bill and I.  I know he probably would have liked to bring his pony along for the walk, but I had to remind him that my goal is to take Bill out solo so we can help him overcome always having to be with his friends.  No problem...Matthew was game!

As the snow gently fell we started out. I was pleased right at the start that Bill seemed happy to go and that my lead rope wasn't taunt.  He just followed right by me, out the gate, over my frozen 8x8 elevated garden plot and into the next pasture.  We went to the creek first and he followed...he jumped it as if there were crocodiles ready grab him...but he followed me...no hesitation...all go!  Good boy!  We came to the For Sale sign at the top of the lane of our previous neighbors.  Bill walked right up to it and gave it a sniff...good boy!
He fairly leaned his head on the sign and I couldn't help but take a minute and get the picture.  Funny how a pony's brain works...I thought he might think twice about this sign and didn't at all...I didn't think he'd look twice at the  trash can yesterday and he did.  We then went to visit the bright read pipe sticking out from the pond, again not a thought about it.  We walked up a very steep hill and continued to have a nice loopy lead...out for a stroll enjoying the moment.  This is really fun.  I do have to admit I did have to ask Bill to stand a few times while going up the hills today...but after all, it is good practice right?  And I was able to catch my breath.  I am happy for the opportunity for me to get fit as well! Huff...puff...huff...whew!  Billy was patient and kind and didn't think anything about our stops and starts.  Good boy!  Matt decided to help me as we started up our second big hill...I have to admit that was very nice.  Good boy, Matt!  :)  I was also very pleased that the girls left at home didn't whinny once.  Amazing...only our 3rd day out and things are settling into routine...  Billy didn't dance at anything today, he was forward and didn't balk at anything as well...we walked under the clothes line, over a couple wooden railroad poles and down the long drive way.  We decided to walk back to our farm on the road.  It's always a bit quieter on our road on Saturdays and Sundays.  I was pleased that we had a truck come down the hill opposite and behind us and he slowed way down.  I thanked him and waved him on.  We were right in the road and Bill stopped and faced the truck and just stood...again a loopy lead...well done buddy!  We then had several cars come toward us and we walked to the side of the road without barely a nod from Bill.  Amazing how when you simply ask of your horse or pony, they so willing follow you.  Often times, we so often make up a story in our mind how our horse doesn't like this or he'll freak out at that...  I've done the same thing and realized how much I put us both in a box that we didn't deserve to be in.  I haven't done a great deal of road work with Bill because of my own silly thoughts.  I am so glad that I decided to embark on this journey...so happy to see again the willingness of my pony to follow me!

Happy day to you!

Friday, January 25, 2013

Billy and I - Day 2


Today was absolutely beautiful for our walk.  It was about 16 degrees with a lovely, soft, light snow falling as we enjoyed our second day of walking solo around the neighborhood.  We crossed the road immediately today and walked our neighbor's 2 acre plus lot, pass the wood pile, no problem today.  We get to the top of the hill and my wonderful neighbor let her pack of Brittanies out to run the adjoining field.  God love her...perfect.  Bill stopped and looked, danced a bit and I had him walk back to the fence line and we continued forward.  I couldn't have been happier with the timing of this, barely crest the hill and we see the pack of about 6 red and white wiggly dogs come bounding out of the house and up towards us by the fence line! Perfect!  I was pleased with Bill as well, he noticed them, was pretty excited about them but stayed with me and then moved forward.  I can work with that.  The silly mare's in our field were whinnying again as we returned across the road toward our property and I was again pleased that Billy ignored them.  No returned whinnies! We walked the opposite direction today past our farm and Bill spotted a dreaded garbage can with colorful bags beside it.  It was across our road and with the slippery surface I felt it wouldn't be a good thing to be in the road if a car should come down the hill.  So we stood and looked at it across the road for sometime until he just gave up the excitement.  As we were standing there a couple of our neighbor's horses spotted Billy and I and came to their fence line, again across the road, snorting and dancing...yay!  Billy took note but didn't return the snort or the dance..."good boy".  We then found a stream to cross and Bill followed me without hesitation jumping across.  We will return to this place again and hopefully next week when it warms up and rains, we can play in the water...I have to remember to wear my tall boots, but great training - can anyone say "water hazard"!

We returned to our gate, Bill kind of slowed his pace...I think he wanted to continue our walk...that's another good sign.  I think he is enjoying our walks just as much if not more than I am.  I had many people drive by and wave...that's kind of fun.  We had several things happen today that are all good training moments and I was pleased with Billy's response.  

With our goals in mind we will continue our training plan.  I can't help it, I like this pony and enjoy spending time with him too!  Until tomorrow...have a great day all!

Bill and I - Winter Training


Bill (my driving pony) and I have several goals this year...several events we'd like to attend.  Bucket list type things that I've wanted to do for a while, but because of other responsibilities, I just never had the time to put into these particular goals.  I will eventually share those goals, but for now I just want to use my blog as a diary of sorts.  It's always a good thing to Journal as it allows you to see your progress or lack thereof.

Yesterday was our start date.  What a beautifully cold and sunny day.  It was about 12 degrees but the sun made it feel much warmer.  Billy was keen to head out the gate.  I had ground driven him a couple days before and he headed for the upper gate and stood.  That's a good sign...he wanted to take a walk around the neighborhood, but it wasn't in our plans for the day.  Billy has become a bit herd bound.  He started his driving career as my only driving partner and when we attended events it was with him only.  We then added a second driving pony to our family; my husband and Miss and Bill decided he reeaallly liked to have company.  So much so it was hard for him to leave his friend when asked.  It can happen and I didn't notice it until it came to a bit of a challenge point.  "Uh-oh" I should have seen this coming way before...but I didn't. So my plan this year is to go back to Billy and I going out solo.

Since the ground is covered in snow and slippery and we couldn't drive, I thought it would be a good thing for us to take a walk; for him to practice leaving his friends and for our fitness level to walk around our country neighborhood.  We live on an extremely busy road, one that truly would not be safe to drive on...but walking is another matter entirely and we have lots of places we can explore.

Day 1 we walked around our neighbors 2 acre field, up by the road and on the road when no cars were in sight (thankfully we did have a car pass us as we were standing right by the road and Bill was fine - "good boy").  We then crossed the road and walked up behind our neighbors house (we have been given permission by our neighbors to walk their property lines in advance) by a wood pile while a little animal scurried out from under some rubble - Bill spooked in place, another "atta boy" - around our neighbor's 2 plus acre lot, back across the road, out in front of our pasture while Bill's mares whinnied to him, of which, Billy did not whiny back which again was a very "good boy".  Billy was forward and looking all around but very good and listened well.  Back to the barn.

A very good start...