Life with the Park City Dogs

One year later...

2011-09-15T00:18:00.000-06:00

Marley continues to be awesome!

Paulson, my 6th GDB puppy, is two months away from his recall to formal training.

Rafferty was career changed for cataracts and came home to be my forever dog.

Becky was career changed and is now in training as a service dog.

Rafferty is in training to be a search and rescue dog.

I am still living at the Ranch (which the boys love!).

Change

2010-10-04T08:38:00.000-06:00

I am still alive! There have been some very big changes in my life over the past month and it is about time I did a post. I am now living by myself and am down to *just* two dogs. Marley and Rafferty. Dante has decided to live in luxury with my parents and keep my mom company. Hugo left with his dad for a different life path and Becky has headed to her very awesome high school raiser. It feels so weird to only have two dogs after always having 3-4 for the last 3.5 years.

What does this mean? Well for starters I am no longer involved in training Hugo for Search and Rescue. He has started down a great path and I wish him well! I still plan to stay involved with SAR work, though I may take the winter off. Marley and I are hoping to start tracking training this month. Marley may not be the ideal tracking dog, but we will have fun and see where it goes. Rafferty has 2 months left with me and then he heads off to college for his formal training. I know he will have fun and be amazing at whatever career he chooses! I do plan on getting another puppy when Rafferty leaves.

As for me I am taking this time to find myself and delight in the simple joys of life. Work continues to be challenging and fulfilling, my place out in the country is perfect for me right now, and I have re-discovered and made some amazing new friendships. I traveled to the GDB homecoming event last weekend and was once again reminded just how amazing these partnerships are...at every step of the way. I will have a bigger post (with pictures) for the Homecoming event and Becky's new raiser.

Always remember

Don't wait for the storm to pass....learn to dance in the rain.

Rafferty with his shiny black coat and golden eyes pants after a hike.

All the Colors of the Rainbow

2010-08-29T17:47:00.000-06:00

Rafferty, Snickers, and Becky sit in front of a stone wall. They go in order from darkest to lightest...black, chocolate, and yellow.

Rafferty gives me pleading eyes as I take yet more pictures. Rafferty, Snickers, and Becky all sit in a line.

Becky Update

2010-08-20T08:48:00.001-06:00

While scrolling through old posts I realized I have not said much about Becky lately. She is such a good girl and has been a blast to raise so far. Of course, like every other puppy, she has taught me new things and made me happy to have a girl pup around again. She turns 6 months in just 2 weeks, two days after our big evaluation with our CFR. Becky is still slated to be transferred to the high school raising program at the end of September. She is fun, resilient, and smart: this girl has a bright future ahead of her.

Some pictures from the past 3.5 months...

[Baby Becky, about 11-12 weeks old, hangs out in her crate, preferring to be under her mat rather than on it.]

[Barley legal Becky hanging out at the Farmers market.]

[Becky doing her frog legs sit]

[First Trax ride and Becky is stoked!]

[Becky tried after a big outing]

[Becky hanging out at the car dealership waiting for my car to be fixed.]

[Becky being such a good girl on an outing!]

Happy Birthday Rafferty

2010-08-14T22:48:00.000-06:00

My baby boy!

First Bath!

Recovering from his neuter. Just waking up!

Checking out the snow.

In Oregon for Millie's graduation.

A more rustic bath!

In San Francisco!

New Puppies!

2010-08-13T09:05:00.000-06:00

Yesterday the very wonderful Guide Dogs for the Blind Puppy Truck made a stop in Salt Lake to hand out puppies to their new raisers. Our club has been pretty small for most of the year, but with two new pups we are starting to grow again in size. Two wonderful raisers who had taken breaks after their last dogs got to find out their new pups names!

Introducing...

Rhyme (Simon/Melody)

and.....

Crosby (Jay/Noleta)

And of course my post wouldn't be complete without a quick peak at the newest celebrity in town. Introducing.....

Snickers

He is being raised by Megan!

Muir Woods

2010-08-12T09:31:00.000-06:00

This is probably my favorite picture from Muir Woods. We went there on the Friday before Funday. Rafferty and I were just walking along through the mid-afternoon shadows when we came across this perfect beam of light. It highlighted the fence and trees surrounding it, giving Rafferty a unique light in which to pose. I love the curve of his neck and how he is turned: he has such a regal expression on his face. Oh how I love my boy! The news that he will be staying with me until at least December was met with cheers of joy!

Wordless Wednesday

2010-08-11T09:42:00.000-06:00

Dog Days of Summer

2010-07-12T12:23:00.001-06:00

Here are some thoughts on summer as told by my dogs...

1. Relax and just enjoy the sun on your face.

2. Make time to hang out with old and new friends.

3. Turn bath time into fun time.

4. Be enthusiastic

5. Share your stuff.

6. Go for a swim.

7. Take a nap in the shade.

8. Try your hardest to get dirty!

9. Take a walk and enjoy the great outdoors.

10. Do something you enjoy with a friend.

My New Place

2010-07-12T12:00:00.001-06:00

Well the last two months have just been a whorl-wind. First we had two back-to-back trips, one to Colorado, the other to Yellowstone for Search and Rescue Training. Next it was time to get ready to move. My work just opened a new rescue facility where all of our animals will be housed initially and where the dogs will stay at night. I lucked out and got one of the caretaker apartments...but that meant trying to move while also opening a brand new facility and still keeping the adoption center running! Needless to say, it has been a fast ride!

[A large, red and stone, barn-type building with wooden decks sits in front of dusky mountains. It is surrounded by sage-brush]

We are now all moved in and enjoying the peace and quiet after having lived in town for many years. The property sits on 100+ acres, so Marley is in his element. With so much room to run and no where to really run to he and Hugo are having a blast!

We live in a one bedroom apartment over the 16,000 square foot Ranch. My favorite part so far is being able to use one of the 3! dog baths!!! Makes grooming go sooo much quicker with 4 dogs!

[A far away view of the Ranch building. Many acres of sagebrush surround the building.]

The views are pretty amazing: "Million Dollar Views" as they are commonly called here. But it is pretty isolated. My commute is much longer now. No more quick runs to the grocery store! All in all it has been really fun so far and I hope it continues to be!

[A dirt road winds its way through sagebrush with sunlit hills in the background.]

[Shadowy/blue mountains sit in the distance under a light purple and pink cloudy sky.]

[The sun sets behind a hill turning it to black. The clouds are a darker purple and touched with pink.]

[A dirt road winds through sagebrush under a light blue sky. The distant Wasatch mountains are dusky in the evening light.]

Even some of the weeds out here are pretty!

[A thistle blossom goes from green on the outside to crimson and then white in the very center.]

Update #1

2010-06-06T00:16:00.000-06:00

Well my goal of posting everyday in March has kinda gone out the window. We have had some busy and fun weekends the last three weeks. Here is the first of many updates!

[Hugo pulls up on the rope on his orange toy as it floats in the water]

Two weekends ago we headed out to Colorado to spend the weekend at a friend's Ranch. Marley and Hugo were the lucky pair who got to come along. A couple of days spent romping in the pond, running with all the other dogs, and watching all the horses, donkeys, and assorted other farm animals left them nice and tired. Here are some of the pictures from the trip!

[Marley doing his best stare down as he waits for Hugo to come close enough to pounce on]

[Hugo swims through the water with his eyes bright and full of excitement as he carries his orange Ruff Wear toy]

[Marley stands in the water while looking into the distance. Water streams off his coat]

[A close up shot of Hugo swimming back after retrieving his orange toy. His eyes are partway shut and there is water on his face]

[A close up shot of Marley looking pensively off into the distance. The wind ruffles the hair on his ears]

[Howdy, a black and white Border Collie, lays down in the grass staring at what he is getting ready to herd next. In the case it was the group of running children. His ears are perked and he is practicing the 'border collie' eye]

Funny Friday

2010-05-14T23:34:00.000-06:00

What's that you say mom...time for fun? With a tub, some water, and shampoo....?

Ug, well I am pretty sure that means a bath...which is so NOT fun.

Silly people and their fancy dinners. I thought that dead squirell smelled just fine to me!

FunDay 2010!

2010-05-13T22:14:00.001-06:00

Ok, ok, so I know it is still over 2 months until Funday...but I like to get my plans done EARLY! We are driving out 2 days before and coming back the day after Funday. I would LOVE to to a meet-up with any other bloggers/puppy raisers: you can leave a comment or email me privately. We plan on doing 'Follow the Trainer', Muir Woods, Pier 39, and at least one beach trip. If anyone is familiar with the area and can recommend any other activities (that would be good to do with 3 people and 3 guide dog pups) please let me know.

I am really excited for this trip as I did not make it out last year. This year the theme is 'Western' and I am currently on the hunt for some nice cowboy hats for the dogs. Already have a black one for Miss Becky...but Janetta and Rafferty need tan hats so they have some contrast.

A note on my posting (or lack there-of this week)....I have been meaning too...but with over 20 new animals in at work, plus SAR training and a new puppy, I have just been a little behind. Hopefully I will start catching up and staying on target!

A big congrats to PARIS who is already in PHASE 1!!!! At this rate I need to start blocking out Aug/Sept graduation dates for OR :) Go PARIS!!!

Let me know if you are going to the San Rafael Funday...should be a howlin' good time!

River Pups

2010-05-10T23:00:00.001-06:00

Rafferty watches Marley as he trys his luck at "fishing".

Rafferty wondering why I am snapping pictures instead of playing in the COLD water with him.

Marley "fishing" in the river. Not sure if he was going for actual fish or just light colored rocks.

Marley planning his next nose dive into the water...

Missy, our 15 year old dachshund feeling her oats as she digs for a mouse.

Sparky, also 15, enjoys then sun and the smells. He also enjoyed following me around and waiting for a treat. He may be mostly deaf and partially blind, but man his nose is as good as ever!

And of course what post would be complete without a baby puppy picture.

Off to Doggie College

2010-05-09T23:10:00.000-06:00

Today Paris headed off to Guide Dog's Oregon campus for her formal harness training (aka doggie college). She has been with Megan since last September and has gotten the best possible instruction for success in whatever she decides to do. She was my surprise puppy at last years puppy truck and taught me so much with her joy and enthusiasm. Even after two eye surgeries Paris was always ready to go on that grand adventure we call life.

I was lucky enough to see Paris before she left and snapped a picture that shows just how much she has grown and matured. I know my baby girl will be the best at whatever she sets her mind to, though I would love to see her in harness in a couple months!

Good Luck Paris!!!

And her name is....

2010-05-07T17:56:00.003-06:00

Becky

Becky is my fifth puppy for Guide Dogs for the Blind. She is a starter puppy for the High School Raising Program. She will be with me until late Sept/early Oct. She was born 2.28.10 to Piedmont/Geraldine. So far she has been a great puppy. As good as one can expect for a baby to hold still during pictures, not a whole lot of crying in her crate, and she was very easy to bathe!

This was a very cool puppy truck for me as I was able to have my 3rd, 4th, and 5th puppies all together. Paris, my third pup, leaves Sunday for formal training at the Oregon campus.

Summer Fun

2010-05-06T23:30:00.000-06:00

Well we did it. Tom and I bought a raft today. We got hooked on river rafting last summer and have been looking for a used raft. Found one and got it! Now to do some outfitting, get some dates set, and head to the river. Marley and Hugo are going to have another fun summer. Oh yeah, and we bought a big raft so the dogs would have plently of room. They are not spoiled at all. Lucky dogs.

Wordless Wednesday

2010-05-05T23:46:00.000-06:00

Bowling

2010-05-04T23:48:00.003-06:00

This past Saturday we had a final puppy meeting for Jackson who will be leaving on the puppy truck Friday morning. I was very lucky to have Megan come up with Paris and join our group for some puppy bowling fun. (We weren't bowling with the actual puppies :)

Jackson and Paris were our club's spring pups last year so it was very cool to have the final meeting be a going away party for both of them.

Wilderness Rescue Training

2010-05-03T22:01:00.000-06:00

Today I headed down and met up with Megan and Gabby for some practice in wilderness searches. When first training a 'air scent' dog we do something called 'runaways'. These are short, easy sessions in which a victim runs away with the dog's toy. This is all done in sight of the dog, and at first is very simple. The idea is to get the dog to want to find their toy, and in doing so also find the person. As they progress they start to associate the toy with the scent of a person.

Gradually runaways get harder and harder, forcing the dog to rely more on scent than sight. Today we did a couple simple runaways and then progressed to more difficult searches. Hugo is being trained to do a 're-find'. This means that when he locates a person he will come back to his handler and give an alert. In his case this is a bark alert. When he barks at me I then give him the "show me" command and he will lead me back to the victim. This is very important when searching large areas where the dog may range far ahead or be out of sight due to thick vegetation.

Hugo was doing very nicely with his re-finds with only a little prompting from myself. We also did a blind search where he did not watch the person run away: but he still found them! While we are working in very small areas right now, Hugo is learning important skills that will later be put to the test when searching large areas. What a fun activity that will hopefully lead to a very important job!

At the end of the training session I got to do lunch with Gabby, Megan and Paris! Such a treat especially when Paris heads off for formal training in less than a week. All in all it was a great day!

Cadaver Scent Imprinting

2010-05-02T22:55:00.000-06:00

About 6 weeks ago I started training Hugo in search and rescue. Tom and I are both partnering on this training adventure, and both of us will hopefully be certified to work Hugo in different capacities. Right now I am doing the bulk of the cadaver work while Tom is focusing more on wilderness, with a plan to shift to avalanche once the season starts. However we both attend training sessions and are learning to work with Hugo in every capacity.

Today we went and worked on a pigeon hole board. This is a long sheet of plywood with evenly spaced round holes cut into it. There is a top row, middle row, and bottom row. Behind the holes are short plastic tubes that are open both in the front and the back. The idea here is to bring a dog who has been exposed to cadaver scent and start teaching him that the reward comes from the source. This is to create both a reliable alert and a loyalty to their find. In wilderness training the same principle is applied, but with a live victim it is easier to have their reward waiting for them.

Once the dog understands the principle behind looking for the scent, a helper will move the source and place it in a different hole each round. The handler will stand back and give the dog their search command. Once the dog starts searching it is the helpers job to keep the dog focused on the search and to reward the dog from inside the hole once they alert on the scent. Hugo's alert is a down at the source. Today was only his second time working the pigeon hole board and he was already figuring out his alert!

After a couple successful rounds on the board we took him out into a more natural setting where a source had been placed in a tree low to the ground. It was a very easy set-up, but a very big step for Hugo. This was the moment where we would see if he had truly learned the unique scent and would seek it out. After giving him the search command we waited anxiously as he started to sniff the area. He was working pretty fast when he caught the scent as he went past the tree. His head snapped around and he went right to the source!!! We were very excited and praised Hugo. He did not give an automatic down, but for the first search in a new area he was awesome! We will continue to work on his alerts and search. One of the evaluators said we could possibly test Hugo in his Cadaver 1 certification this fall as well as in Wilderness, with an avalanche certification following early winter.

Can't wait to continue working with Hugo and watching his quick progress!

Daily Blogging, Round 2

2010-05-01T23:59:00.002-06:00

Well, May looks to be an eventful month. One I am going to attempt to cover with daily blog posts. Highlights to include: a recap of tonight's bowling send-off party for Paris and Jackson, coverage of two new puppies to Summit Guide Dogs, Marley's prep for Splash! Dogs, and Hugo's trip to Yellowstone for Search and rescue training. Today's will be short but oh so sweet.

October-April

2010-04-27T08:41:00.005-06:00

From October through the end of April: Rafferty has grown so much, both Marley and Hugo got their therapy dog certifications, and Hugo has started search and rescue training. Dante hibernated and is now ready for warm weather! Rafferty has been a great puppy and in less than two weeks he will have a younger 'brother' or 'sister' to mentor. I am once again starting a puppy for the high school raising program. We are going to have one busy summer...Rafferty continues to mature, Hugo works on wilderness/cadaver search training, Marley gets started on therapy work (and hopefully Splash dogs!), and a new puppy from Guide Dogs for the Blind joins into the mix.

Spring Time in the Mountains...

2010-04-08T12:47:00.010-06:00

Things have been a little crazy around here lately. We had the biggest storm of the season over the past weekend and the dogs enjoyed the snow. I, however, did not enjoy snowblowing the driveway. Though I did get in some pretty amazing powder skiing on April 1st (no joke!). On Tuesday Rafferty got to show off his snow skills by plowing through powder and then knocking me over while I attempted to capture his snow frenzy on camera. Our Paw It Forward package arrived from Natalie and Bob yesterday and the Marley and Hugo had a lot of fun playing with their new throw toy while Rafferty bounded along behind. They were rather irritated when I made them sit and pose for the picture rather than letting them have all of the new treats.

All that powder "skiing" makes for some tired pups at the end of the day.

Leave a comment with the word "Spring" if you would like to particiapte in the Paw it Forward! First 3 will get a gift from the Pack!

Graduation

2010-03-15T13:05:00.021-06:00

Friday morning we left bright and early. The car was packed, the dogs were fed, and it was time to leave. We dropped Marley off at my parents house and started on our trip. We were about 30min in when I realized I had forgot my phone! So we backtracked, grabbed my phone, and re-started the trip. We drove through northern Utah, the bottom part of Idaho, and across Oregon. We battled tumbleweeds, drove past many farms, and marveled at the drive through the Columbia River Gorge (getting very excited for rafting and kayaking this summer in the process!). After about 12.5 hours, the last 2 of which were spent in pouring rain, we arrived at the hotel. Exhausted and excited, we went to sleep early.

Saturday morning I woke up early, excited for the day ahead. After a quick breakfast and park session for Rafferty and Hugo we drove to downtown Portland to checkout the sights. We drove around looking at all the cool bridges and finally found a market along the river's edge. It was the Portland Saturday Market. We walked along enjoying the gorgeous morning and looking at the city in general. I grabbed an awesome crepe with Marion Berries while we both ogled the Rogue Brewery booth.

Next we set out to head to Boring and the Guide Dogs for the Blind campus. We arrived right at 11:30 and headed down to the kennel kitchen to check in Rafferty. Next we met up with other raisers in the visitors center and prepared to head over to the dorms to meet our puppies and their new handlers! There were 6 dogs graduating, and with 4 of the raisers being local, there were some larger groups waiting for their reunion. We settled in a corner and waited for Millie and Mike to appear. Other guides walked by, and many happy reunions occurred.

Finally Millie appeared with Mike and an instructor walking down the hall. For this first reunion they have the graduates heel the guide dogs without a harness as they know how excited the dogs will be when seeing their raisers. When Mike reached us I had just enough time for a handshake and "Mike, I am Sarah" before Millie went wild! She was so cute: wiggling, jumping, sniffing, and licking all in a burst of excitement. I sat on the floor for a couple of minutes loving on her. Then she went over to Tom and had another excited reunion. Afterwards we sat down with Mike and just got to know him. Millie is his 6th guide dog over the last 3 decades. He seemed very happy with her, and she with him.

Millie was on a different collar than the other dogs graduating. She only had a martingale because she was just so easy to handle. This is perfect for Mike as he has some other health issues that would not work well with a very strong dog. He kept describing walking with Millie as "taking a relaxing walk in the park." We did formal pictures and then I was left alone with Millie before the actual graduation ceremony. We hung out in a small room with the other raisers and guides while we waited for our chance to go on stage and present our pups. I don't actually remember all that I said. Something about how we always hear about how great of a match GDB makes, and just how amazing it is to see with a pup you had raised. I also joked about people asking me why I was driving 13 hours for a dog graduation and my response that is was not just any dog...it was Millie!

After graduation we hung out and chatted a little more with Mike. I gave Millie her presents (a sterilized bone, Nylabone, and Kong with peanut butter stuffin), and exchanged phones numbers and addresses with Mike so I could send a completed photo album later on. Mike lives just about 2 hours from campus, and by this time his son in-law had arrived to pick him up. We said our final goodbyes, snapped a couple of pictures, and watched Millie walk away.

Afterwards we went down to the kennel kitchen to pick up Rafferty. There I met Martha and Kristin, her current puppy. After chatting and getting the customary picture of the board we headed back to the gift shop, where I met the couple who had volunteered and driven down to pick up Millie and the other "recalled" dogs back in October. Finally, all good-byes said, we headed back into Portland.

There we had a great dinner at the Rogue Brewery public house. We loved the growlers you could buy (they had a lab on them!). Then it was time to go back to the hotel and sleep so we could make the long drive back the next day. Graduation was such an amazing experience...I would not have missed it for the world!!!

In Class!

2010-03-01T21:15:00.003-07:00

Thats right, Millie is in Class with her new person. She is in a two week class with her future partner. She is set to graduate next Saturday. Now, something can always happen, but right now she is with her person and in the final stretch to becoming a Guide Dog! I am working to figure out how I will get there...either fly or drive. My first graduate, I am so excited! What do you do when you find out your pup is in class?

Some Sunday Stills

2010-02-28T20:59:00.007-07:00

Birthday Outing

2010-02-18T09:18:00.004-07:00

Sunday was Hugo's 3rd birthday. In light of his special day we took all the dogs on a hike. Fun was had by all: Hugo played with his frisbee, Rafferty played in the snow, and Marley found a deer pelvis. Yup, that's right, not just a leg or a joint, but the whole pelvis, with vertebrae still attached. Rafferty turned 6 months on Monday and continues to be a great pup, even if he does like to wake me up at the same time on weekends. Here are some pictures from our fun day!

Thank you Mimi for the help on getting the "Big Pictures". I love it!

Phase 10

2010-02-11T10:23:00.002-07:00

Millie is in Phase 10. Of 10. Time to start looking at graduation dates and make sure I keep those weekends clear. Of course something could still happen...but I am so excited!!!!

Millie is my first phase 10!!

Bad Blogger...updates!

2010-02-11T09:05:00.009-07:00

So I have been a bad blogger lately. No updates, no pictures...I really hadn't even logged in in the last two weeks. There even have been things to blog about! I will have to keep this a shorter post, but here are some of the happenings in the land of the PC dog pack.

I attended a pre-interview with Marley and Hugo for Intermountain Therapy Animals. This was to make sure they would be suitable candidates for undergoing temperament testing to become certified therapy dogs. I went to a workshop talking all about therapy dogs, animal-assisted therapy, and how everything works. The following day, Marley and I went down to one of the rehab centers in the valley to do our test.

Now I had felt for a long time that Marley was ready in almost every category...except meeting another dog. Now don't get me wrong, Marley loves other dogs. But his first reaction is to bark and make alot of noise when he sees another dog while he is on-lead. So the test starts out easy. Loose leash walking, sit, down, stay, come...walk through a crowd, let a stranger pet him: he passed all these with flying colors. And then it came time for the "meeting of the dogs". The other dog was a very nice standard poodle...but when facing the dog across the room, with all of my stress traveling down the leash, Marley decided this was something Not Good. And so he barked. I redirected, taking him out of sight, and doing some quick obedience. And we faced off again. While better, I knew he was still not ready for the walk by. Finally, after about 3 min...I had calmed down, and so had Marley (hmmm...relationship?) We squared off and walked the dogs past each other without further incident.

At this point I was not sure what would happen. I had maintained complete control over Marley, but his loud vocalizations may make him not be able to pass his test. My evaluator told me that as long as we worked alone on visits, or only with dogs Marley is already familiar with, we would be fine. I was relived, as Marley tested SO well on every other aspect of the test. I can't wait to start doing visits with my fun-loving boy! I actually had him at a school presentation on Monday, with a crowd of 10 1st graders sitting around him, and he could not have loved it more!

Hugo tests the first weekend in March, and then I will have my therapy dogs ready for work!

Millie is still in phase 8. Lots of Stuff to Learn at doggie college. I can't wait to see what career she chooses.

Rafferty has not gotten very much mention here, because, well, there is just not much to say without sounding like an overly bragging mom. He has just been a near-perfect puppy so far...almost making me feel guilty for having such an easy boy as my fourth pup. He has been house trained for months, is a joy to take into public, a wonderful pup to have around the house, and just continues to remind me how lucky I am to be a puppy raiser.

Phase 8

2010-01-28T19:48:00.003-07:00

Well Millie is still cruising along in phase 8. She skipped phase 7 three weeks ago. Here is what she has been working on. I will do a nice big update this weekend. Rafferty continues to grow and be an amazing puppy, Marley and Hugo are going in for their Therapy Dog testing next month, and Dante is wishing the snow would just go away. I am loving it, and trying to ski as much as possible. Maybe one of the days I will actually be able to keep up with Tom. Watching him ski telemark is almost like watching art.

Phase #7

Guidework in extremely challenging downtown urban areas (San Francisco and Portland)
Training on buses, light rail/subway systems and platform edges
Introduction to low overhead clearances
Advanced off-leash obedience
Formal traffic training

Phase #8

Advanced guidework and obedience training continues
Intensive indoor mall training with crowds and slick floors
Advanced sidewalkless training with obstacles.

Making a Difference

2010-01-19T08:27:00.005-07:00

I came across the post on the GDB blog page about the Search Dog Foundation deployment. Right now there is a career change dog down in Haiti helping to find buried victims....what an amazing thing this pup has gone on to do! Check out the Search Dog Foundation and see the amazing training they give to these dogs and their handlers.

I love reading about all the things our pups can go on to do: guide dogs, service dogs, diabetic alert dogs, SAR dogs, detection dogs, therapy dogs, Canine Buddies....the list is endless! Recently a comment was made to me that the work I do as a puppy raiser is not really worth much. The individual seemed to think that Guide Dogs being "dragged through crowded restaurants and movie theaters" were not "real" working dogs and really had no positive impact. I have also encountered people who think that their working dog (not service dog) have more rights and privileges for public access because they have 'fun' together. I am at a loss for words: Guide Dogs not having fun? Watch any of the training videos and you will see their tails going a mile a minute: they LOVE their jobs! Although I know that this person is very ill-informed, I mean LOOK at all the stuff our dogs go on to do, I have been trying to find a way to educate people on the impact Guide Dogs and other service dogs have on their new partners' lives.

Often when people see our pups and working guides in public, they are not actually realizing what these dogs DO, the impact they make. They are not just a dog being taken into public for the fun of it, they are dogs changing lives and keeping their partners safe every single day. How do you share the impact your dog makes in your own, or someone else's, life?

Phase 6

2010-01-08T08:18:00.002-07:00

Millie moved to phase 6 this week! She is doing about a phase a week since she skipped phase 4. I am getting more excited with each passing week, and cannot wait to see what she chooses to do for her career.

Phase #6

Guidework routes in difficult and challenging work environments (heavy pedestrian and vehicle traffic areas, wide crossings, hectic atmospheres, etc.)
Introduction to sidewalkless areas and rounded curbs
Continued work in malls, stores and buildings, with increasing exposure to varying sights, sounds and smells
Lessons in advanced guidework skills, such as moving turns
Introduction to "intelligent disobedience" (dogs learn to refuse to obey a command if it is unsafe to execute)
Advanced obedience training

Thoughts on OT Service Dogs

2010-01-04T13:27:00.005-07:00

The other day Mitch had a very thought provoking post. As someone who has dealt with both the good and bad aspects for owner training service dogs, here are my thoughts. I think that owner training should be allowed and that there should continue to be no national certification for service dogs. Why? Because the logistical nightmare of regulating service dogs, their training, vet work, follow up, re-certs, and corresponding cross-checking of medical information for the disabled partners is a huge undertaking that I do not think the government is prepared to do. I think it would lead to discrimination and the loss of needed support that service dogs provide if such a program were in place (long waiting, most likely fees involved, ect).

Owner training also allows for individual preferences. Most programs use larger retriever type dog breeds, and while I am a huge fan, not everyone is. What if someone needs a dog that does not shed? How about a small breed dog? What if they have a dog already with the proper temperament for service work? Many people who train their own service dogs also say they have a better understanding of their disability. Some programs (though not all) charge a fee for their dogs. Sometimes people are not able to leave their work or home to train with their new dog. There is also a wait period, sometimes years, to obtain a dog from a program.

I have meet three owner trained dogs in my town. The first was a wonderful cocker spaniel who started out as just a pet. After her owner was in an accident and started having seizures, they dog started alerting to them. The owner got support from her medical team, went through professional training, and now has a dog that helps to keep her safe. Now, there are NO organizations that can train seizure ALERT dogs. They can train dogs to respond to a seizure, but unlike diabetic alert dogs the mechanism for what the dog is actually alerting to is not known and cannot be trained for. This means for someone with seizures to have a seizure alert dog they would have to find a dog with the alert ability.

The next dog I met was a little papillion who assisted a woman in a wheel chair. This woman could have certainly gone through a program, but decided she wanted a small breed dog as they are less expensive to care for and generally have a longer working life. Since she was in a power chair and did not need help pulling her wheelchair, this woman mainly had the dog trained to retrieve dropped items. While only one task, it encompassed many aspects of her life and allowed her to be very independent. Both of these dogs were encountered in public settings and had FANTASTIC manners.

Now the last dog I encountered was mentioned in this post and actually attacked Millie since then. Of the three dogs I have mentioned, this was also the only 'typical' breed: a golden retriever. Luckily Millie was not bitten and was fine, but it just went to show how the dog was unfit for service work and the handler was completely unable to control her dog. The dog was also worked through the advanced stages of cancer, which I think is morally reprehensible on the handler's part. That dog has since passed away and I am very thankful to not have to worry about unleashed, aggressive, and out-of-control service dogs.

What I think would have been high effective in this case would to have been actual enforcement of laws already in place for those who fake service dogs. Would it still really be worth it for people if they knew they could face up to 6 months in jail and/or a $1000 fine? Some states have even higher punishments. The problem is that these are rarely enforced! Even when I contacted animal control and the police they did not know these punishments existed and even the laws regarding access in the first place. In the ADA business brief store owners and gatekeepers are told they can exclude ANY dog, even a service dog, if it is out of control or poses a direct threat to the health or safety of others.

The best thing we can do to help cut down on fake service dogs is to help local businesses understand their rights regarding service dogs and to always be excellent representatives with our pups in training or working dogs.

Fun in the Snow

2009-12-30T11:21:00.012-07:00

A morning pack walk with some of the Innsbruck dogs. We are having a pretty good storm move through the area, so some of the pictures are a little fuzzy due to all the snow!

Flying Through

2009-12-24T07:14:00.002-07:00

Who needs phase 4 anyway? Millie is flying through training and is already to phase 5 this week! I am sure she just wanted to get all her studying done so she could have a blast over the holidays.

Here are the things she has worked on this week:

Phase #4

Progression of guidework training: more difficult sidewalks in busier sections of downtown areas
Training on more complex street crossings and curbs
Obstacle clearance initiated by the dogs; they begin to guide their mobility instructors through the campus obstacle course
Preliminary obedience testing and evaluation of the dogs' reactions to head collars

Phase #5

Preliminary guidework testing with the mobility instructor under blindfold
Complete veterinary history review
More challenging guidework training environments (pedestrian traffic, stairs, different flooring surfaces, etc.)

I am off today and plan on taking some christmas pictures of the pups, so stay tuned for a holiday update. Wishing a very happy holiday to all the pups and their people!

Phase 3!!

2009-12-17T18:01:00.003-07:00

Well I have gotten off-track on posting every day, but of course I had to update about my Millie girl. She is in phase 3 this week, moving right along with her training. Two of her littermates are in phase 7 already, and one brother has been dropped for medical reasons. I am loving watching her go!

Phase #3
Guidework training in quiet residential areas
Frequent rides in the training vans
Introduction to more advanced guidework commands and responses ("Right," "Left," and "Over Here,"); continued training on commands learned in Phase #2
Introduction of curbs and street crossings
Progressive obstacle course training on campus
Continued obedience training
Mall exposure walks
Dog social sessions
Neutering/spaying for those dogs dropped from the breeder-watch list

Week of dogs and cats comes to an end.

2009-12-11T21:29:00.002-07:00

Well tomorrow morning my parents return and I am back to just my three puppies! It has been a little exhausting running the house and caring for all the animals, but it has been fun. The last of the cleaning is done and I have set my alarm to pick them up early in the morning at the airport. I will be there, coats in hand, to welcome them back to land of the frozen.

Phase 2

2009-12-10T19:23:00.001-07:00

Millie is phase 2 this week!

From the Guide Dogs Website:

Preliminary obedience training
Exposure to distractions (toys, food, other dogs, cats, etc.)
First on-campus workouts with a harness
Introduction to the BEST program training techniques (including treadmill sessions)
Sessions to teach guidework-specific commands (such as "Forward," "Halt," "Hopp Up" and "Steady") and the desired responses to the commands
On leash introduction to the campus obstacle course

The Cat Who Opens Doors

2009-12-10T07:59:00.003-07:00

Milo, one of the cats, is finding different ways to amuse himself now that it is much too cold to go outside. Instead of just playing with a toy or hunting mice in the garage, Milo has decided to make it his mission to open any closed door in the house. Taking a shower, why not have the cat come too? Sleeping peacefully at 3am? Not once weird banging sounds and a slowly opening door wake you up. Wanting to keep the cold air OUT of the house? Milo will help (read not) by leaving the garage door open.

So far the only doors he has not been able to open have been the front door and the door where I put masking tap on the handle to keep it from moving. He is one clever boy, and Marley has taken to following him around. Once Milo gets the handle to move and the latch to release Marley will shove his face into the crack and push open the door. This would be how Marley was able to help himself to many treats out in the garage.

They make one naughty duo. Anyone else have pets that work together as partners in crime?

Too Cute Tuesday

2009-12-08T19:20:00.003-07:00

Marley has to be one of my favorite subjects for photography. I am always taking pictures of him. He is just so different and unique in every picture (though I could say that about all my dogs): his coloring just works in so many different light/background settings. This is a picture from our morning romp. It was short since it is so cold even Marley was ready to go back inside after 20 min.

Also, are my alt tags still working? Are there ever ones that don't? The way that I put them in is different for PCs and Macs. Just want to make sure everything is up to speed. Thanks!

Cold day

2009-12-07T18:48:00.003-07:00

Today was sooo cold! With my parents out of town it falls on me to shovel the driveway. So around 11 am today I went out to clear the snow. I had hoped it would warm up, but no such luck. I spent 45min shoveling snow while Marley and Hugo did their very best to knock the walls of snow back into the area I had just cleared. They ran and dug and jumped and wiggled their way through all of the fresh snow.

I had thought about walking Rafferty around the PCMR base area....but in the end I chickened out because of the cold. Instead my sister and I went to see New Moon. I took Rafferty along since he did so well at The Invention of Lying (sorry about that Mimi!) yesterday. We got there a little bit late and had to go into the theater right as the movie started. Since I have been having such trouble with my night vision I had to feel my way along...making the going a little rough for Rafferty. But once we sat down everything went smoothly. I had to laugh watching him...once the wolves came into the movie he perked up and actually watched through the space between the seats! It was so cute. He didn't make any noise, but rather just watched the big dogs on screen (he was actually tracking, so he had to have been seeing them run!). We left the theater and he was a great pup ignoring all the spilled popcorn.

I love this pup and can't wait to see the fun things we will do!

Rafferty's 1st Movie

2009-12-06T21:38:00.001-07:00

Rafferty did FANTASTIC at his first movie today. I can't wait to see what he can do as he grows up: this pup is amazing!!!

Skiing Tomorrow!

2009-12-05T22:46:00.004-07:00

Really, the title says it all. And more snow is on the way, with a big storm due to hit tomorrow night (sadly after I have already skied). Can't wait for snow and skiing, and some epic powder days. Even the dogs are ready for some fresh snow.

A House Full...

2009-12-04T22:19:00.006-07:00

So I am house sitting for my parents this week while they enjoy lovely warm weather and I am stuck here enjoying super cold temps with no snow. This also puts me in the chief role of dog wrangler and cat tamer at the house. With my dogs it makes for 6 dogs and 3 cats enjoying the high life this week. We have everything ranging from Missy and Sparky, (a pair of 14.5 year old Dachshunds) to Gizmo the half Persian cat (his mom looked normal, have to say dad was a Persian) to Rafferty the rambunctious lab puppy. Milo the exploring cat (who still wants to go outside even though it is approaching zero, and Elise the recluse make up the rest of the feline pard.

Marley and Hugo are the resident 'big-dog' contingent. And Dante brings up the rear in size, but not in fight (he steals the big dogs toys).

And while some would love to party when mom and dad are away it just doesn't happen when 9 wonderful animals are looking to you for their every single need. Here is to playing dog (and cat) mom for the next week!

Phase 1

2009-12-03T15:38:00.003-07:00

Millie is in Phase 1! I am so excited to finally see one of my pups make it to the phase report. Since Sterling was cc'd while still with me, Millie is the first to go back to campus. I can't wait to watch her progress. Here is a description of Phase 1 from the Guide Dogs website. Some of these things she may have already done since she has been on campus for 6 weeks already.

Phase #1
Pre-training physical exam
Neutering/spaying (with the exception of potential breeding stock dogs who are under evaluation at this time)
X-rays
Eye checks
Relaxing walks on campus and play sessions
Introduction to the kennel environment and schedule
General daily care and grooming

Millie

2009-12-02T22:06:00.004-07:00

Here is hoping Millie is on the phase report tomorrow. I am really missing my little girl. I just got back some pictures taken of us together her last day with me. I hope she is having lots of fun still in doggie college, and that it is not all play and no work! Does anyone know if they start getting any workouts before they show up on the phase reports? There are some other dogs that went back the same time as her (including littermates) who have now shown up on the reports. I really want to know how she is doing....I miss this girl so much!

Keep on Rolling

2009-12-01T18:50:00.012-07:00

I have decided to try for a post everyday until the end of the year. I have loved blogging everyday, and it is such a fun way to look back on the past month! With that in mind, here are some pictures from a recent outing with ALL the dogs. Enjoy!

Final November Post

2009-11-30T20:47:00.004-07:00

I made it! Posted all month. Thanks for following along. I'll post a bunch of pictures and whatnot on Thursday after Rafferty's 4 month shots.

Thank You!

2009-11-29T21:17:00.002-07:00

I just wanted to thank everyone for their comments on my last post! Different perspectives always helps when looking back on decisions made.

Thank you!

Second Guessing...

2009-11-28T12:46:00.004-07:00

I have a long history of second guessing some of the decisions I make. One of the ones on my mind lately has been not to keep Sterling. I didn't because I could not have another dog and still raise, but at the same time I so wish there had been a way to keep him in my life. At the time the placement seemed just about perfect, but after many months I wonder if it would not have been better to have GDB place him so that I would not feel so responsible for his continued care. Now that is not to say he is not cared for and loved: of course he is. But my level of ownership seems to differ from others. I want my dog to have a job, some structure, eat great food, and be an integral part of my life. I want a partner, a friend, a confident companion. I understand many people just do not view dogs in that respect, but it is something I am having a hard time accepting. Maybe it is just the holidays....the last two holidays I spent with Sterling: first as a baby puppy, last as a wonderful adult. I know that not every situation is perfect. I am so happy that he is loved and thankful that I get to see him still.

A Family Affair

2009-11-27T14:21:00.005-07:00

Happy Thanksgiving

2009-11-26T21:27:00.001-07:00

Wishing everyone and their pups a VERY happy Thanksgiving! Now I am off to bed to enjoy my food-induced coma. Good luck if you decide to brave the crowds tomorrow!

Wordless Wednesday

2009-11-25T08:13:00.004-07:00

Skiing!

2009-11-24T21:18:00.002-07:00

I am going to buy my pass tomorrow. So excited!!! A total of 4 runs are going to be open...but it is skiing!!!

First Big Snow!

2009-11-23T14:15:00.006-07:00

POWDER!

2009-11-22T23:45:00.001-07:00

For Tom's first day back at work he will have some fresh pow'! Lucky guy, since I don't have my pass yet and can't ski. Can't wait for the first day of the year...maybe on Thursday....

First Day of the Season

2009-11-21T19:19:00.004-07:00

Park City Mountain Resort opened today. Many people descended and payed $50 a ticket to ski one run of man made snow with everyone else. A great success was declared.

I worked. Hopefully some backcountry skiing tomorrow!

Millie Agility

2009-11-20T22:43:00.004-07:00

Had to do the title since it rhymed!

My baby girl has still not shown up on the phase reports. I guess she is too busy partying her first semester to worry about study time. Keep on rockin' Millie! Maybe next week....

Happy 9 Months

2009-11-19T22:39:00.004-07:00

Wishing a Happy 9 month day to Paris (well officially it will start at midnight). Keep having fun!

Two years and two days

2009-11-18T23:29:00.002-07:00

Since I brought Sterling home. Love you little man.

Changing Lives

2009-11-17T19:26:00.003-07:00

One of my really awesome volunteers returned from a trip today. She was so excited to tel me about a young man they had met during their trip. He was a soldier stationed in Iraq. There was an IED that was used on the vehicle he was driving, and resulted in the loss of both of his legs. He had to be in a hospital for many months and then had a slow adjustment to life in a wheelchair. One of the things he learned about during his rehabilitation were service dogs.

Once ready he applied for a dog from CCI. They have been together 6 months and he said that the dog has completely changed his life. Going out again, meeting people again, being independent: all these things he credited his service dog with helping him.

What amazing dogs: what an amazing difference they can make in our lives.

Dog Walking

2009-11-16T22:48:00.003-07:00

Now that winter is here, there are some things that have to happen before the dogs and I can go on a walk. First, I am down to just two dogs who will walk with me: Marley (who will go anywhere) and Rafferty (who will go anywhere Marley goes). Next, there are several preparations I undertake before snapping on the leashes and walking out the door.

It is COLD! That means warm shoes that have waterproofing. Walking along with two energetic dogs and having wet feet is NOT fun. My personal choice are Keens or Merles. I love them, they have good traction, and both brands have boots with good insulation! Perfect for when you are standing in snow at the dog park for 30 min.

Puppies! Since I usually have a puppy to deal with on my walks, I need gloves that have traction and warmth. Puppies pull, try to eat things off the ground, and will randomly spaz out doing labby loops. Without good gloves you either have no traction, and hence no control, or you have very cold fingers that can't feel anything (and then have no control).

Pants! For warmer days I wear insulated track pants. For cold days I bring out the Carharts with a base-layer underneath. For insane, why-am-I-out-in-this weather, bring on the ski pants!

Jacket! For really cold days I wear a down-jacket. Otherwise a soft-shell or fleece is sufficient. If it is a blizzard outside, then out comes the hard-shell with hood. Usually I don't need goggles as well (unless I have to blow the snow out of the driveway at 4 am.).

And of course...a hat. Really any hat will do. They keep all that hot air from escaping from your head. But then you have hat hair. And so I usually have two braids that make me look like I am twelve, but is anyone else even out in this crazy weather anyway?

Of course, I am not the only one who has things to wear for walks. Marley has an orange vest for visibility, and a flashing beacon for late night walks. Rafferty has a really sweet leash (read one I try to get him not to chew on).

Rafferty walks next to me and we practice not eating things, not pulling, no please-drop-that-right-now, don't pull, really-I-meant-it-last-time, don't walk under my feet, really-don't-eat-that, and not pulling. Marley runs along without a leash. We practice lots of recalls. I actually had someone say they were "impressed" by my dog's training. Well I would hope after 14 months of continuous training there would be some results!

We walk for as long as Rafferty can go, and then head home. I then take off Marley's vest, Rafferty's leash, my boots, gloves, coat, and hat. We relax and then repeat next time!

Snuggled up.

2009-11-15T21:53:00.002-07:00

When the weather gets cold it is time to snuggle under the covers.

Big Boy

2009-11-14T23:04:00.005-07:00

Rafferty is now 27.2 lbs at 13 weeks. Luckily he has now figured out the stairs, both up and down, because my back was not going to take much more of that. He is doing fantastic with his house training and is such a fun puppy to have around. He has started going on VERY short outings. He went in while I got a smoothie, and also joined me at Starbucks while I picked up a coffee. Both times he was very good, and made me realize he has almost out-grown the small vest!

He loved the snow this morning. On our walk he would take in a big snort of snow, pause for a moment, and then bolt to the end of his leash trying to do labby scoots. Now that it is cold he has taken to snuggling up next to Marley (much to his annoyance :) and sleeping by his side. He continues to be a quiet puppy and has learned 'kennel' and 'come'. Can't wait to see how much he gains next week. He was 21lbs when I brought him home, 24 last week, and 27.2 this week.

Sophie

2009-11-13T23:05:00.009-07:00

Sophie was a sweet, sassy, and so cute Dachshund I had for two months in the spring of 2007. Dante was just one year old, Hugo was still a pup, and we were still "fostering" Marley trying to decide what we were going to do. Sophie was a puppy I had found who needed a home as her military family was being re-located. She was 10 weeks when she came home, and she and Dante were inseperable. The plan was for her to hang with me for about 2 months, and then fly out to California to live with my Aunt and Uncle, who had just lost one of their dogs.

She enjoyed many adventures with them and was a regular running buddy. She loved going for car rides, hikes, and riding in her special basket on the mountain bikes.

Last night she died in a tragic and freak accident. Her spirit will live on in the hearts of those who love her. Sophie, you will be missed.

Old Dogs

2009-11-12T20:43:00.003-07:00

Dogs remind us of our own mortality. We see them go from baby puppy, running, playing, and learning about life to old dogs loving nothing more than a soft place to sleep and to be by our sides in just over a decade. It is so hard to watch them age, and yet I don't know that I would miss it for the world. Sure, they may start to look a little different, maybe not be able to go on long walks anymore, but they continue to look to us for love and affection.

When the end comes, we owe it to them to be there, by their side. Letting them die when it is their time, not prolonging pain and suffering because we cannot bear to let go. It is so hard to say goodbye and yet it teaches us so much. Below is a picture of Sparky, one of our 14 year dachshunds. I have grown up with them and hope to have many more years with Missy and Sparky, but when their time comes I will try to remember the happy times and focus on how blessed I was to have them in my life. Each new companion, whether it is a dog or cat or other animal, leaves a special mark in our hearts. If we are too afraid of loosing them to take that first step, then we miss out on the wonderful moments that make each companion unique.

Siblings

2009-11-11T20:06:00.005-07:00

Rafferty came from a nice big litter. There were 4 black pups, and 5 yellow pups. He has 5 brothers and 3 sisters. Here are some pictures of two of his brothers!

This is Rivet, who was a whole 2.5 lbs bigger at 11 weeks than Rafferty. And I thought he was big!

Riley appears to be one of the smaller pups, and is a black lab like Rafferty.
So far I have found the names for two of his sisters, Roxanne, a yellow lab (who is being raised by Sarita's raisers), and Reva, also a yellow lab. Rockford and Rivet are yellow lab brothers. Riley is a black lab.

So I am missing information on one sister and two brothers. If you have any info on their whereabouts please let me know!

More snow is on the way!

2009-11-10T21:51:00.001-07:00

Millie News!

2009-11-09T13:27:00.003-07:00

Millie is now going into training. She went back for breeder evals, but they have decided to not have her as part of the breeding program and will spay her before she joins the next training string. No reason yet as for why: they did say they really liked her! I know two other siblings are also under consideration for breeding, so maybe they thought she would be better as a guide. Now I will be able to follow her progress on the phase report! She should show up in the next week or two (though she will be Millicent on the report...so don't look for Millie!).

Go Millie Go!

Dog Books

2009-11-08T22:20:00.004-07:00

There is nothing better (in my mind anyway) that reading a great book that has a dog as a character. There are several I have read over the years, but here are a few that really stand out.

1. Watchers by Dean Koontz. GREAT book, features a golden retriever. One of my all time favorites.

2. Merle's Door by Ted Kerasote. I love this book!

3. Marley and Me by John Grogan

4. Bones would Rain from the Sky by Suzanne Clothier

5. Chicken Soup for the Dog Lover's Soul

6. Old Yeller - Thanks Cabana!

7. Where the Red Fern Grows- my favorite childhood book!

8. My Dog Skip

These are all the ones that come to mind at the moment. Check them out, they are great books!

Procrastination and Puppies

2009-11-07T23:08:00.003-07:00

Procrastination and puppies seem to be the common theme for all my blog posts this month. I find myself always posting late at night, just sneaking in under that midnight deadline. I am not sure why I do this...I always mean to post sooner. But then I get caught up playing with the dogs, or watching House, or talking with my family...and I just wait until the last minute.

Anyone else a procrastinator? I think it really makes things more exciting. The panic that sets in when you have a 20 page research paper due the next day has makes roller coaster rides seem tame by comparison. I think maybe it is that some people work better under pressure? I seem to, though I do not really enjoy it. Things come together in a way that they just don't during non stress times. Hmmm...now I think I am just rambling and trying to justify my procrastination.

Something I can't procrastinate on though is raising puppies. If you procrastinate on house training sooner or later you have a 6 month old dog who messes really are a BIG problem now. Can't train sit, down, stay, come, and loose leash walking in a day. Really not even in a month. not for commands that can be followed reliably in all sorts of situations. No, we have to start day by day to build up to those wonderful dogs we send back. I guess that is one of the really cool things raising has taught me: the wonderful feeling you get from small triumphs built up each day. The little things like learning to sit before dinner. Walking down the stairs. Or simply knowing what their name is. All the little things that hopefully will build to a tearful but oh-so wonderful passing of the leash at graduation. Something I cannot wait to experience.

Ok, now my battery is about to die, so that is my ramble for the night. What is something that raising meant to you?

A little bit of the wild...

2009-11-06T20:11:00.005-07:00

Sometimes when looking at different dogs, I have a really hard time believing they were once descended from wolves. Especially with my little dog, Dante. He is a chihuahua, and doesn't really make it on the blog much. It is not because I don't love him...its more because he is just so easy and good there is really never much to say. But he is my first dog, and one of my heart dogs. Marley is my other heart dog for a different reason: anyone meeting Marley would never describe him as an "easy" dog. But I think that is part of why I love him so much: he has taught me so much about dog training, dog body language, and dogs in general. He is the one who introduced me to big dogs (and Guide Dogs after that), so I owe alot to him.

But I digress. Back to dogs and wolf ancestry. Dante is about as far from wild as you can get: always has a soft bed to sleep in, inside most of the day, and just a pampered pooch. Last night as I was reading in bed, he displayed a very "wild" type of behavior. He buried his food! Now let me explain...since Dante and Marley love to sleep on my bed, I have some blankets there for them to snuggle in. When Dante got his treat last night, he started to bury the treat in the blankets. He would dig the blankets up, put the treat under them, and then use his muzzle to push the the blankets back over his stash. Then he would look at me, find his treat, dig it back up, and repeat the process.

Such a funny sight to watch a little Chihuahua bury his "kill" in soft blankets on a big bed.

Puppy Pictures...the process.

2009-11-05T22:14:00.005-07:00

Well, Rafferty did not actually get to trick or treat this year, or really participate at all. But he did get to have some cute pictures taken in his halloween costume (and yes, it is the same one Uncle Sterling wore last year). I also got some pictures of him in his puppy coat. He is so funny about having his picture taken. At first he wants to get up, and I have him sit, and then he pops up again, I have him sit, and so on, until finally he sits and looks pathetic while i take his picture. I think it is the big ears and puppy dog eyes that makes him look so bored with the whole thing. Anyone have any tips for taking pictures with baby puppies?

Lost Pets

2009-11-04T21:11:00.003-07:00

Recently GDB posted about a lost puppy. In my local paper today there was a letter to the editor about a lost cat that ended up at the shelter and was adopted out. Every day at work I have to let someone know where to look if their dog or cat has gone missing.

Maybe it seems like common sense to me, but one should always start by looking at their local shelter if they have lost their dog or cat. I am sure GDB has notified all the local shelters about missing puppy Gannon, but why is it that pet owners do not know to do the same? Is it a lack of education? Should there be more information about resources for people with lost pets?

Here is my own checklist of what I would do in the event one of my dogs goes missing:

1. Call local shelters. Usually all shelters in my county and neighboring counties. People can be weird about where they take your pet.

2. Contact local Humane Society. Many people don't know about county/city shelters and will take the dog to the Humane Society instead: even if that is a county or two away.

3. Call local vet clinics. Let them know to watch for people who may be bringing in that nice stray they found because they may want to keep it.

4. Contact local radio station (ours will run lost pet ads for free!).

5. Start making fliers with a current picture, vital stats, that they have a microchip (but not the actual number, save that for shelter personnel only) and my contact info (multiple phone #s). Now I would take them to all the places I have contacted initially so there is a visual reminder of the dog I am looking for.

6. Put up fliers around area the dog was last seen. Also put them up on community boards at pet stores, grocery stores, churches, parks, and schools.

7. Post on Internet bulletins and community forums.

8. Keep physically going to the shelters and checking for myself. You never know when your description of a Pyrenees mix looks like a Samoyed to someone else.

9. Keep hoping and searching: there have been cases of some dogs being returned to their owners after months of separation.

Rafferty Picture Post!

2009-11-03T22:07:00.015-07:00

Here are some pictures from the day I got Rafferty at the puppy truck all the way to today (wow, 6 days already!). He continues to be a very sweet and fun puppy, though I am beginning to doubt he is a lab: his lack of interest in food is so unusual for a lab! He had his first puppy meeting last night, and had a good time meeting the other two puppies in our club. We now have one of each: a yellow lab (Jackson), a golden retriever (Elvis), and a black lab (Rafferty). Enjoy the pictures!

[Huge puppy Rafferty being carried off the truck by a GDB driver. ]
[Me grinning as I hold Rafferty in front of the puppy truck]
[While I kneel down, Rafferty stand on back legs and places his paws on my chest]
[Rafferty standing next to a small black lab puppy with a small yellow lab puppy in back]
[Golden retriever puppy greats 6 month old black lab puppy by holding paw up to older puppy's face]
[Rafferty, black lab, and Marley, brindle retriever mix, stand in front of large rocks in the snow]
[Rafferty sticks his nose in the snow and has snow up to his eyes]
[Rafferty looking at big brother Marley in front of rocks while standing in snow]
[I hold Rafferty, wrapped in a towel, after his first bath]
[Rafferty sits in front of fireplace wearing his puppy coat. Guide Dog Puppy is visible on the front of the coat]
[Rafferty yawns while having picture taken]
[Rafferty sticking tongue out while wearing puppy coat]
[Rafferty looks at camera with the sun shining on his face sitting on the grass]

Missing GDB Puppy!

2009-11-02T12:11:00.001-07:00

Here is a link to the story on the GDB Blog page. Gannon is a 3 month old male black lab missing in Lodi California. If you are in California, or know people near this town, please let them know about this missing pup.

I hope he is found quickly and is safe upon return.

Under the Wire...

2009-11-01T23:23:00.003-07:00

I just found out about National Blog Posting Month (NaBloPoMo) from R who found out about it from L^2! Woo, got that? I am going to take the challenge, and start with a very late post tonight! Now that I am back down to "sane" dog levels (as my mom calls it) I will hopefully have much more time to post daily. Some will be pictures, some will be just my musings, and some will be both. Tomorrow we are having wireless Internet installed and I will no longer be limited to random picture posts: now I can post straight from my laptop.

Rafferty has been great this weekend. I lucked out and have had the last two days off. Saturday we went tailgating and he was definitely a show-stopper. Tom was carrying him, and it is a very good thing I am not jealous: there were random girls running up to Tom every 5 steps! Hint to any single guys out there: get a cute puppy and walk around! Better if they are a cute puppy with a guide dog coat on! That night he snoozed in his crate after his big day while we saw Paranormal Activity. I was sooo glad to have Marley with me after that movie.

Today we mostly hung out at home. Started on food-induced-recall and played lots of tug. No accidents at all today: this boy is catching on fast!

That is all for my late night, under the wire post!

Introducing the biggest boy...

2009-10-29T17:49:00.004-06:00

On the truck! Meet Rafferty, my 4th guide dog puppy. He is a male black lab, born 8.14.2009, to Samuel/Sarita. He weighs 21 lbs and is the cause of my arms aching from holding him so much today! So worth it though, cause I know it is not going to last! He is cute, calm, and confident. He already thinks he can run with the big dogs! So far he has been a great little boy, and I feel so lucky to have the chance to be his raiser. Oh, and he was the big boy on the right from the puppy truck picture : )

Puppy Truck Heading Our Way!

2009-10-29T08:52:00.004-06:00

Here is a picture that was posted on the GDB Facebook page yesterday. For all of you without Facebook, here is a look at some of the puppies heading to UT and CO today. All of our CFR's helped load up the puppy truck. Go Barb! That black pup on the right is one big boy!! Just a few hours until one of these guys is in my arms!

Just one day to go!

2009-10-28T09:31:00.005-06:00

Tomorrow I get my new puppy! We have had snow the past two days and I am looking forward to a stop in the snow for housetraining. My new puppy is older, so that should help in that department. "R" boy, or Roomba as I have taken to calling him, will actually turn 11 weeks on Friday. He will be the second oldest puppy I have gotten, with Millie being the oldest since she was 6 months when she was transfered to me. But he will be the oldest puppy I have gotten off the puppy truck. Sterling was 9 1/2 weeks, and Paris was just barley 8 weeks when I got her. Hopefully my arms will hold out for pictures tomorrow!

"Roomba" is a Samuel/Sarita puppy, and since Sarita was a litter mate to Sterling, that makes him Sterling's nephew! I can't wait for this special little (or big!) boy to make his way into my life tomorrow.

Also, I am trying to make my blog more friendly to those with screen readers. Does anyone have any suggestions? Like how do you add descriptions to your pictures? Thanks for any advice!

Marley, Millie, & Dante Fall Pictures

2009-10-25T21:24:00.018-06:00

I took Millie and Marley up City Creek Canyon for some fall photos. Here are the results!

I almost want to submit this one for Calender consideration....

Goodbye Baby Girl...

2009-10-23T05:33:00.003-06:00

We are getting ready to leave for the truck. I have checked off the last of the things to do, made sure I have "Fun Things About My Puppy" and a picture cd attached. A cozy blanket is packed for her to snuggle in. Last breakfast has been eaten. She is ready, and I guess so am I.

Good luck Millie, I know you will do amazing things, but I am going to miss your incredible spirit.

24 things for 24 hours left....

2009-10-22T07:30:00.003-06:00

With less than a day remaining with Millie, I thought I would do a post just about her.

These are 24 things that make Millie a special and unique girl.

1. Millie is always happy. This girl never misses a beat.

2. She LOVES her Nylabones. I have a big basket that she will go over to and pull out her chosen bone.

3. She has a great loose leash walk!

4. She loves to play with other dogs.

5. If I am sitting on the floor she will come and sit in my lap.

6. She will lick milk off of baby kittens.

7. When she runs she looks like she is frolicking

8. She LOVES dinner. She starts drooling the min the bowl comes out.

9. Millie is very sensitive to moods and will act silly to make you feel better.

10. She is great with kids.

11. She loves playing with her Jolly Ball, though I swear she is going to knock someone out one of these days.

12. I only have to look at her for her to come for a pet.

13. She is a pretty neat water drinker.

14. She will swim!

15. She LOVES Kongs!!! She will drop it and watch it bounce. Even down the stairs.

16. She runs around like a crazy dog after a bath.

17. She prances when she knows she is going for a walk.

18. She likes to lick my hand, or fingers, to get my attention.

19. She is so smart.

20. She is so loving.

21. She loves to 'work'.

22. She has never had an accident in a building.

23. She is a joy to work with.

24. I will miss her and her wonderful personality. I know this girl is going to do great things.

Puppy Delay...

2009-10-12T22:14:00.003-06:00

Well it looks like I am going to have a break, albeit a short one, between sending Millie off to college and getting my new little pup. I had originally thought I would be getting my pup on the 29th and sending Millie back on the 31st, giving me two fun days of overlap. Instead Millie will be leaving (most likely in a training van) on the 21st, and my new pup will arrive on the 29th as the puppy truck makes its way to Colorado.

That will make for one sad send off as no one will be getting a cute little pup to cry into. I will probably end up watching another pup while I wait for my own to arrive.

No word yet on what I am getting though!

Fall Photos...

2009-10-11T19:46:00.021-06:00

Yesterday we went on a walk near a historic barn. There also happened to be some very large trees that Marley found irresistible. He hopped right up and started climbing away...he never ceases to amaze (and sometimes worry) me with his antics. We also got some good shots of Millie and Hugo.

Marley sitting on the tree, so pretty with the sun lighting up his face!

Look how high I am Mom!

Exploring further out on the tree.

Climbing up the tree.

Me and Millie, both fixated on something. I think this was right before she jumped off the tree.

Millie, bored with picture taking.

Looking pretty in front of a fence.

Looking irritated in front of the same fence!

The trio. And of course Hugo has to have his Frisbee.

Me and Millie.

Marley and Me (haha, I knew I would write that at some point).

Pretty boy Hugo.

Recall: but not defective!

2009-10-08T20:55:00.002-06:00

Recently I posted about Millie returning for recall on my Facebook page. Many of my friends, unfamiliar with GDB terminology, immediately responded, asking what was wrong, and just what kind of a recall affects a dog anyway....

I had to laugh as I corrected everyone on my wording, but it did make me think. Usually we here the word recall in other aspects of life, and it is always something defective, or bad. Like my Mom's Prius floor mats which had a recall this past week.

But with the guide dog pups, it is something good! It means you have done what you are supposed to do, done all you can to prepare them for college (formal training), and are now ready to say good bye. Well, maybe no one is ever READY to say good bye, but we know it is coming and can now look forward to watching our pups progress through formal training and whatever career they choose to undertake.

Millie will be my first dog to actually return for formal training. I did have to say goodbye to Sterling, but knowing he had chosen the pampered pet life. I just found out today that Millie's recall date is now the 21st of this month, instead of the 31st. That leaves me with just under two weeks to pack in final outings, lots of play and snuggle time, and lots and lots of pictures.

For lack of any real news....

2009-10-05T21:11:00.018-06:00

Here is a cute picture post! I recently uploaded my little camera and had a whole bunch of pictures from this summer just waiting to be seen. From baby Paris pictures, outdoor adventures, and traffic walks to silly statue encounters, here is a sampling from my forgotten camera.

If you made it this far, good for you! Hopefully I will have some puppy news to report this week!

Goodbye and Good Luck

2009-09-24T17:39:00.014-06:00

Paris went to her new raiser Megan today. She got to sleep loose in my room last night, run and play with the other dogs this morning, and hang out with me this afternoon before heading off for her new adventure. I know she will be a great dog, and will be a great guide one day if that is what she chooses to be!

Paris at full speed...her favorite one : )

Playing with Marley one last time.

Beautiful pup.

Paris just over 7 months old (7 months, 4 days.)

Final goodbyes...

I love this one! I think she was getting bored, things weren't happening fast enough for her. You can even see the black spot on her tongue.

Paris, puppy in training.

Happy, happy girl.

Looking ahead for new friends, fun, and excitement to come!

Good Luck Paris! I love you and look forward to following your adventures before you head back to formal training. Be a good girl, and don't steal Megan's slippers!

Awesome News!!!

2009-09-18T07:59:00.002-06:00

Well our evals were on Tues, and we met with the Salt Lake and Utah county clubs. There were about 20 puppies there, from just having gotten vests, to pups going back next week for training. At first different people had their pups do 'go to bed', while we waited for everyone to arrive. I did have Paris try, and though it was a VERY distracting environment she did ok. Not awesome (though it wasn't her usual mat) but ok. Next we walked through Cabala's. In there we went through the aquarium, walked through the different animal displays, and practiced elevator rides and walking next to open railings.

Millie was fantastic the entire time, hardly ever pulling on the leash, and showing no reactions to any of the different things we saw. Tom handled her throughout the eval. Paris did really well for her age, and other than pulling some to go to other dogs, and trying to check out a couple things on the floor, she was great!

Afterwards our CFR asked us the best things about our pups, and the worst things about our pups. For Millie, it was her willingness to do any ting, and go anywhere that is her best trait. Her house behaviors still need a little fine tuning, but other than that she is one AWESOME pup. Paris is so smart, and she is so smart! Those were both good and bad as I try not to let her outsmart me!! But it makes for fun training and one awesome pup.

Once people started to leave my CFR asked me if I would be finishing Paris's training. I told her I would do whatever worked best for GDB. If someone needed an older pup I would transfer her (as I had started her with that intention), but if not I would love to finish her. My CFR told me there were some raisers who were waiting for transfer pups, and she would let me know the next day.

And so.....Paris is being transferred.....

To a fellow blogger!!! She will meet her new raiser on Thursday. I am going to make this a guessing game until then.

I am so excited to be able to follow along with her progress! Millie is still excepted to go back on the truck at the end of October, which means I will be getting a puppy on that truck. That is all the news I have for now

Belated Birthday Wishes: Sterling!

2009-09-14T09:16:00.005-06:00

HAPPY BIRTHDAY STERLING!

Sterling, my wonderful boy, turned 2 years old last week, on September 10th. I know he is greatly enjoying pet life, and is a wonderful boy for his mom as she finishes her last year of pre-med.

Puppy News, Millie and Paris

2009-09-14T09:06:00.003-06:00

Well, it looks like Paris will be sticking with me. Only 6 of 11 pups went to the HS program, and so Miss Paris will be finishing her time here in PC! Yay, no snow housebreaking!!! We have an eval with our CFR tomorrow night where Paris's progress will be evaluated and Millie will have her final eval before her recall. Paris is completely recovered from her spay surgery and second eye surgery and is doing GREAT! Millie is just fantastic, and I am trying to pack in as many things with her as I can before she goes back.

It has been fun, now that Paris is older and more reliable for public outings, to go everywhere with two pups. I hope it is helping to teach them better control around dog distractions, and more self control in general. We get many more comments on the girls, especially the difference 6 months makes in their calmness and control (though no one believes Paris is only 6 1/2 months!).

Paris is still very vocal and rough when she plays with the other dogs, resulting in lots of time outs. Has anyone had this problem before, and if so, any other suggestions to helping her control and moderate her play behavior?

I will not be getting a puppy on the truck (unless somehow I was offered a golden pup ;) and plan on getting another puppy in the spring. If Millie is pulled as a breeder, I will raise one of her pups when they become available.

Hopefully I will be able to post an update after our eval tomorrow night!

Paris and Millie Update

2009-09-02T09:30:00.003-06:00

Well, I have just 8 weeks left with my wonderful girl. Millie will be heading back to Guide Dogs at the end of October for her breeder evals. I know she will be amazing whatever she decides to do. She has turned into such a fantastic dog who is just a dream and joy to take anywhere!!!

Miss Paris has an eval for the school program in two weeks, but as there are twice the number of starter puppies for the school program as there are kids, it looks like I may be finishing her training. I have told my CFR that if there is another raiser who needs an older transfer dog that I would let her go and start a new pup. Whatever helps GDB out the most : )
If I do finish raising her it will be so nice to not have to house train in snow! She is a great pup who is very enthusiastic to learn new things, though her personality can be a little challenging for some. I think once she matures and focuses her energy into working that she will make a fantastic guide. Part of her problem has been her entropium: she had surgery at just 14 wks the first time, with one eye turning back in as she grew (chance you take when you do surgery on a growing puppy.). This left her with one perfect eye, and one that she would squint and close on a regular basis. This made her uncoordinated and unwilling to do some things such as jump in vehicles and go down stairs. Now that her other eye has been corrected I have already seen a huge improvement in her confidence moving about. She does love to pick things up off the ground and play a little rough with other dogs, but I am working on focusing this energy into more appropriate activities and hopefully shaping behavior that will leave her well prepared for guide work.

If I finish her or had her off to another raiser, I know this little girl will give her whole heart to whatever we ask her to do!

Both pups are off to sitters this weekend as I am heading to MN with my family. Hopefully good reports will come upon my return, though Paris is in a cone and on leash/crate activity only as her spay and eye surgeries continue to heal.

Have a great Labor day weekend!

150th Post and Pictures!

2009-08-26T21:41:00.015-06:00

Here are pictures...enjoy!

Dante hanging out in the sun.

Marley loving the shade and cool ground cover.

Elvis, Jackson, Millie, and Paris at the Fire station.

Jackson, Millie, and Paris on the fire engine.

Jackson, Millie and Paris getting bored with pictures on the fire engine....

Paris by herself.

Hugo, Marley, Sterling, Millie, and Paris. Family Reunion!

Paris, 6 months.

Dante checking out the sights.

Marley loving desert life!

Moab as a storm rolls in

Hugo relaxing after a day on the river.

Here are pictures from various activites over the last month!

News, news, NEWS!

2009-08-25T13:48:00.003-06:00

So, once again, a very long over due post.

I will start by wishing Millie a very happy BIRTHDAY today! She is such a fantastic dog, and I wish I could keep her forever...but our time together is drawing to an end. She will most likely be leaving for her breeder eval at the end of October. I will post more info as it becomes available.

Paris is growing, maturing, and loving life! She turned 6 months last week and is such a fun puppy to work with! I always feel like yelling "incoming" when I ask her to down, as she just throws herself on the ground, looking up eagerly at me. She has her spay surgery and entropium (round 2) surgery this Thurs, so we are trying to pack in as many fun things as possible, as it is 2 weeks of crate time after her surgery. Her evaluation for the school program is Sept 15th, and I will find out whether she goes to a high school student at the end of Sept or stays with me.

I will most likely be getting a puppy on the Sept or Oct truck if both my girls are gone. Details will follow at a later date...

Marley continues to progress well during obedience training. We now go to different places around town in order to socialize the dogs and proof behaviors in different environments.

Dante is getting better about his shyness at work that seemed to come up randomly and now chooses when he wants to go. Otherwise he loves fetch, car rides, and being top dog!

More stories and posts with pictures to come soon (I hope!).

Time for an Update

2009-07-26T23:11:00.015-06:00

I have been a bad blogger and very slow to update on a regular basis! Funny how having 5 dogs, two of them puppies, can keep you so busy. I don't have a yard, so we do ALOT of walking with the dogs. I have had a lot of fun with my girls, Millie and Paris, but I am also ready to just go back to 4 dogs, and only one of them a puppy.

They are both doing very well with their training. Millie still has some house manners issues that we have been working on since she came to me, but her work and behavior in public is fantastic! Paris is such a sweet pup who settles down quickly when we go out in public. She is hyper still in the house, but will ignore food and doesn't ever try to get on furniture.

Tomorrow our entire club is going to a baseball game with all of the pups (Parsons, Millie, Jackson, Paris, and Elvis).

Here are some pictures from weekend adventures over the last month.

Sterling hanging out with his new 'dad' and sis Deso. (Sterling is in the middle).

Marley, my "Wasatch Mountain dog". He blends in so well with the rocks that at times it can be hard to pick him out. Even when he is running through the brush I have a hard time seeing him.

Marley LOVES water. When he can be in the water with one of us it is even better!

Millie showing her patriotic side on the fourth of July. Calender worthy maybe?

Our club did a recent outing at an outdoor market. Here Millie is, less than thrilled at being outside when it is HOT! She was the only black dog and so I tried to keep her in the shade as much as possible.

cc'd Pup Foxboro watches all the going-ons.

Bracken enjoying one of his last outings before heading off for formal training. Unfortunately he was medical cc'd. He may go to Dogs for Diabetics or the Hearing Dog program.

Giant pup Jackson hangs out by a big water bowl.

And then passes out in it!

All my pups patiently wait for their food. And yes, that is drool all over Millie.

And finally...two weeks ago I drove 4 hours to pick up a mamma dog and her 5 pups who were running out of time in a rural shelter. Here is one of her pups enjoying life at their foster home.

Puppy Sitting and the Puppy Truck!

2009-07-10T13:52:00.012-06:00

I have big boy Jackson this weekend. He came on the truck same time as Paris, but is a whooping 20lbs bigger!!! He is 4.5 months and weighs 50lbs. He is like having a little linebacker in the house: he gets tired quickly, doesn't seem to notice pain, and runs into the other dogs. He is a very sweet pup, and I am sure we will all have a fun time this weekend. Me and 4 dogs!

He and Paris came to work with me, and both enjoy hanging out on the big dog bed.
Snoozing away the afternoon is fun after a long morning of non-stop play.

Paris gives up the bed for some cool tile time.

Yesterday my leader got a new puppy. He is a 14 week old Golden Retriever all the way from New Zealand! Guide Dogs got both him and his sister, pictured below. She was on her way to Colorado and her new raising home. Tomorrow my leader will be putting Bracken on the truck to head off to Guide Dogs in CA.

Pretty little girl...she is almost all white!

And introducing.........the puppy who walked off the truck all by himself..........

The pup who can have his own theme song....

ELVIS!

He seems like a very fun pup and a great addition to our club!

Millie and Paris pictures

2009-06-27T08:30:00.008-06:00

Tom with Paris at her first puppy meeting.

Playing with big boy Bracken.

Millie and Paris hanging out.

Millie, Paris, and Sterling! My three pups,

Wait, what is that over there? It is hard to get a new baby to stay for a picture.

Yes, we made her get off, but I could not resist. We were just getting back from an outing, and she got so excited to see Marley she jumped right on top of him!

Belated Graduation Post

2009-06-25T09:01:00.014-06:00

The pictures pretty much speak for themselves! It was amazing and I hope to do it again with a masters degree.

Me getting my diploma (actually it is an empty case, they have to mail the diploma later....hmmm, still waiting on that one.)

Walking off stage with Millie.

Being told how to get back to my seat, LOL!

Celebration time.

My lovely sister.

My grandmother and I.

My parents and I.

Tom and I.

Kisses from a very sweet pup!

The end.

Moab again!

2009-06-18T08:05:00.020-06:00

Last Thursday evening we left for Moab: it was a weekend full of river rafting and good times!

Miss Millie and baby Paris both went to puppy sitters, as river rafting is a GDB pup no-go. They had a great time, with Millie getting a FANTASTIC report! I am so proud of my little girl, she has come such a long way and has matured into such an amazing dog!

Paris got to experience the great backyard at the home of my leader, and really enjoyed playing with our resident big dog, Bracken. She got a pretty good report, but with a couple of things to work on. She also outgrew her small gentle leader in those 5 days!

Moab was awesome! One of our friends is a professional river guide, and has his own raft set-up. This made for fun and pretty low stress outings through some pretty big rapids. We did three trips down the "daily" section of the Colorado river. This has some fun rapids that are all swimable, spaced out enough that there is not really a concern about downstream consquences if you end up in the water. That is not to say safety is still not a huge priority: someone died the day before we got there because they went down the river in a canoe without a lifejacket on. That was a sobering reminder of the importance of lifejackets for everyone: both person and canine!

Marley sporting his awesome lifejacket!

Marley, Hugo and Sterling strut their jackets.

Hugo watching as Tom jumps into the water below.

Sterling hanging out.

The first day Tom, Andrew and I went down the river in the raft with 4 dogs! Marley, my big boy; Hugo, Tom's dog; Deso, Andrew's rescued black lab; and......Sterling! He has been adopted my friend, and so all the dogs joined us on the boat. The first thing we did when we got to the river was to get the dogs out and get their lifejackets on. Marley and Hugo both have nifty Ruff Wear lifejackets....with the handle on the back it makes for a great dog control device! Now if they would just come with a handle all the time....

We did some cliff jumping where the dogs were very intent on getting us back to shore.

Tom jumping.

Any time we jumped out of the boat, the dogs were in after us, ready to pull us back to shore/boat. Marley was really great, he would swim right to me, let me grab his handle, and then start pulling me back to the boat. It took a little longer for Sterling to figure out that I was NOT the boat: he tried to climb on me the first couple of times.

Sterling watches while Deso pulls Andrew to shore.

Deso was a great swimmer!

Our last day in Moab we went down the West Water section of the Colorado river. This is a huge rapid section where experience is a must! The dogs did not join us as the water is too high and fast this time of year. I was very sad to see another group had a dog with them, and did not even have a lifejacket for their dog. Luckily another group on the river carried a spare and loaned it to them, but we were all very concerned about their ability to make it down the river safely.

We went through the narrowest part of the Colorado, at a rapid named "Skull".

This is the "Room of Doom" a recirculating hole that can be dangerous!

Me having a good time!

Marley having fun!

Sterling and Deso, a new pair!