Speedoggie... the blog

Photos from this weekends Agility Grand Opening

2012-01-09T08:23:00.000-08:00

Photos from this weekends Agility Grand Opening at The Green Leaf Pet Resort & Hotel
www.thegreenleafpetresort.com

I hope this link works!

https://picasaweb.google.com/107200228080844173630/SpeedoggieGrandOpeningAtGreenLeafPetResort20120107

New Agility Classes Starting in Millstone NJ

2011-12-20T17:35:00.001-08:00

Agility Class Schedule at Green Leaf Pet Resort & Hotel (Indoor/Heated/Matted)

23 Burnt Tavern Road, Millstone Twp, NJ 08510 • greenleafpetresort.com

The agility training area at The Green Leaf Pet Resort & Hotel 3,800 sq ft (free span) fully matted with Dog Agility Foam Mats (specifically designed for dog agility). This dog sport specific matting is installed over the same stress-free flooring that can be found throughout the entire facility. This adds cushioning and impact resistance as well as increasing the already great traction of this acclaimed agility footing. FMI on the matting visit (www.greatmats.com/products/dogagility.php). Our flooring is cleaned and sanitized every day to insure a healthy working environment for all of our clients. The agility facility boasts brand new Max200 (www.max200.com) agility and training equipment (all rubberized contact equipment). We have indoor, sanitized and climate controlled crating rooms for all dogs enrolled in classes, so there is no need to leave dogs in your vehicle or bring crates to classes if you are enrolled in more than one class, or with more than one dog. The facility also has multiple outdoor grass rings, fully fenced and lighted dedicated to agility, for use during spring, summer and fall. Indoor restroom facilities as well as ample, paved and lighted parking areas make for a comfortable experience for both you and your dog(s) while taking our classes. This agility/training facility is not available for private ring rental of any kind. A 3,000 sq ft indoor aquatic center for exercise, recreation and relaxation, is currently under construction and is expected to be available for guests to enjoy by Mid 2012.

Monday Evenings Group Classes:

HANDLING FOR EXCELLENCE

Work with world class instructors to bring your agility skills to the next level and achieve exceptional results

Instructed by

Chris Ott-Parker

2x World Team Member, National Champion, USA EO Member (with 2 dogs) and Guinness World Record Holder For Dog Weaving

and

Jessica Ajoux

AKC and USDAA Finalist and Podium Winner (with both large and small dogs) and Multiple year USA World Team Tryout Participant

Class Dates: January 9, 16, 23, 30, February 6, 13, 2012

Masters/Advanced Class #1: 6:00pm - 7:30pm

Masters/Advanced Class #2: 7:30pm - 9:00pm

Class Limit (each class): 12 (2 groups of 6)

6 Week Class: $225

Class Description:

HANDLING FOR EXCELLENCE

Nowhere in the country are two instructors with this level of experience and performance success offering a class where participants can work with BOTH instructors in the same class! This extended 90 minute agility class offers the participants the unique opportunity to work both a Standard AND a Jumpers course/sequence. The courses/sequences are specifically designed for the arena by a licensed agility Judge to insure accurate spacing and challenges. Each participant gets the opportunity to work a full 45 minutes with each instructor. The class is divided into two groups, with a 4’ solid privacy wall separating the two rings. The class participants are teamed according to competition and skill level to ensure that all dogs in each group are sharing class time with dogs of equal proficiency levels. Competition class levels for these classes are Masters/Excellent & Advanced/Open levels (dogs not currently competing at class level will need instructor approval before being accepted into classes). Limit: 12 working spots per class (split into two working groups, one group of no more then 6 working with each instructor at a time). 6 Weeks: $225.00 FMI and/or to reserve a working spot in any of our classes email: speedoggieagility@me.com

______________________________________________________________________________________________

Tuesday Evenings Group Classes

Instructed by

Frankie Joiris

World renowned animal trainer for cinema and television, international seminar presenter and author/columnist of many animal training publications. Specializing in agility and trick training, animal acting and behavior problem solving.

Class Dates: January 10, 17, 24, 31, February 7, 14, 2012

Introduction To Agility 5:30pm-6:30pm

Introduction To Agility 6:45pm-7:45pm

Obstacle Skills & Handling 8:00pm-9:00pm

Class Limit (each class): 8

6 Week Class: $175

Class Descriptions:

INTRODUCTION TO AGILITY

Two classes, one at 5:30pm-6:30pm and another at 6:45pm-7:45pm. Beat the winter doldrums and keep Fido from bouncing off the walls with cabin fever. Agility class is the perfect way to have fun with your dog while learning the basic skills needed for this fast paced team sport you and your dog play together. This class is perfect for puppies and dogs of all ages starting out in agility. You’ll learn the fundamentals of the sport while giving your dog a great workout and you’ll both have a blast!6 Weeks: $175.00 Class Limit (each class): 8. FMI and/or to reserve a working spot in any of our classes email: speedoggieagility@me.com

OBSTACLE SKILLS & HANDLING

You’ve learned the basics of the sport, now you and your dog are hooked. This is the class for teams who have already learned the basics of how to navigate agility equipment and are ready to take it up a notch. This class incorporates a variety of fun games and exercises to polish up obstacle training and start developing the skills you and your dog need to run sequences and short courses. Side changes (front and rear crosses), extension and collection cues, impulse control and more are covered in this fast paced class. 6 Weeks: $175.00 Limit 8 working spots. FMI and/or to reserve a working spot in any of our classes email: speedoggieagility@me.com

Detailed Class Description

_____________________________________________________________________________________________

Thursday Evening Group Classes

Instructed by

Frankie Joiris

World renowned animal trainer for cinema and television, international seminar presenter and author/columnist of many animal training publications. Specializing in trick training, animal acting and behavior problem solving.

Class Dates: January 12, 19, 26, February 2, 9, 16 2012

Puppy & Young Dog Agility Skills 6:45pm-7:45pm

Advanced Skills & Sequencing 8:00pm-9:00pm

Class Limit: 8

6 Week Class: $175

Class Descriptions:

PUPPY & YOUNG DOG AGILITY SKILLS

This class teaches agility from the ground up with its focus on competition agility. skills Introduce your puppy or young dog to the fundamental skills needed for a successful agility career. The games and exercises in this class incorporate all kinds of flatwork to teach dogs handling and obstacle skills, as well as working on critical core strengthening exercise, balance, and body awareness. Class limit: 8. 6 week session: $175.00. FMI and/or to reserve a working spot in any of our classes email: speedoggieagility@me.com

ADVANCED SKILLS & SEQUENCING

A class for dogs who have gone thru our Puppy & Young Dog Agility Skills Class or dogs with previous training experience who fit into this class (instructor approval required) with its focus on competition agility skills. Lots more focus on handling, side changes, collection and extension exercises as well as continued obstacle skills and advanced core strengthening exercises and balance work perfect for growing puppies and young dogs. Class limit: 8. 6 week session: $175.00. FMI and/or to reserve a working spot in any of our classes email: speedoggieagility@me.com

2011-12-20T17:32:00.000-08:00

(all equipment in this photo is regulation size and all jumps are 5 ft wide)

AGILITY GRAND OPENING
FREE AGILITY RUN-THURS

Saturday, January 7th, 2012

8:00am - 12:00pm - Competition Run Thrus - Open To Experienced Agility Teams

1:00pm-4:00pm - Introduction To Agility - Open To All

Location: Indoor Agility Training Area (heated/matted)

Green Leaf Pet Resort & Hotel

23 Burnt Tavern Road, Millstone Twp, NJ www.greenleafpetresort.com

Come have fun with your dog and see the new facility everyone is talking about. Whether you’re a seasoned agility competitor or you’ve never even tried it, our fun day has something for you and your dog.

RUN THRUS

Experienced handlers, we’re having competition run-thrus (Novice/Open & Excellent/Masters) from 8:00 until Noon FREE if you pre-register. This is an excellent opportunity to have fun, work your dog, tour our facility and meet the entire Speedoggie training staff.

Each dog is allowed 2 minutes per run, handlers are allowed 2 free runs for each dog they pre-register, additional runs $3. Register by sending your name, your dog’s name, competition level and contact information to speedoggieagility@me.com. You will receive a confirmation and an estimate of when your walk thru will be.

Day of event entries are $5 per run.

INTRODUCTION TO AGILITY FUN

From 1:00 PM to 4:00 PM we invite anyone who has thought about doing agility with their dog to come give it a try. The Speedoggie staff of highly experienced trainers will work individually with you and your best friend for the best introduction to this wonderful and entertaining sport. People and dogs of all ages will have a great time. Agility is fun for any breed or size dog. Come let us show you how to play the game. This fun day is completely FREE. No need to pre-register, just show up and have fun.

If you and your dog want to continue with the sport, the Speedoggie instructors will all be on hand to answer any questions you might have and help you find the class that is right for you and your dog.

Big BIG News at Speedoggie!

2011-12-02T11:53:00.000-08:00

Chris Ott (Parker) of Speedoggie Performance Dog Training is proud to announce the opening of it’s new agility facility in collaboration with The Green Leaf Pet Resort and Hotel located at 23 Burnt Tavern Road, Millstone Twp, NJ 08510 (www.greenleafpetresort.com).

The Green Leaf Pet Resort & Hotel is located on 56 scenic acres nestled alongside a picturesque lake and blueberry farm and surrounded by an exquisite forest preserve approximately one mile off I-195 exit 16. The facility offers daycare, boarding, training, grooming and much more. The Green Leaf Pet Resort & Hotel hosts a 4,500 sq ft daycare play area with anti-fatigue flooring, 1,500 sq ft grooming area and spa, and a 500 sq ft puppy socializing suite as well as state-of-the art suites for boarding dogs. Additional features include an anti-microbial cleaning systems and hospital-grade air filtration system throughout the green and energy efficient facility that ensures a germ-free environment for all pets.

The agility training room inside this impressive facility is approx 3,500 sq ft (free span) fully matted with Dog Agility Foam Mats (specifically designed for dog agility). This dog sport specific matting is installed over the same stress-free flooring that can be found throughout the entire facility, adding cushioning and impact resistance as well as increasing the already great traction of this acclaimed agility footing (www.greatmats.com/products/dogagility.php). The agility facility boasts brand new Max200 (www.max200.com) agility and training equipment (all rubberized contact equipment). Indoor, sanitized and climate controlled crating rooms for all dogs enrolled in classes, so there is no need to leave dogs in your vehicle or bring crates to classes if you are enrolled in more then one class, or with more then one dog. The facility also has multiple outdoor grass rings, fully fenced and lighted dedicated to agility, for use during spring, summer and fall. Speedoggie and Green Leaf Pet Resort & Hotel plan to host trials, fun matches & run throughs, camps, seminars, workshops, group classes and private lessons year round both indoors and outdoors (as weather permits). Making us one of the largest agility facilities in the country.

A 3,000 sq ft indoor aquatic center for exercise, recreation and relaxation, is currently under construction and is expected to be available for guests to enjoy by Mid 2012.

Keep a look out for Speedoggie’s Open House announcement, a fun filled day of agility fun runs, activities and guided tours of the new facility. Speedoggie’s 2012 class schedule will be announced next week.

All classes/lessons are being booked directly through Speedoggie at this time. Contact speedoggieagility@me.com for all information concerning agility at this new facility. *This agility/training facility is not available for private ring rental of any kind.

Another Way Of Looking At Early Take-Off Syndrome

2011-10-28T10:03:00.000-07:00

Another Way Of Looking At Early Take-Off Syndrome

by Chris Ott

The phrase Early Take-Off Syndrome was coined to describe the behavior of taking off in an inappropriately early spot when jumping, usually in relation to agility training and competition. It appears that, for whatever reason, the dog is not measuring correctly and therefore miscalculates position. There are a number of theories as to why this happens, but nothing definite is known yet. There are some breeds, and some lines within certain breeds, that seem to manifest this issue frequently, but it is also seen in individuals of a wide variety of breeds. It is tempting to assume that this issue is genetic in nature, and further research may indeed find that it is, however it is equally important to realize that at this time there is no definite proof that the problem is genetic, nor is anyone entirely clear on what is actually causing these dogs to manifest this particular jumping style.

There is a common is expression in scientific research, correlation does not imply causation, that is important to bear in mind as we move forward in research on the topic of dogs taking off too early when jumping. As tempting as it is to point to a specific breed, or a specific line within a breed, or a specific sire or dam within a line as the carrier of the problem, our dogs are raised with far too many variables to make any such clear cut assumptions. While it is important for people who are searching for dogs as agility prospects to eventually have an understanding of what causes this issue, it is equally important not to present guesses, no matter how educated, as fact, and to proceed carefully as we learn more about the possible causes. It is also entirely plausible that, while the issue manifests the same symptoms in different breeds, the cause might be different in different breeds, or even in different dogs of the same breed.

Chris Zink, D.V.M., Ph.D., is a consultant on canine sports medicine, evaluating canine structure and locomotion, with an expertise in re-training problem jumpers. When asked whether she felt ETS was an actual syndrome or a variety of unrelated jumping issues lumped together, Dr. Zink had this to say:

“I hesitate to call it a syndrome, however, since that implies physical or psychological illness. (Definition of 'syndrome': A group of symptoms that collectively indicate or characterize a disease, psychological disorder, or other abnormal condition.) I truly believe that taking off too early often is exacerbated by vision issues or physical structure, but that at its core it represents a basic misunderstanding on the part of the dog of how to approach the complex job of jumping, particularly jumping in agility, where speed is desirable and complexity is high.”

As published by M.W. Fox in Electroenceophalography and Clinical Neurophysiology, 24(3), 1968, pp 213-226, in a study of the development of evoked responses in restrained but unanesthetized dogs of various ages using chronically implanted electrodes in the visual and auditory cortex,

Development of visual and auditory evoked responses was rapid during the 1st 3 wk. of life, attaining relatively mature characteristics by 4-5 wk. Neuronal development in both complexity by 4-5 wk. the most rapid development occurring during the 1st 3 wk. in both the deeper and more superficial cell layers. Subsequent developmental changes were more gradual, and contrasted the rapid development of all parameters studied during the period from birth to 3 wk.

Early visual stimulation, or the lack thereof, appears to affect the development of vision. Drs. David Hubel and Torsten Wiesel, recipients of the 1981 Nobel Prize in Physiology or Medicine for their discoveries concerning information processing in the visual system clearly demonstrated the lack of early visual stimulation can permanently affect vision, and this research became the basis for programs of early visual stimulation for infants with possible visual impairment. While again, correlation does not prove causation, puppies from the same litter, in addition to having the same genetic background, also share the same early visual stimulation experiences, so the fact that puppies from the same litter manifest the same visual problem does not automatically indicate a genetic factor. It is entirely possible that modifying early puppy visual stimulation might cause great improvement in the dogs’ later ability to gauge jump distances correctly. The method in which the dogs are trained to jump also needs to be taken into consideration as it is not uncommon for dogs from the same litter to be trained in the same classes or with the same trainer. It is perhaps the case that certain types of training, or certain types of early visual stimulation, are necessary for specific dogs while not being as needed for other dogs.

Anecdotally, I have found that many dogs who exhibit this form of jumping issue also struggle with impulse control, confidence and/or have other behavioral issues. Whether this is a cause or an effect, or purely coincidental, we do not know, but it is another factor that perhaps needs to be taken into account when looking at possible causes.

We asked Dr. Zink whether she felt that it was possible that ETS was caused or exacerbated by certain training methods and she responded that,

“I do think that this is the case. And I have only come to this belief recently. With my own dog, once she was mature and I lost a little weight, I started to push her for speed. Certainly we both were capable of moving faster over the ground. But that is when she started to take off earlier. I believe that this was because she was trying harder, running faster and as a result failing to realize that she still had to collect her strides before the jump. The harder she ran the sooner she took off. By retraining her to collect her stride, her jumping problem resolved. But it took about 3 months, and still requires ongoing training to remind her to collect.

I also wonder whether this problem occurs more with dogs that are pushed for speed at a young age. There is a belief by some trainers that you should not ever have the dog do agility slowly or the dog will never achieve its full speed. Others believe that you should let the dog learn at its own pace, then allow them to ramp up their speed when they become confident. I suspect that dogs in the first group are more likely to have problems with taking off too early.“

There is very little research available on depth perception in dogs. One paper, Evidence for averaging of distance from landmarks in the domestic dog. Fiset, Sylvain; Behavioural Processes, Vol 81(3), Jul, 2009. pp. 429-438, looks at several studies in landmark use and finds that studies have shown

“that animals locate spatial positions by predominantly using perpendicular distance from extended surfaces over distance from individual landmarks. In the current study, I investigated whether the domestic dog encodes perpendicular distance from surfaces and whether they estimate distances from multiple cues.”

And it is known that dogs who are blind in one eye continue to have functional depth perception, despite no longer having stereoscopic vision. Indeed, there are several one eyed dogs competing quite successfully in agility. This is another indication that there are several factors at work in functional depth perception.

Most importantly, dogs who exhibit this form of jumping problem, while not ideally suited for careers in agility competition, are not actually handicapped. Dog breeds were designed for specific tasks, and in breeding dogs perhaps the most important question is whether the dog is sound and healthy and can excel in performing the task for which the breed was designed. Very few breeds have jobs that require them to jump in the way that agility competition requires. Norfolk Terriers, for example, a breed with a very high incidence of dogs who take off inappropriately early when jumping, are bred to hunt varmint, often in burrows and other areas entirely void of light. They, in effect, hunt blind. Their ability to correctly gauge the take off spot for a jump is not in any way required for them to live long, productive, healthy lives. Culling dogs from the gene pool because they manifest this issue would be a disservice to the breed as it would further shrink a very small gene pool and make it harder to breed dogs with low inbreeding coefficients. Border Collies who manifest this issue also will not suffer any impairment in their ability to perform as herding dogs.

People who are breeding dogs of any breed specifically to produce agility prospects without concern for the actual original purpose of the breed, must, of course, take into consideration, among many other considerations, whether the dogs manifest this particular jumping issue. If one is aware that a dog seems to have produced a number of dogs who exhibit difficulty correctly measuring jumping distance and take off too soon, then one has to consider all factors involved to make as educated a decision as possible about whether or not to breed to the animal, and what modifications, if any, they might choose to make when raising and training the resulting puppies if they do choose to breed the dog. For many breeders it might be most comfortable to abstain from breeding to these dogs until more is known about what might cause dogs to manifest this jumping issue, but neutering dogs who otherwise are excellent additions to the gene pool (dogs structurally and mentally sound dogs with all health and genetic clearances for their breed who have excelled in whatever form of competition they partake in, for example) might be taking it too far. Rather than cull these dogs from the gene pool entirely, perhaps a more cautious course of action would be to withhold breeding to them at this time, perhaps collecting semen for possible use at a later date when more is known about factors causing the problem.

When Dr. Zink was asked if a dog is otherwise healthy, has passed all health clearances for the breed and is able to excel at the task for which the breed was originally created (herding for BC, ratting for Nors, etc.) do you think that evidence of ETS in a dog is reason enough to cull a dog from the gene pool? She responded:

“Absolutely not. And I am shocked to hear that people have been spaying/neutering dogs that have this problem, believing it to be genetic. I hope that is just a rumor.”

Research is currently underway to try to tease out what this syndrome actually is and whether there is a single factor causing the issue. I feel strongly that waiting to make any major decisions about culling dogs from the gene pool until after the research is complete might be the most reasonable course of action.

Copyright 2011 Speedoggie LLC. All rights reserved. No part of this document may be reproduced or transmitted in any form, by any means (electronic, photocopying, recording, or otherwise) without the prior written permission of the author.

2011-08-18T08:37:00.000-07:00

Nicholas S. Ott

Cpl. Nicholas S. Ott

AGE: 23 • Manchester

Cpl. Nicholas S. Ott, 23, of Manchester, was killed in action on Wednesday, Aug. 10, 2011, in Helmand Province, Afghanistan. Born in Neptune, Nick was a lifelong resident of Manchester. He attended and graduated from Manchester High School, where he lettered in football, wrestling and track. Cpl Nicholas Ott was a good leader and he loved his fellow Marines. Cpl. Ott, who was in Afghanistan for Operation Enduring Freedom, received many medals and awards: the Purple Heart, Navy and Marine Corps Achievement, Combat Action Ribbon, Good Conduct Medal, National Defense Service Medal, Afghanistan Campaign Medal with one Bronze Campaign Star, Global War on Terrorism Expeditionary Medal, Global War on Terrorism Service Medal, Sea Service Deployment Ribbon with Two Bronze Stars, North Atlantic Treaty Organization Medal-ISAF, Rifle Marksman Badge and Pistol Marksman Badge.

Nick was predeceased by his maternal grandfather, John F. Kleinknecht. He is survived by his loving parents, Stephen and Debra Ott; his cherished sister, Julia Ott; his maternal grandmother, Janet Kleinknecht; his paternal grandparents, Paul and Jacqueline Ott; his aunts, Christine Ott, Sharon Watkins, and Marybeth Spann; and his cousins, Vanessa, Clint, Josh, Loren and Katelyn. He is also survived by his circle of friends.

Visitation will be from 3 to 8 p.m. Thursday, Aug. 18 at St. John's Roman Catholic Church, 619 Chestnut St., Lakehurst. Family and friends are kindly invited to go right to St. John's R.C. Church, where a Mass of Christian Burial will be offered at 11 a.m. on Friday, Aug. 19. Interment to follow at the Brig. Gen. William C. Doyle Veterans Memorial Cemetery, Wrightstown. In lieu of flowers, a scholarship fund for future Manchester High School graduates has been founded in Nick Ott's memory. Donations can be made by mail to the Manchester Township Education Foundation, P.O. Box 168, Whiting, NJ 08759 (payable to MTEF/Ott) orwww.mtef4kids.org. Tributes can be sent to www.andersoncampbellmanchester.com.

Memorial Services For My Nephew

2011-08-16T18:05:00.000-07:00

The viewing for Cpl. Nick Ott will be held on Thursday August 18th at Saint John's Roman Catholic Church, 619 Chestnut St. Lakehurst NJ, from 3 PM to 8 PM.

A mass will be held at 11 AM on Friday August 19th, also at Saint John's Roman Catholic Church, followed by the burial at Brigadier General William C. Doyle Memorial Cemetery, 350 Province Line Road, Wrightstown NJ.

A Very Sad Day

2011-08-11T14:22:00.000-07:00

My nephew, a marine, was killed today in Afghanastan. Please pray that this war is over soon.

Three Years... Really?

2011-06-09T20:16:00.000-07:00

Is that really how long its been? Time flies... Its been three years since I sat in a hotel room, just me and my dogs the night before a no-so-local show, checking running orders and marking up my show conformation making sure Im set on which ring each dog will be in and at what time. Deciding if I have time to stop for breakfast in the morning (theres a diner next to the hotel) or do I have to race to the show site caffeine-less so I will make my first walk thru.

Three years ago I was sitting on the hotel bed with my golden retriever "Cajun", my first Border Collie "Mayhem" and his son "Yikes!" Cajun and Mayhem are gone now, keeping an eye on me and the family from the Rainbow Bridge. Yikes! is retired and enjoying a life of leisure watching movies off my iPad and helping me with any chore I might have.. including raising puppies.

Tonight I sit in this hotel room with the "New Guard". 'Wow!" and "Got'cha", both Mayhem sons, and a Mayhem Granddaughter "Tease". Its amazing how much your life can change in three years. Tonight I feel like Ive come full circle. After I lost Cajun and Mayhem I also lost a lot of my desire for competition. But over the last 6 months its been coming back. I booked this trip, a 3+ hour travel from my house, a few months back. Decided I was tired of the local shows and wanted to take a trip with the dogs. Originally a few friends were also showing at this event and we were all to attend it together. As fate would have it my friends either pulled their entires or couldn't come due to work conflicts. So... here I am with my dogs showing at a not-so-local show, by myself.

Driving up here, thru horrible thunderstorms, I was reminded of the old days. Driving the RV thru all kinds of weather to get to all kinds of off the beaten path competitions. Finding great events like ones held in Stowe, Blackthorn and Fryburg. Wonderful competitors, decent accommodation and spectacular scenery. Just me and the dogs, traveling all over the country together. Those were the days before two of my dogs fought against cancer... and lost, before I was diagnosed with diabetes... and am determined to win.

Three years later I sit in this hotel room preparing for tomorrows event. Not exactly a fantastic hotel room, but my dogs are with me so how bad can it be? Watching them all sleeping, crashed out all over the room, brings back so many memories of the "old guard" (Cajun, Mayhem and Yikes!) and I cant help but smile. My happiest times are when Im alone with my dogs. No matter what the weekend results are, its a great weekend because I have my "kids" here with me... if only for a little while. Time flies, and I need to make sure I appreciate every minute of it.

Winner of this weeks Bowling Game in our FTBT Class!

2011-04-15T10:39:00.000-07:00

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=otufPO7CfsE

This dog wins the most progress award in class today! Were on week 2 of FTBT Level I class and this little rescue BC just learned how to "push" and object last week! This is the first step in our "Bowling" game. We use this game to teach dogs the behavior of "push", which can then be used to teach the dogs to navigate an agility chute obstacle (especially when the material is wet from rain). The next progression of this game is to push the ball into bowling pins and the dogs learn to knock the pins over. This game is what we use to desensitize dogs to things falling (like jump bars, which can be a leading cause of jumping anxiety and inappropriate take off positions). We then take the game in the Level II class and move on to the sport of "Treibball" where the dogs herd exercise balls into a goal. A really fun game that dogs of all breeds and sizes can play.

Fit To Be Tricked Class focuses on specialized trick training designed to improve your dog's abilities in performance events while keeping them fit, increasing physical strength, decreasing muscle recovery time and raising your dog’s learning ability and focus. Seminars available: contact information@speedoggie.com FMI

Fit To Be Tricked Seminar Coming To Pittsburgh PA Area

2011-04-07T10:02:00.000-07:00

Speedoggie Performance Dog Training
is pleased to announce a one of a kind training opportunity

"Fit To Be Tricked"

Specialized Trick Training
A Fun Way To Optimize Fitness, Flexibility & Coordination

with

World Renowned Animal Trainer

Sassie Frankie Joiris

and

Agility Champion and Guinness World Record Holder

Chris Ott-Parker

Comprehensive program designed with
Internationally Recognized Physical Therapist "Ria Acciani, MPT"

This one of a kind seminar focuses on specialized trick training designed to improve your dog's abilities in performance events while keeping them fit, increasing physical strength, decreasing muscle recovery time and raising your dog’s learning ability and focus.

Frankie (Sassie) Joiris and Chris Ott-Parker are international seminar presenters and full time dog trainers with a combined 60 years experience training dogs in agility, obedience, conformation, search and rescue, hunting events, as well extensive experience in television and film. Both Frankie and Chris have competed at the top levels of multiple dog sports venues with multiple breeds of dogs and are well known for their ability to customize training to fit each team’s unique strengths and ability.

Date: June 25-26, 2011

Location: You Go Little Dog LLC

11099 Route 993, North Huntingdon, PA 15642

(Indoors, artificial turf footing)

www.yougolittledog.com

Cost: $175

Frankie (Sassie) Joiris trains animal actors (birds, farm animals, turtles, cats and dogs) for television, film and print advertisements. Her dogs include Norfolk Terrier Ch MACH Stamp, RN NF JE, Boing! , a whippet, and puppy Toggle, a Pyrenean Shepherd. Frankie teaches agility at Morris K9 Campus in NJ, Talbot KC in MD, and Animal Haven in NYC. She is also an instructor at Camp Gone to the Dogs in Vermont. She writes on the subject of animal training for several publications, including Clean Run, American Animal Trainer, Pet Bird Report and Companion Parrot Quarterly. She also has a widely read blog at http://fjoiris.livejournal.com. Her style of training is eclectic and conversational and is focused on an individual approach to each animal. Frankie is a popular instructor since she works with and excels at training non-traditional performance breeds using many nontraditional methods. A link to student testimonials http://home.netcom.com/~joiris/id13.html

Chris Ott-Parker is an international level dog agility competitor, trainer and coach. Two time USA/AKC World Agility Team Member, National Agility Champion, Guinness World Record Holder and USA European Agility Open Team Member with two dogs. She is also one of the USAs top breeders of performance Border Collies with multiple dogs of her breeding being selected to represent the USA at FCI World Championships and Crufts as well as winning National Agility Championships.

Well known for her ability to work with many breeds, dozens of Chris’ students regularly represent their breed each year at the prestigious AKC/Eukanuba National Agility Invitational (breeds including: Spanish Water Dog, Poodle, Cocker Spaniel, Wire Fox Terrier, Rottweiler, German Shepherd, Briard and Border Collie).

Chris works with all breeds of dogs including mixed breeds at all levels of training and all ages. Her training program produces dogs that run and play in agility well into their senior years while remaining sound and healthy. Many of Chris' senior dogs (both her own and her students) are still very competitive in the championship programs of AKC and USDAA as well as other nationally recognized programs such as NADAC, CPE and DOCNA. Chris is also known for her problem solving skills and customizing training programs to fit each teams individual needs.

Chris' 30+ years of experience coupled with her outstanding accomplishments and those of her students makes her one of the highest qualified instructors in the entire country. More info on Chris Ott-Parker available at: www.speedoggie.com

Wowwie 2011 AKC National Agility Championships

2011-04-04T12:38:00.000-07:00

To say its been a while since Ive written on this blog is an understatement. Life has been busy, my day to day and dog news gets updated on Facebook... and Im lazy :) But, I just returned from this years AKC Agility Nationals in Lexington VA and felt the need to update. So here goes.
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Bonnie and I arrived late afternoon on Thursday with plenty of time to unload, check out the rings and visit. I of course made a beeline to find Gayle and John York (who own Wowwies mother) and who also did all the videotaping for NAC (www.bowwowvideo.com). It was great to see them and catch up. Wowwie got to see and play with his Momma and baby sister... he had a really good time! This year Gayle DID NOT put a kiss print on Wowwies head before his runs... and now that we see how well he did without his traditional lipstick lip print, I will make sure she restrains from putting it on him in the future :) Sorry Gayle, but you know how superstitious I am.

The lucky drink! This would be all I drink at dinners before/during important events :)

Bonnie and I shared a stall with my training partner Jessica Ajoux, friend Stephanie Rainer, and mentor Diane Bauman. Linda Bohm a photographer (www.bohm-marrazzo.com) friend and fellow agility enthusiast also shared the stall with us. We all had a great time together and at the end of the day saturday, Bonnie, Jessica, Stephanie and myself were all 100% for the weekend! Talk about the power of surrounding yourself with positive energy! Jess, Diane and I been working together successfully for years. Add Bonnie, Stephanie and Linda and we have ourselves a "success party'. Amazing people, each bringing their own energy into the group. Lets do it again next year ladies!

Wowwie in the hotel room the evening before the NAC. He was feeling very sure of himself this weekend :)

Wow! and I only ran one run on Friday (State Team Tournament Day) because I wanted to take it easy on both of us. One run to determine where we both were mentally, physically etc was all we needed. Unfortunately that one run was in a ring that we would not be in again all weekend. The dirt in the rings in the one building was packed different than the other building, which caused a problem for many.

Ria and David Acciani of Advanced Canine (http://www.dogpt.com) worked on Wow! all weekend to keep him in top shape. Wowwie loves them both and it gave us an opportunity to unwind and relax a bit at the end of our days.

Ria Acciani working on Wowwie on the weeks leading up to the NAC

David Acciani working on Wowwie during the NAC event.

Back at home, I was updating everyone via my Facebook page. The support from my friends and students was amazing. I cant thank everyone enough for keeping me focused and boosting my confidence in myself and my team. There were times on Sunday when I got a bit shaky. My friends and fellow "stall mates" werent having the best day of it. It finally came down to me to master that Round 3 course. From Diane Bauman at my side in the stands reminding me of how prepared we were and going over the course together, Jessica Ajoux ringside working out the details of every handling maneuver to Bonnie Waseleski walking my dog when I was pressed for time, picking me up healthy food so I didnt forget to eat AND listening to me recite every command for my run over and over out loud to make sure my timing was perfect. I have a support staff second to none! Thank you guys, for every laugh, every hug and every high five. Im so lucky to have you all in my life.

Ive never known a happier dog in my life!

Wowwie and I are very proud of ourselves. We worked extremely hard since September of last year getting him back from his whiplash (fell off a dogwalk) and getting our timing on dirt down to as close to perfect as we could get. And THANK GOD we did practice so hard as the footing in rings 1 & 2 were difficult. Hard packed with a fine layer of loose slippery "gravely" dirt. The dogs had very little traction (as proven by watching the dogs in the Challenger Round and then the wide turns in the Finals).

I also want to congratulate Wowwie's daughter "Thriller" and Bonnie McDonnald of Florida for running clear every round too! And finishing 4th in the 16" finals. Amazing accomplishment with a very young dog. Bonnie and Thriller will be at World Team Tryouts this year too! Incredible! from 16" to 26" in the blink of an eye! what'a team!

Also Ann Braue and Wowwie's brother "Scream" were in the Challenger Round and were the demo dog for the 26" finals. As always Annie and Scream looked amazing!

Donna Brown and "BAM" a half sister to Wowwie out of my dog "Mayhem" and my bitch "Frenzy" were also in the Challenger Round 20" and had a smoking clean round but were beaten out of first place :( Still an amazing team to behold!

Sue Tovino and "Whip" (a repeat breeding of Wow), and Denise Thomas and "Zippity" (a litter sister to Wowwie) were also competing this weekend. It was great to see all the babies! From what Julie Jenkins told me (Mayhem's breeder) there were 8 relatives competing this weekend! GO SPRINT BABIES!!!

I will post better video as soon as I receive it from Bow Wow Video. But for now, heres what we shot with the Flip Video camera

Wowwie NAC Rounds 1 & 2

Wowwie NAC Round 3 & Finals

I would love to run those courses on great footing and really push the dogs, but having to hang back and compensate for my teammate who was struggling to keep his feet under him was also a challenge we trained for (having run at on "dirt" many times, it can range from almost beach sand to concrete so we practiced everywhere). Im very proud of my boy and of our team. We will be working our butts off now fixing some skill issues we couldnt address before nationals (ie the dogwalk, which has been an issue since the whiplash). With the blessings of the universe Wowwie and I will have many more opportunities to compete and play with the big dogs.

The other great thing is that my health held up all weekend long. As many of you know I have been very sick. After struggling with health issues for a few years my health finally took a major decline starting in the fall of last year and hitting rock bottom two months ago. After failing with a few doctors to find the cause, I was finally diagnosed with Type 1 Diabetes and I have some heart complications. We started a new medicine regime. The medicines are pretty brutal to me physically but I did finally come up with a system to where I can take what I need to take and not be too sick to live. Im still having good days and bad days, but lucky for Wowwie and I, this weekend were all "good days"! :)

Another mental complication is that my nephew. who is a marine, was air-dropped on the boarder of Afghanistan and Pakistan this friday (right when NAC started) with just the cloths on his back, his backpack and his gun. He will meet up with his supply plane at some point but he will be gone for 7-9 months. I said goodbye to him on Wednesday night. One of the hardest thing Ive ever had to do. To say that my entire world has been put into a totally different perspective is an understatement. And as I listened to the national anthem at the NAC this weekend, I thanked him and every other solider who risk their lives every day for my freedom. Before I left my nephew, he told me to "kick it" at nationals. I did my very best to make him proud. I look forward to seeing him this thanksgiving and showing him the footage from the NAC. He loves my dogs and he knows how hard we work to do what we do. He's always been one of my #1 fans. Somewhere I hope he knows in his heart we did good.

Wowwie and I have been thru a lot together, and our AKC Nationals experience this past weekend will be ranked as one of the best. He's the best partner anyone could ask for and I am blessed to be able to share an agility ring with such a spectacular animal. Thanks buddy for making my agility dreams come true. I cant wait to see where our journey goes from here.

First Road Trip: Duck Herding Part II

2010-01-22T19:46:00.001-08:00

First road trip: Duck Herding Part 1

2010-01-22T19:45:00.001-08:00

Banshee x Nick Day 12.mov

2009-12-18T05:20:00.001-08:00

Banshee x Nick Day 11.mov

2009-12-17T06:37:00.001-08:00

Banshee x Nick Day 9.mov

2009-12-14T13:33:00.001-08:00

Banshee x Nick Day 7.mov

2009-12-12T07:07:00.001-08:00

Banshee x Nick Day 6.mov

2009-12-10T19:48:00.001-08:00

The pups are 6 days old! I cant believe how big they are getting already!

Banshee x Nick Litter is HERE!

2009-12-05T00:16:00.000-08:00

6 puppies in all, 3 boys and 3 girls.

We set the holiday mood for Banshee by lighting her Christmas trees.

and then after waiting 12 hours... she started to nest seriously!

Then 5 hours later...

an ice cream break between puppies :)

a very tired Banshee

exhausted, but very happy momma and babies.

Frenzy Makes the YMCA Blog!

2009-12-04T11:36:00.000-08:00

Pet Partner Visits the YMCA

Frenzy is a pet partner that visits the South Brunswick Family YMCA every now and then. She likes to visit with the staff, children and members, helping to make them feel welcome and at home. Sometimes she, and her pet partner pals Flicker and Torch, get to read and play games with the kids.

Rose, Director of Youth Services, gets a special hello.

Frenzy loves to greet members when they stop by the Welcome Center.

Break time under a desk.
Finally the end of the day and a visit to the kids in the after school program.

We will see you again soon Frenzy!

Wowwie breaks 7yps.mov

2009-11-30T06:44:00.001-08:00

Wowwie enters the "7 Yards Per Second Hall of Fame" with this jumpers run today (his daddy Mayhem broke 7 YPS in his day too). THEN... to make the day even more wonderful, Yikes! (who is 8 years old!!!! and also a Mayhem son) takes second place behind "The Wee" with his own amazing run. Im so proud of my boys!!!! I know Mayhem is smiling down from heaven too!

Wow Willingboro NJ 10-09

2009-10-28T05:31:00.001-07:00

Meet Nick

2009-10-01T11:14:00.001-07:00

Nick has been bred to Banshee. I went to go see this dog on a suggestion from a friend and was totally impressed by him. He's two years old, black and white smooth. Approx. 20.5 inches tall. Beautiful temperament, gets along with all people and all dogs. And he's mega cuddly!!! I love cuddly :)

Nick is owned by Gene Sheninger (owner of my Mayhem's sire Yankee). Nick's sire "Star" is from Stuart Davidson and is a 2-time winner of the International Supreme. Nick's maternal grandsire is "Bart" the 2005 USBCHA Champion. Also in the pedigree are Stuart Davidson's "Craig" and Bobby Dalziel's Wisp who are each 2-time winners of the International Supreme. Also Bobby Dalziel's great producer "Jim" is in the pedigree.

I love his structure and balance. He's a great sheepdog. I got to watch him work for a bit before I picked him up. Wow... sheep arent so bad when you know what your doing :) however... I do NOT know what Im doing... yet.

If there is a toy involved, Nick is either play bowing or smiling at you. If that doesn't work, he throws the toy at you because obviously your dumb and don't know your supposed to throw it!

Jolly Ball... Whoooo Hoooo!

throw it..... throw it....

I got choppers... nice choppers... throw the ball or bring me the woman... your choice :)

Ed Note: Im KIDDING! He smiles when you throw the ball to him... its kinda cute actually.

Dogs got some neck on him... whew!

I can't say enough wonderful things about Nick.

Banshee thinks he's the bomb and is totally smitten with him.

If the breeding takes, were expecting babies on Dec 1st!

MACH Wowwie

2009-07-14T08:59:00.001-07:00

My second "home-grown" champion!

Herding Practice

2009-06-13T17:15:00.000-07:00

In case I haven't mentioned it before... i don't particularly like sheep. My dogs however LOVE to move them around. Thus, I cross train in herding. I work very hard to convince myself that someday, just maybe, I might actually enjoy this sport more.

I have many dogs to train, but they all don't train on the same day (2 hours is about all I can take of sheep :). On this day we worked 4 dogs total. I start off with the more experienced dogs

and they herd...

more experienced sheep [gasp]. These three don't look too intimidated by me or my dog, or the fact that I have very little idea as to what Im actually doing :) The dog however... she knows exactly what she's doing. Still, Im not feeling the love from these three :)

First dog up is Frenzy, my oldest dog, who will be turning 10 years old next month! Frenzy amazes me in this sport. She knows so much more then I will ever understand in her lifetime. She has tons of patience with me and often ignores my commands totally because Im wrong :) I really do need to learn to trust the dog in this sport!

That'll Do... Good Girlie!

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Next up is Banshee, another amazing herding dog. Banshee however does like to throw in a cheap shot now and again with the sheep. So I have to stay on my toes... and for right now, carry a rattle paddle :).

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From there we move onto the baby dogs. This was Got'cha!'s first time on sheep!

He was immediately interested and never once ate sheep poop (yippee!)

These are the sheep we used for the baby dogs. Arent they pretty!

OK so he couldnt lie down on command while herding BUT he did call right off the sheep immediately! Good Boy!

What a great boy he is! An amazing first herding experience if I do say so myself!

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Even Jack, the non-border collie, got to work. This was Jack's first time on sheep too and he was great! Altho he did look like he was going to pass out with excitement a few times :)

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All in all it was a great training day and so nice to be herding in the nice weather!

PS: getting ALL the sheep AROUND the freakin' traffic cone...

PRICELESS!

Sometimes I really am easily entertained :)

Dog Party

2009-06-13T16:45:00.002-07:00

Gotta love it when you can commute to a dog show from home. You can come back to the house, hang out on the newly renovated porch, jam to some good tunes and watch the dogs play!

Yikes! of course only wanted to "schwim"

Jive worked very hard to keep his sheltie self from getting wet in the sprinkler ;)

DAMN! I think a drop or two must of hit him!

Got'cha! likes the sprinker best when its being turned off. THEN its a good time to attack it

This dog party thing... ummm... yea well like "whatever!"... I hate crowds... and loud music... and...

zzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzz

Banshee looking good but thinking "do you KNOW there's a squirrel in the tree? HUH? Could SOMEBODY PLEASE get with the program here?"

Torch was actually caught on camera being a dog! GASP!

2009-06-13T16:45:00.001-07:00

This just might be the most fun a dog can have!

2009-06-05T08:38:00.000-07:00

Flicker, Wow! and Yikes! ready to take the plunge!

The race is on!

Notice Flicker on the edge...

Notice Flicker not in the water... but she is wet... how can that be?...

her toes are in the water...

up to her wrists...

Wha-oh... GASP! This was not part of the Princess' Plan!

Why is it that the paparazzi are always around in your worst moments?...

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And her brother Yikes! is not much better when it comes to water... except he isnt quite as much of a dork ;)

Handsome Boy!

Fishes?

gators?

"I am magnificent aren't I... yes, yes, I beleive I am..."

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and then there's Wow!

Splashin', squealin', love da water more then anything else in da world, kinda guy!

I sling mud and squeal really loud... and don't care who I get muddy with me.

I run up and down the creek making the water all muddy...

I find pretty little rock ledges and walk nicely on them so the paparazzi can get my good side...

and then it happens... we spot the intruder! [editors note: he swam around this stick for a good 2 minutes staring and talking to it!]

what IS this thing and where did it come from?... [editors note: he actually dug it up in all his wild digging and running. Its connected to a huge branch]

I shall kill it and save the world! [editors note: the SCREAM that he let out when he did this was hysterical!]

arrrgggghhh! I keil you... I keil you...

then i try to find the rest of you! [editors note: he had his head underwater long enough for me to shoot approx 10 photos!]

GASP! Choke! Air... I forgot I need to breathe to be able to save the world from rouge sticks...

When are we coming back Momma??? When???

September buddy... September :)

MACH Yikes!

2009-03-25T08:45:00.000-07:00

I know I dont usually put agility stuff on my blog, HOWEVAH... this was too big a deal not to celebrate!

MACH Speedoggie Already Crazy MAD TM aka "Yikes!"

My very first "home gown" Champion (Mayhem x Frenzy)!

Its been a VERY long 2+ years away from heavy agility competition. Yikes! pulled out this Championship with very little preparation. He's the sweetest dog I own and I am so proud of him. The victory is very bitter sweet but I know his daddy was barking and squealing for him from heaven. And what a great start for us getting back in the game. Well done Yikerman... aka MACHerman!

Back To Some Dog Photos!

2009-01-28T13:46:00.000-08:00

So were covered in ice here today. Im tired of ice.. and snow.. and all that other wintery mix crap that the weather channel continues to predict for us...

[back to some dog photos!]

Frenzy (Mayhem's wife) and Yikes! (Mayhem's son) have been more inseparable then ever! Since we lost Cajun and Mayhem she has put away her "Fun Police" badge and has been actually acting like... a dog [gasp]. We saw her playing with Got'cha! in the yard this week, she was on her back rolling around in the snow with him... of course by the time I got the camera, she had stopped and had an expression on her face like "what me? play? I have no idea what your talking about."

She is obsessive about cleaning her feet as well as Yikes! feet. Mayhem used to clean her feet all the time. Guess she has taken over the job :)

Today it was serious removal of foot "snow balls". She hates dem things.

How embarrassing is it to have your mother clean your feet?!

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This is a great shot of a friends dog named "Buddy".

This is what "Buddy" shots usually look like :)

He truly is the king of the "almost got that shot" club.

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And a visit to the "They grow up so fast" page:

Can you believe she's two months old already?!

Today... I Had My Camera

2009-01-12T10:31:00.000-08:00

OK so before I trained my dogs this morning, I got a chance to shoot some photos of the ice before it melted. I shot for about a half hour and then I couldnt feel my fingers anymore :) Here are a few of my favorites.

Never Leave Home Without Your Camera!

2009-01-11T14:50:00.001-08:00

Because up higher in the mountains of New Jersey it looks like this!

I shot this with my iPhone and was shocked at how good it turned out! It was absolutely amazing to see the entire forest covered in ice! Im heading back up to the mountains tomorrow morning and taking my camera with me! Lets hope the ice is still there.

First Snow of 2009!

2009-01-11T14:29:00.000-08:00

After a two hour drive home thru the first snow of 2009, I did get a chance to get a few good shots before we lost daylight.

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Clearing the snow in the "Max" is much more fun then driving in it!

No birds at home...

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The next day Got'cha! got to play outside in a winter wonderland!

He loves to eat snow (as do all my dogs).

He is looking all grown up lately... except for that snow on his nose :)

It is amazing just how small a new born baby is...

2009-01-11T14:14:00.000-08:00

... and I thought puppies were tiny :)

Olivia's First Day Home

2008-12-25T06:18:00.000-08:00

Olivia is the daughter of a friend. I took this photo of her on her first day home. After finding the perfect frame, this photo made a fabulous holiday gift :) Olivia is now two weeks old and I can't get over how much she has changed and grown already. She has become one of my favorite people to photograph.

Christmas Eve Ice Storm

2008-12-25T05:59:00.000-08:00

Here are a few photos from yesterdays ice storm.

Happy Birthday Hemi (November 29)

2008-11-30T14:16:00.001-08:00

Happy Birthday Hemi. He would of been 10 years old. These photos were taken with my iphone at one of our consultations.

I'm dreaming of sleeping next to you and feeling like a lost little boy in a brand new town
I'm counting my sheep and each one that passes is another dream to ashes
And they all fall down.

And as I lay me down tonight, I close my eyes
What a beautiful sight

Sleeping to dream about you , and I'm so tired
Of having to live without you

But I don't mind sleeping to dream about you

and I'm so tired

I found myself in the riches
Your eyes, your lips, your hair and you were everywhere
I woke up in the ditches, I hit the light and I thought you might be here
But you were nowhere (you were nowhere)
Well you were nowhere at home

And as I lay me back to sleep
Lord I pray that I can keep

It's just a little a lullaby to keep myself from crying myself to sleep at night
Oh just a lullabye to keep from crying myself to sleep
Oh just a, just oh, just a little lullabye,

"Sleeping To Dream" Jason Mraz Video: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ZrlhawRComo

Oh, and until the dawn it brings

Another day to sing about

the magic that was you and me

Cause you and I both loved

What you and I spoke of

And others just read of

Others only read of the love,

of the love that I love

("You and I" ~ Jason Mraz)

Down On The Farm

2008-11-13T12:31:00.001-08:00

I recently watched a friends farm for the weekend. Great photo opportunities and the dogs got to spend the weekend running around the farm.

Unfortunately, I downloaded all the photos I took the first day to my computer and cleared the card (ugh...). That computer crashed. So all I have left are the photos from the rest of the weekend and a lesson learned: "Dont clear the card until you back it up!".

Sometimes however its as much fun to shoot photos of your friends shooting photos as it is to dodge sheep yourself...

I named this shot "Road Kill" :)

And yes... I suspect that Carolyn has a photo of me taking this photo of her :)

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Like father... like daughter.

... and then there was Ras, the Islandic Sheepdog. She does get around :)

Yikes! was in love with her.

Jive was interested but he was saving his heart for someone else.

Dig-it! was happy to have someone her own size to run with.

Got'cha! obviously was not listening :)

Gilli, a rescue BC that was being fostered at the farm, was too busy making sure she smelled REALLY good for her newest boyfriend...

"may I have this dance?"

... Pretty Please?!

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How can you have this many dogs in a shot and not have a SINGLE one looking at you?

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Can you find the Blue Boy?

Im telling ya... he really IS a mountain goat!

Autumn is my favorite season

2008-11-11T09:43:00.000-08:00

I look forward to breaking out the down jacket for the first time each year.

I have this book with all kinds of places to go hiking with your dogs in New Jersey. Each week we go to a new park.

This was Jack's first hike.

He was a superstar and was SO HAPPY to be out in the woods! I normally take just one of my dogs with me at a time when I go hiking. It makes for great one on one time for us and it is easier when we go with a group of friends. Its also a great motivator each week to get out and hike more so each dog gets a chance.

We brought Carolyn and Jive to collect ticks. Seriously, Jive is so low to the ground he collects all the ticks so there are no more for anyone else to get! Poor buddy - but is he a cute dog or WHAT?! I was never a sheltie fan until I got to know Jive. Now Im hooked.

Next to go for a hike was Got-cha!

He was a mountain goat! Loving to climb on rocks and downed trees. His ears are in-between tapings (don't freak out Gayle... I wont leave them this way!)

LOTS of leaves in this park.

If you kiss your dog in the park and someone has a camera... its considered PUBLIC and that is mortifying :)

He's so cute I can't hardly stand it :)

Let It Snow!

2008-10-30T13:37:00.000-07:00

A bit early for our first snowfall but...

Snow on the pumpkins...

Snow on the Yiker-Man.

HUGE wet snowflakes that you could hear hit the trees and ground.

The agility field was covered with snow within minutes.

Got'cha's first snow experience.

Didnt take him long to figure out that THIS was fun stuff!

And while we all sat around the outdoor fireplace drying off some...

Got'cha! decided to try to dig his way out of the xpen to get back outside to play in the snow!

Quicksilver Ready Aim Fire "Mayhem" 11/29/98 ~ 10/16/08

2008-10-16T15:16:00.000-07:00

Photos taken hours before Hemi and I had to say goodbye... for now.

Lyrics from Sarah McLaughlin's "Answer"

(Video: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=i8B1ai25lUo)
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Cast me gently
Into morning
For the night has been unkind

I will be the answer
At the end of the line

I will be there for you

While you take the time

In the burning of uncertainty
I will be your solid ground
I will hold the balance

If you can't look down
Take me to a
Place so holy

That I can wash this from my mind
The memory of choosing not to fight
If it takes my whole life

I won't break, I won't bend

It will all be worth it

Worth it in the end
'Cause I can only tell you what I know
That I need you in my life
When the stars have all burned out
You'll still be burning so bright

Got Game?

2008-10-15T17:11:00.000-07:00

Its been a very bad week for Mayhem. Were hoping he will rally, but if not, here's a nice shot of him out in the field enjoying a beautiful day with his family.

We cherish every single moment we have with him.

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This toy was todays biggest hit!

I see you!

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This toy was also popular.

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The frisbee provided the best photo opportunities!

Yikes! is pretty good at catching a frisbee and making a big game on his own with it.

Got'cha! throws his own frisbee!
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Yikes! and Got'cha! engage in a bit of tug of war. Uncle Yikes! is known for letting the young dogs win at this game :)

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Diggity has grown into herself. She's not looking like a puppy anymore.

Got'cha! is starting to grow taller then Diggity!

Miercats :)

Father Wow! and daughter Dig-It! and Uncle Got'cha!

Autumn On The Mountain

2008-10-15T16:26:00.000-07:00

This weekend I went for 2 hour hike at a friends farm. No dogs for this hike because I worry about ticks this time of year. But I will take the dogs on this hike again once the snow falls and the ticks are gone :)

This little fellow was kind enough to pose for a photo... he's so small I cant beleive I actually saw him!

Introducing Jack

2008-10-09T19:23:00.001-07:00

This is Jack, a 3 year old GSD. He is the sweetest boy you would ever want to meet.

Jack meets Border Collies... Jack LOVES Border Collies :)

This is a picture I ALMOST got :) Got'cha! shows off his choppers to Diggity all the time, however...

NOT to the big GSD.

[grovel... grovel..]

Jack was rescued from living in a basement/garage with limited to no activity or interaction. Got'cha's new job is Jack's workout buddy.

Jack loves Got'cha - Got'cha loves Jack.

ooops... Jack tried to love Diggity a little TOO much. Remember the "Table = Base", Jack seems to understand this rule... must be some herding dog thing. The expression on Jack's face is about the funniest thing I've ever photographed.

Chewy Faces

2008-10-09T19:14:00.000-07:00

Is it just my dogs... or do all dogs make goofy faces when they're working on a good chewy?

OK this is my favorite!

Got'cha's ears get all kinds of funny...

Yikes! just looks stoned :)

Sk8er Dogs

2008-10-02T13:20:00.000-07:00

Outrageous fun training young dogs to ride skateboards.

Our first contestant is the beautiful, talented and slightly wicked [grin] "Arie"

Speedoggie Solar Power (Wow x Banshee)

No fear here!

Three feet on...

All four feet on!!!

Getting fancy already... Show off :)

No this isnt Arie...

It's her mother Banshee

With her signature "Silly Grin". We know where the babies get their skateboarding talent from. Banshee was a superstar.

Porsche and her junior handler make easy work of this game.

Wheres my cookie?

This is Porsche's baby brother "Diesel"

Its the right ear that is really working it this week!

A little shy of the skateboard at first...

but he soon catches on to the game.

Cash is all leg this week but he was AMAZING on his skateboard.

He won the distance award for pushing his skateboard all the way across the room!

Its the crossed front feet that cracked me up. I guess he is showing us his own "signature" style! Such a surfer-dude, blonde hair and all.

Doberman vs Border Collies (Cassidy and Monday vs Got'cha and Diggity)

2008-09-24T18:49:00.001-07:00

First we casually play with the toys...

Lulling our prey into thinking we are sweet, lovable and harmless...[OK we really ARE sweet, loveable and relatively harmless but dont tell anyone! You will ruin our reputation.]

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And now for a brief interuption:

goofy Dobie moment caught on film...

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We return to our story:

Yes... Yes... Little Blue Boy, lets play a game...

Hey, this blue sucker is kinda quick!

Table = Base

Tackle... two down at the same time! Dobie's Win!!!

This young blue one is spunky! And cute...
OK... this is getting to be a bit too sexy...

Thats better.
-----

And while her brother was getting beat up (sorta), what was Diggity doing?
Besides being very very cute?

Giving kisses to her fans of course!

Family Day

2008-09-24T17:56:00.000-07:00

So the other day Mayhem was feeling pretty good. His 105+ fever broke the day before and his new meds were kickin' in pretty good. We took the opportunity to enjoy some time with the rest of the family in the field. The weather was beautiful and everyone seemed so happy to have Hemi back in the fold.

Got'cha is always watching to see who's coming and going.

A can of dog food (something stinky for Mayhem to hopefully eat... he didnt but it was a good effort) that I set out to warm up a little in the sun while I shot some photos of the kids playing. Got'cha and Diggity thought it was very interesting. Note: the dogwalk is raised up so Diggity wont run up it and stand of top of it and taunt Got'cha who gets pissed he cant reach her... yet. Give him a few weeks!!!

Been a while since Wowwie had a smile this big on his face. He loves to play follow the leader with his father. Frenzy even joined in (gasp... she's being a DOG!)

The Three Amigos

Hemi actually romped for a minute or two. He looks like a puppy in this shot.

Hey Gayle... this smile is for you!

Ok so he still isnt thrilled with Got'cha's puppy "in your face" antics. But he is very tollerent... notice Wowwie stealing the toy in the background!

More follow the leader games.

Wowwie is right behind him following his every move.

--------------

Music please...
The happy couple. They are SO CUTE together and she was so happy to have her hubby to play with.

Of course she always gets the toy... then again, she IS the wife.

OK... She's REALLY being a dog here!!!

MY GOD... she's PLAYING with the PUPPY!!!

Wha?
-----------------------

Dirty... slobbered...

Farm dog.

BUT... she's got spunk

Mine!

Bastard!

How humiliating.

--------------------

Got'cha? Party of One? Your table is ready...

Dog is just cracked!

----------------------

Father and Daughter Tug-o-War

Wait.. you dont really see me playing with her right? OK just checking...

Daddy Wins! Diggity is right behind him, but look who's behind her...

[insert theme music from the movie "Jaws" here]

[suspense] Dont be so smug handsome prick eared boy...

The Kwazy Man is BACK!!!! And NOBODY chases the Kwazy Man... cause... well... cause HE'S KWAZY!

"NOM-NOM-NOM"

OH MY is he a handsome boy or WHAT?

20 Years Ago...

2008-09-16T09:02:00.000-07:00

So Im sorting thru a box of photographs of Cajun, Mayhem and Frenzy, scanning in some of my favorites to add to my "digital" collection. I came across these photos tucked inside an old envelope...OH MY did these bring back memories.

This is "Jesse" and I at our first Obedience match. I dont know why I dont have his ribbon (a blue one) in this photo... He was less then a year old in this photo.

Hey... hair color change! HA! This was our first AKC trial :) Freezing cold and totally exhausted because I drove into the show in the morning in the snow. I got there late, the parking lot was a sheet of ice and we ran out of the car and into the ring with no real warmup to speak of! I was ready to puke, but we Q'd and placed! I was like "Huh?... photo with the judge... where... when...?" So I got the dog, judge, award and the Q ribbon but I seem to have forgotten the placement ribbon... I still look like Im gonna puke tho :)

This was the first show I realized staying in a hotel was a better idea :) the parking lot was still a sheet of ice but we coped much better. I wasnt feeling like I was going to puke anymore and we had plenty of time for our warm up. This was our second show and we heeled a perfect 40! I was thrilled (obviously). I got the dog, the award, but once again forgot the placement ribbon.

Third show and hey NICE SHIRT CHRIS! Not only wasnt I ready to puke anymore but I was becoming a Dalmatian fashion statement to boot!Another cold wintery day, but I got the judge, dog, award, sign AND placement ribbon in this one!

Puppy Battle

2008-09-13T14:06:00.000-07:00

Got'cha! is getting some brandy new teeth coming in and he really likes showing them off. Diggity showed him how nice her choppers are too!

Say Cheese!

Diggity did start to get a bit pissed at the boy.

Dracula

I stick my tongue out at you!

I sit on you... I WIN!!!!

A Day In The Sun

2008-09-09T07:57:00.000-07:00

Auntie Janet came to visit and we all had some time to play in the sun.

Taking a break in the shade. Seven dogs in a sit!

Got'cha! steals the toy and Tease gives him a good chase.

Not long before more join in. Its black and whites chase the merle time!

Run puppy... RUN!

The tongue cracks me up...

Diggity makes a leap to get away from Got'cha! who is relentless. Nice catch Auntie!

Wowwie's favorite game today was herd the puppy.

And he is so handsome doing it :)

This was one of those shots that I almost got.

----------------
One Moment Please...

Have you all noticed Frenzy?

Because everyone should notice Frenzy (in her opinion).

Frenzy aka "Queen Z" and her daughter "Princess Flicker.

The Princess poses...

Diggity reminds you that tom-boys can look sweet and innocent TOO!

And the Court Jester just relaxes in the shade and giggles.

And occasionally he stands still!
------------
Mayhem especially enjoyed the visit. After his afternoon walk he decided that Auntie Janet's food was edible. Which was fine with us!

Kibble... was todays choice of lunch. Im thinking at this point, whatever works!

In todays episode of Doggie Triage...

2008-09-05T12:00:00.000-07:00

Dr Parker please report to the backyard stat.

During the night Mayhem decides to take the rest of his staples out himself (he started this project a few days ago). And now he's annoyed that his mother dresses him funny. Needless to say Im heading out in a bit to buy little boy t-shirts for him.

Yikes! goes outside for this mornings romp and, like the stealth puppy that he is, he mysteriously removed the scab from his nose (in about a split second!)... leaving quite to gaping wound. [sigh]

Thank You Auntie Susan

2008-09-04T14:04:00.000-07:00

For the wonderful get well gift bag.

This particular toy was Hemi's favorite! It made great sounds (barked and panted) and those are Hemi's favorite. He talks back to them!

Got'cha! and the Boys

2008-09-04T12:27:00.000-07:00

Just like his daddy, Got'cha! feels that sticks are for running with.

He's sooo cute!

Wowwie helps Got'cha! out with his jump training.

Im comin' Im comin' Im comin'

He is such a smooth mover.

-------------

The other dogs think this grass stuff is really good tasting...

I'm not really sure if I like it or not.

-------------

A good shot that shows how tall Got'cha! is. Yikes! is 20 5/8

Yikes! has a war wound on his nose... poor buddy.

Wowwie... looking handsome as always.

The vet called...

2008-09-03T06:04:00.000-07:00

Mayhem's pathology report came back... "metastatic carninoma". Prognosis poor. So, we went for an afternoon walk and I grabbed the camera. The lighting wasnt all that great but the dogs didnt care.

Hemi was in a particularly silly mood.

Todays obsession... apples. There are apple trees all over the property. Doberman and deer heaven! A Border Collie would never...

A good Doberman rolling fit is almost as much fun as stealing fallen apples!

This photo is for Gayle and John. I saw the smile and though of you guys.

Every Picture Tells A Story

2008-09-02T10:18:00.000-07:00

However, in these photos, what you see isnt exactly what you get.

Does he look hungry? Because he isnt! He eats just enough to sustain life. Perhaps he's more entertained by watching me try to cook then he is over the meal itself. I have to admit, me in the kitchen is pretty funny.

No... she's not angry... she's "smiling"... which is what she does when you ask her "what did you do?" This is Rush aka Rushmore.

This is Maggie (Kopo from Nickelodeon's "Kick One Pick One)... she's yawning. But she looks SHOCKED dosent she?

Mayhem and Ruffian Go For A Walk (Photos by BMW)

2008-09-02T08:33:00.000-07:00

Mayhem and his "girlfriend" Ruffian went for a walk around the grounds today. Although he isnt eating all that well, he still has a smile on his face!

Ruffian keeps a close eye on "her man"...

But then gives in to the "get wild and scratch your back in the grass" urge! I love her facial expression in this shot. Talk about a happy dog!

Some Random Shots From Last Night

2008-08-29T09:04:00.001-07:00

Its really hard to shoot a photo of a dog who is THIS close to you! (photo by BMW)

As soon as the camera comes out, thats where Hemi is usually. He likes to hear the camera make noise!

A stick makes a nice distraction from the wonderful noise the camera makes. However, Hemi is not supposed to run around and sticks are MADE for running around with. So it was tough to contain the boy.

See what I found? See??!!! Touch it.. seriously try and touch it [hee hee]

What do you mean we have to go inside now? Who set those rules? Just because its getting dark? Just because your exhausted? Im on pain meds baby... lets get this party started!

As you can see... Were dealing with a really food driven dog here

2008-08-29T08:55:00.000-07:00

This morning I got up early to "cook" for Hemi. Now understand, I dont actually ever cook, I prefer to call it "heating" not "cooking" as most of the stuff I would prepare for myself or others comes from a box, can or bag and requires an average of 4 minutes in a microwave :) HOWEVER... for the dog, I get up early and actually "cooked". Scrambled eggs in bowl 1, boiled chicken in bowl 2, and an "out of the container to the bowl meal" of cottage cheese in bowl 3 (hey... I got tired of standing over a stove!). The expression on Hemi's face just about says it all. "Sorry Sister... it just aint working for me this morning."

Within a few hours the buffet was getting more elaborate.

I beleive he is starting to be amused by it all...

------------

On another note:
Pain medication - Working! [giggle... giggle... snort]

and now a brief interuption.... Blue Dog at Green Dog Inn

2008-08-29T07:04:00.000-07:00

Because it was JUST too funny to pass up.

You think this is funny dont you sister. Keep in mind my teeth are sharp and I aim low!

The floor is such a LONG way away. Perhaps I need a better escape plan. Large tub, small dog, covered in blue shampoo that acts like lubricant [help].

For now you laugh. Sleep lightly my friends, sleep lightly. Revenge is mine!

Mayhem... out of surgery

2008-08-28T15:44:00.000-07:00

Almost immediately on the heels of losing Cajun to cancer just a few weeks ago... Mayhem was diagnosed with an anal sac tumor (pathology pending).

He had an ultrasound on Tuesday, surgery yesterday and I got to bring him home this afternoon. He is a bit groggy from the pain medication (that's the patch on his side in the above photo). And hes sporting a "not so cool" hair cut that hes not happy about. But all in all, he's kept his sense of humor.

He isnt eating very well just yet. Tonight I offered him chicken, beef, bison, kibble soaked in homemade broth, and that Fresh Pet stuff that smells aweful but the dogs seem to like it. I lined all the bowls out like a buffet for him... I think he was entertained :) He seemed to like the bison and chicken best but could only manage a small bite of each. Hopefully by tomorrow he will feel more like eating. He cant afford to lose any more weight. Currently he's curled up on a dog bed deep in doggie dreams.

He is so happy to be out of the hospital!

I started this blog to help me get thru Cajun's cancer relapse and subsequent death... who knew I'd be back at it so soon with another traumatic experience with my dogs! Needless to say, the camera is charged and I'll be sending lots of Mayhem (aka Hemi) photos soon.

Got'cha! (photos by Oksana)

2008-08-28T15:39:00.001-07:00

During my breaks at Speedoggie Camp Got'cha! and I played a little.

Still his favorite toy is the one Auntie Gayle bought for his daddy Mayhem!

I expecially like his expression in this shot!

Happy Birthday Banshee!!! (photos by M. O'Brien)

2008-08-07T07:02:00.000-07:00

Yesterday was Banshee's 4th birthday!!

is she not the cutest thing EVER?!?!

The Morning After...

2008-08-05T15:09:00.001-07:00

Frenzy enjoys a morning snuggle with Auntie Janet on the couch before we all have to leave for Speedoggie Camp.

On the other end of the couch however... Mayhem is not happy that the other dogs are so spunky so early in the day (it's 6am)...

Mayhem informs them all what he thinks of mornings!

Death Of A Number Cone

2008-08-05T14:55:00.001-07:00

One of Got'cha!'s favorite pastimes is renumbering my courses... so this is a familiar site in the agility field when he's in it.

Pulling the grass up thru the hole in the number cone is also a great game.

The young hunter, proud of his kill... flaunts it to the pack.. "See! see what I found! This is the best toy in the yard... really it is! Na na na na na"

Suddenly front out of now where... the prize treasure is snatched away by the "Kwazy One"!

And in his customary ritualistic dance, the "Kwazy One" teaches the young Blue Dog a lesson in cone killing

In a last ditch attempt by the young Blue Dog, he tries to make the Kwazy One feel guilty for stealing his treasure...

From the looks of it... the young Blue Dog's attempts to provoke sympathy from the Kwazy One had no effect. I suspect a lesson was learned :)

Schwimmin'

2008-08-05T14:50:00.000-07:00

Yikes! demonstrates how to get the water out of the baby pool.

This is very serious work!

A Lesson In Mathmatics

2008-08-05T14:45:00.000-07:00

This...

+ Plus this..

= Equals This...

Altho he still has many puppy teeth... she seems to enjoy this!

The Winner!

Sometimes They Actually Stand Still

2008-08-05T14:41:00.000-07:00

Flicker (Mayhem x Frenzy)

Frenzy

Torch

Yikes! (Mayhem x Frenzy)

Mayhem

After Camp Doggie Party

2008-08-05T14:06:00.000-07:00

After Speedoggie Camp this weekend, we decided to let the dog's burn off some energy. And of course... I grabbed my camera :)

Mayhem, under my feet as usual... gives his best silly face!

Janet heps get the dogs out from under my feet so I can shoot some thing other then INTENSE close ups :)

Mayhem, Flicker (Mayhem x Frenzy daughter), Frenzy, Wow! (Mayhem x Credit)

Yikes! (Mayhem x Frenzy) and Wow! (Mayhem x Credit) take a dip in the baby pool.

Frenzy and Torch take time out for a "Red Dog" pose.

Mayhem and Yikes! (Mayhem x Frenzy)

Cajun's Rainbow

2008-07-11T13:18:00.000-07:00

Imagine my surprise when I downloaded this photo and saw the rainbow! This was shot 1 month before Cajun went to the Rainbow Bridge. Photo by: BMW

Stardust Gold n' Spicy "Cajun" June 15, 1996 - July 10, 2008

2008-07-10T16:58:00.000-07:00

Some photos of Cajuns last few hours with me.

His last car ride, coming home from hospital (taken with my iphone).

A perfect sunbeam for a perfect boy.

Some more kisses on the nose.

----------

Back at the house

Always a smile for me.

--------------

His last trip outside. It was a beautiful day so we sat in the shade for a few minutes. Photos by: BMW

One more kiss, a huge hug and a bunch of tears before we had to say goodbye.

Until we meet again my precious baby boy. Momma loves you and misses you terribly.

Banshee Babies Rock The House at Speedoggie Skills Camp!

2008-07-07T06:04:00.000-07:00

Left to Right: Jeff & SNAFU (Banshee x Rimshot), Janet & Tease (Banshee x Wow!), Chris & Dig-It! (Banshee x Wow!), Karen & Pink (Banshee x Wow!), Susan & Arie (Banshee x Wow!)

-------------------------

OK... so is this dog NOT the cutest thing you have EVER seen ???

I just dont think I can take all this cuteness!

Got'cha! Ears Done?

2008-07-04T14:52:00.000-07:00

Got'cha! with his new ears :)

Gotta Go! Gotta Run! Gotta Go! Gotta Run!

I shall stalk the stick... then then I will kill it!!!

The deck is base!

Got'cha! - Passed Out Puppy

2008-07-03T13:44:00.000-07:00

After a long morning of supervising his momma teaching agility...

This is the scene under my feet at my computer!

Zzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzz

(however... he sleeps with one eye open! check out the left eye peeking at me)

ps.. Gayle, his nose is almost completely filled in.

Cajun - Last day of Chemo

2008-07-03T13:27:00.001-07:00

Cajun takes time out, on the way to the car for his last chemo appointment, to trample the flowers :)

But he is very cute!

Cajun, Day Two Of Treatment

2008-06-28T18:46:00.001-07:00

Today, the grass smells especially good. It's a good day to be a Golden!

I saw this toy sitting on top of the fence. I found it.. that means its mine! Could you put the damn camera down and get the freakin' toy for me woman?!?!

... it really is a good day to be a Golden!

Ninja Tree Trimmer :)

2008-06-28T18:35:00.001-07:00

Look up there in the tree (he's up there... look really close!)

Smitty... Ninja tree trimmer extraordinaire! The man's a monkey I tell ya!

Cajun, Dig-It! and Got'cha!

2008-06-27T16:29:00.000-07:00

After a very rough night, Cajun was rushed to the vet this morning where they tapped his chest and drained off fluid that was making him uncomfortable. It was also decided that we would start him on chemo again. We were successful the first time around, some 18 months ago. Now this new tumor in his lung is making it hard for him to breath when he is lying down. Chemo seems to be our best shot at this point to shrink it.

The trouble for me is not always knowing if I'm making the right decisions for him. But after watching him attack the baby pool yesterday and splash all the water out of it in a matter of minutes... I decided he had too much life left in him for me to give up on him.

So today, after the chest tap and his first round of chemo, he is a bit tired but he took time out to watch his baby puppies "Dig-It!" and "Got'cha!" play.

Got'cha! thinks everything Cajun does is amazing.

Wild eyes and a BIG smile! - Note the similarity in size of these two dogs. Diggity is 11 months... Got'cha! is 9 weeks!

Wild eyes AND teeth... and a right hook to the head!

Perfect Angels.

This one is for Gayle :)

This one too!!!

The new field is done!

2008-06-27T16:04:00.000-07:00

Heres a photo of the new field for the outdoor Speedoggie Agility Camps!

Some misc photos taken recently

2008-06-26T18:21:00.001-07:00

Wowwie says "Talk to the Paw".

The Diggity Smile

Dig-It! says toes are for biting!

Yikes! sleeping on his toy.

Banshee. Perhaps no one has noticed the massive cuteness thats going on here...

Cajun Swims in Pittsburgh!

2008-06-26T17:34:00.001-07:00

Photos by: BMW