Sunday, August 31, 2008

Equine Second Chance

Heritage Day yesterday was fantastic. Crafts, music ,food. We set up under the big trees along the river. I met the above group that had ponies and horses to give the children rides. When I was a teen I nearly lived on horseback. Rode 2 miles to my friends then we went out to ride for 4-5 hours. Yesderday I met the above group. They take abused horses or horses owners can not care for anymore. I met Chief, a pretty paint with a sweet disposition. He tangled in barbed wire and hundreds of dollars was needed to repair him. Owners turned him in because they couldn't afford vet bills. Second Chance has 60 horses. I plan to visit them soon as they are not far from home. I may, even tho it's been 20 years since I sat on a horse, go on a trail ride with them. My passion for dogs equals that for horses.

I am pleased that my donation of a few of my books, helped a Keeshond (national dog of Holland)rescue group to raise money for much the same purpose as Second Chance. We owned Keeshond for nearly 20 years.

Saturday, August 23, 2008

Book Signing Valley River Humane Shelter

My book, My Dogs, My Friends has been well received. I will be signing my book on Septemeber 15 at the shelter's thrift shop. A portion from the sale of books will go to the shelter. This is a special day as all winter clothing will be on sale. I hope to see you all there.

Friday, August 22, 2008

Show Ring Handling Graduates

Monday night was our last class for my students to handle their dogs in the show ring. I saw great improvement and confidence in the five of them. Little Sandy, a mini long haired dacshund who shied away from all of us giants, on his fifth night he boldly trotted right up to me, the judge. The clumber party, three of them, could not be sweeter. I'd never been close to this breed before and I was pleased to have the opportunity to learn more about them. Warren said that years ago he had hunted over Clumbers. Lynne's flat coat, a happy teen shows no hesitation in the ring. Andi's standard poodle puppy showed everyone what it means to be "poodly"...spirited yet mannerly. I wish them much success in the upcoming shows.