The weather on the first group training day of 2012 started out sunny and nice, but as the day wore on, the clouds rolled in and the wind started to blow. By the time we wrapped up it was very cold. Since there was no snow, we ran long marks and some long blinds. We also ran a nice series with a single mark and a blind.
This was a tough combination because the mark and blind were fairly close together. After the mark was thrown, the less advanced dogs picked up it up first before running the blind. That would be Senior level work, (well maybe a bit more difficult than Senior level because the mark and blind were so close together). We are working toward Master level tests so Thunder and Storm both watched the mark fall, but were not sent to pick it up. First they were handled to the blind which required them to run right past that big white bumper sitting out there on the grass. 🙂 They both did very well with the blind and took all casts. Once they picked up the blind, they were then sent for the mark. We were really happy with their work on this series.
~
~
We also ran a difficult single. It was quite long and while the dogs could see the bumper in the air, they could not see the actual fall. Thunder did really well on this. He marked it perfectly. There were some obstacles between him and the mark and he kind of avoided them rather than taking a straight line. We will have to work on this because it will cost points at a Master level test.
~
Thunder’s attitude was great and when it was time to quit for the day, he didn’t want to stop. We are really glad that he got his enthusiasm for training back. We have no idea why it was lagging for a bit. Maybe it was the let down of the end of hunting season, or maybe just a matter of getting into a training routine. Who knows? We are just glad that he seems to be having fun again.
Storm did not have the greatest training day. She was not at all focused, often looking the wrong direction from where the bumpers were being thrown.
~
~
When she did pay attention, her marking was really nice. I guess she was having an off day.
~
~
And finally, we say good-bye to Baxter. Baxter was my sister’s 12 1/2 year old Golden Retriever who went to the Bridge yesterday. Farewell Baxter. Hope your pal Gordie met you at the Bridge. If he did, say “Hi” from us.
I’m so sorry to hear about Baxter; my heart is heavy for his family. It’s such a difficult time.
I’m glad Thunder and Storm did well and that Thunder is back on track. Maybe dogs are like humans in that way – sometimes we just burn out on our usual activities, then something happens to relight the spark of enthusiasm. Both dogs look like they enjoyed their outdoor time! 🙂
Have a great weekend!
I’m so sorry to hear about Baxter, my heart hurts for those he left behind.
Here’s an observation about Thunder (and I’m no expert by any means.) When my mom has had major surgery (thankfully she’s never had bloat, but I wouldn’t put it past her to come up with that!) even though the physical surgery wound has healed, it has taken her a long time (up to a year) to recover completely.
Maybe even though the wound healed and he was feeling better, it just took a bit longer to get back to ‘normal’, I’m not really sure if dogs and humans recover the same way but it was just a thought.
No matter though, I am just glad he is back and interested once again!
Sounds like Thunder and storm did great! Well maybe Thunder a little more than Storm. Maybe she was too busy thinking about the new addition to the family that’s coming. LOL!
I am sorry to hear about your sisters dog Baxter. He sure looked like a sweetie!
Wow, what a smart and well-trained dog! I’m glad his excitement for training is back too.. that’s shows you have a very vivacious dog! I’m also so sorry to hear about Baxter… I’m sure that he’s in a good place now, and lived a good life 🙂 And that’s really all you can do for our furry friends… give them everything you can in this life, and then hope that they have a better one when they pass. Hope all is well!
LizAnn
All4UrPet Representative
http://all4urpet.com/
Check out the App store for Android and iPhone to download our mobile application! Simply search All4UrPet.
Woof! Woof! So sorry to hear about your sister. Baxter lived a long life. For sure you have lots of precious memories you’ll remember Baxter forever.
You are doing great on your first 2012 training. Lots of Golden Woofs, Sugar
Sorry to hear about Baxter – big hugs for everyone…….
I have a feeling Storm was distracted cos she has something on her mind, isn’t today the day the puppy arrives?? Woohoo, I’m all excited – Thunder and Storm must be super excited!!
Have fun,
Your pal Snoopy 🙂
Sorry to hear of Baxter’s passing. What a beautiful boy!
Love seeing pictures of Thunder and Storm training. Their love for the sport is obvious!
AROOOOF!
Boondocks & The Love Shack Pack
Perhaps both Thunder and Storm were having an “off” day like we do sometimes, and as the training progressed, they got right back into it – it looks like they enjoyed it in the end anyway.
Sorry to hear about Baxter, he looks like a fine old boy, he’s got that irresistible look that Golden Retrievers all have!
Sorry to hear about Baxter. Enjoyed the pictures of Thunder and Storm training. Looking forward to the new puppy.
That sure was something! Lots and lots of running!
Lovies, Miss Mindy
I am sorry for your loss, guys. Baxter was beautiful. RIP.
Good Job on training today, Thunder! Storm, where’s your attention? It might just be one of those day! She’ll be fine.
Hi Y’all,
Baxter was a beautiful Golden; I’m sure your sister is heartbroken.
That was a fun day for Thunder. Maybe Storm was just PMSing 😉 😉
Y’all come by now,
Hawk aka BrownDog
Condolences about Baxter, but great photos – you can definitely see Thunder’s enthusiasm!
Also, great new (or old-ish) theme and layout!
It looks like you had a good day on the training field. Sorry to hear about Baxter, he looked like a fine dog. Also, I’m going to be working on blind water entry this spring, so I may be tossing a few questions your way.
Hi!
What a great and informative post. We love learning the many different training procedures are done for the many different breeds. Great post! Our deepest condolences to your sister for Baxter. He was beautiful and the heartbreak she feels right now… well we all know it too well.
God Bless You and Your Sister!
The Collies and Chuck 🙂
We love reading about these training sessions– such dedicated people and dogs and it’s really fun to watch their progress and learn more about this complex training. Thanks for sharing! We love the photos– pups are so pretty 🙂
RIP Baxter! It sounds like he had a wonderful, long life. Sending prayers and comfort to your sister and her family!