Hi Don,
Thought
you’d enjoy a photo (albeit it a bit fuzzy because she was running) of
Isla’s enthusiasm for the retrieve… the photo shows her shortly after
launching from a “sit” for the retrieve. It’s fun to watch her “load up”
her stride and then extend out as she runs (just don’t stand behind her
unless you want dirt all over your pants as she digs in with her feet
for the first few strides!). If she’s running in sand, there’s usually
about a 6’ spread between where her feet last touched the ground and
where they land for the next stride. She’s very athletic in all terrain
types, including the water… a real joy to watch. She’s holding steady at
57lbs (of muscle) and is super healthy. What I love most about Isla
(besides the bush work, enthusiasm, and fearless approach to all
situations, etc.) is her steadiness. I was reminded of that this
morning… during our morning hike today there was lightning in the sky
above us and a lot of thunder all around us… didn’t matter in the
slightest to Isla… we were practicing “heal” and a few other things and
she didn’t even notice the flashing and the loud bangs. It’s nice to
have a dog that thrives in all situations. Thanks again for such a great
dog!
Bruce
