In preparation for Soldier Hollow and Meeker..(2 extremely difficult dog trials.)
I have been trying to throw as many scenarios at Lane (some to Soot but she's seasoned) as possible!
Just a little prelude on Lane, he was bred by us..sold as a pup and returned at a year old. I couldn't give the dog away, no one believed me he was gonna be great..I finally (after many false attempts by purchasers) said screw it..he's mine! I am so glad I did!!!! Qualified for the open finals this year and nursery finals..I'd say not to shabby for this kid!!
I have hauled sheep, I have worked hills, I have turned back, ( just in case) I have worked lambs, ewes, good sheep, and bad.
Today was no exception to the preparation..it was it..the ultimate test..
#1. Did I make a tactical error entering Lane instead of seasoned Sly?
#2. Have I prepared this young dog as best I can?
#3. Do we have confidence in each other as a team?
This is the field I used to test my (fate) mate!
I drove the sheep by trailer and dropped them on the set with hay out at the brush line. (Fortunately I have great sheep that will just stand and wait) (don't mind the orange snow fence there are trees planted there!)
I drove to the other end..popped Lane out of the truck and sent him.
I was ready for a battle, there is everything to look at here, brush, boulders, arenas, trees, pens, picnic tables...all of that disappeared as Lane sailed perfectly ( maybe 450 yards) behind the sheep. A magical response to every command..I was stunned.
The lesson I learned here is..have CONFIDENCE in him.
Whether we win or loose, whether he's great or so so..I am going to have confidence in him as I know he can do it! He's been a grand dog to train with a grand challenge ahead of him, I need to make sure my attitude about him matches his love for me!
Go Lane Go!
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