Updates...

It has been quite awhile since I have written anything here and so I thought it time to update everyone on what we've been doing.

We have had an eventful year with the arrival of Aplgrth Magus, call name Merlin, a tri color Border Collie boy bred by Anna Smyth in CT. From excellent working lines, he joined us on Memorial Day and is a wonderful addition to the pack and family. He is now 9.5 months old, all legs and teenage attitude, but an absolute joy. We can't wait to see where our journey goes with this sweet boy. He is starting his agility training and has had some fun in barn hunt already with a novice leg at 8 months of age.

Merlin

Seeker had an amazing year, finishing his ASCA ATCH2, his USDAA Silver ADCH, a bunch of other agility titles as well as competing at his 3rd USDAA Cynosport World Competition. He made it into PGP Semi-finals and although we didn't make it to the big dance, I was so proud of his performance. He also ventured into Barn Hunt where he achieved his RATI and RATN.

Gem continues to fight her demons and we are making progress. She is a wonderful girl who marches to her own drummer and that's okay. We didn't get to do any coursing last year, but we hope to this year.

Ceilidh is still Ceilidh. She loves to be sassy and bossy. She enjoys barn hunt, but it no longer able to compete, so I take her to matches instead. The spondylosis in her spine will not allow her to make the 90 degree turns in the tunnels so I play with her in Novice where she can take a straight tunnel. I wish the powers that be in barn hunt make some consideration for the old dogs or dogs with physical issues. Many people with older dogs have found a great retirement sport in this. Some of us, with dogs like Ceilidh, have to stop playing because it just isn't safe for them to climb 3 or 4 bales high. Fingers crossed...

As for us, we continue to plug along. 2015 was a fair sight kinder to us than 2014. We are just happy to put our feet on the floor each morning. So happy 2016 to all!!

Introducing... Merlin!!

On Memorial Day 2015, we welcomed a new soul into our lives... Merlin is formally known as Aplgrth Magus. He was bred by Anna Smyth of CT and is out of her awesome Lily and Beverly Lambert's fantastic Open trial dog Joe.

We have big plans for this young man. He is funny, independent, outgoing, silly and crazy smart. The journey begins...

Seeker...

Seeker has been awesome in the agility ring as of late. He finished his USDAA Lifetime Achievement Award in September. He is completely qualified for Cynosport 2015 with the Qs he earned last weekend. He was dropped to Performance in September, so he's qualified at P20" for Cynosport. He earned both PVP team Qs with a 3rd and a 1st. He has 2 Performance Speed Jumping and 2 Performance Grand Prix Qs. All of those with placements as well. I have the room to breathe. We still have the extras of  Performance Biathlon to get if we so choose, but we'll see. I'm not doing much training of him now. I keep him conditioned with other activities and he hasn't been in an agility class for several years. What we know, we know. I'm not WT material, not at my age. I'm just happy playing with my dogs. I still have some goals for Seeker and I to achieve, like his Silver ADCH and his PDCH. I couldn't ask for a more rock solid partner than this boy. I am blessed...

The list... 2015

With 2014 being such a tough year, many of my goals went unaccomplished, but some were completed. I never thought a year later Piper would be gone. Never... Many of the goals from 2014 involved him and were left not completed after he got sick and we lost him so quickly. Seeker did great when I was able to trial him completing most of my goals for him. Ceilidh delved into a whole new endeavor and Gem got to run fast and chase the bunnies. So here we go with 2015's list, in no particular order...

1. Get Seeker out on sheep more often. It is good for both of us.

2. Finish Seeker's ATCH 2. We are very close to doing so.

3. Do more Barn Hunt with Ceilidh and do some fun Nose Work training with her too.

4. Continue training Gem in agility and other activities on her terms.

5. Keep working on Gem's CAT levels because she loves it.

6. Get a new puppy.

7. Go to Cynosport 2015 and do our best, but most of all have FUN!

8. Finish Seeker's Silver ADCH.

9. Get that last 20 lbs. off by actually going to Yoga and Zumba classes.

10. Reduce my stress and achieve my goals of moving forward from where I am now.

11. Spend more quality time with Bob and the dogs and look forward to our beach trip!

Every year is full of challenges... but how you overcome those challenges is what makes the difference. Peace, love and prosperity to all in 2015!

Ceilidh, Seeker and Gem - Christmas 2014

Reflections 2014...

To say that this year has been challenging, would be the understatement of the century. To say that it was all bad, would be untrue. Despite the really bad things that happened, the dogs were stellar, completing goals that I set for us. The dogs are always amazing and competing with them is an honor and a privilege.

The year began with polar vortexes, snow, cold, a case of frost nipped fingertips for me and a flood which resulted in Bob's first of 3 hospitalizations this year. We also suffered through a wrecking crew of waterproofers which just did about as much damage as the flood did. However, we survived and with the help of my brother-in-law Joe, got things set to rights.

February brought a bright spot with Piper completing his CPE C-ATCH with the last 2 Colors Qs he needed. This was his 5th agility championship and he completed it on my nephew Jason's birthday. I'm sure we had a few angels guiding us that day.

In April, Ceilidh got her first taste of Barn Hunt and loved it! Not a surprise really. 

Also in April, Piper did a very special therapy dog visit right after his 11th birthday. We were part of the teams that went to Franklin Regional High School after the stabbings. He was amazing as always and I was SO proud of him.

In May, Seeker gave me a Mother's Day present by finishing his USDAA Bronze ADCH. He also completed his Jumpers Silver and Bronze Relay titles that weekend too. Gem got to run in her first Coursing Ability Tests and came away with 2 Qs towards her first level title.

June came with Piper having nasal discharge and sneezing, but he was otherwise feeling great as he ran in a CPE trial. It was to be his last trial weekend ever. Seeker continued to garner Qs for his CPE C-ATCH and work on his USDAA LAA Bronze.

July was the worst... Piper suffered a severe bout of pancreatitis and had to be taken to the emergency vet on July 4th. On July 10th, my awesome brother-in-law Joe, was killed in a motorcycle accident when someone in an SUV pulled out in front of him from a side road. He never had a chance. He was doing everything right, helmet, headlight, within the speed limit, but the driver's moment of stupidity, inattentiveness, or whatever, cost Joe his life. Ours will never be the same. My sister dealt with her wedding anniversary the day after we buried Joe. A week after that, she had to cope with the 4 year anniversary of the loss of her son and my oldest nephew Jason. My sister is the strongest person I know.

 Fifteen days later, on July 25th... Piper was diagnosed with an aggressive nasal tumor. I hoped for months, but it was not to be. We lost him 2 days later on July 27th. The cancer had advanced quickly and has destroyed the crib form plate and part of his right eye socket. His pain was probably off the charts, but he gave me the gift of one more day which was filled with frozen yogurt with whipped cream and sprinkles, a trip to see Daddy at work, ball playing and snuggles. He died in my arms the next day with the help of our wonderful vet. My heart is still in pieces...

In August, Seeker finished his CPE C-ATCH with the last 2 Standard Qs we needed. I was so emotional and was barely able to complete his runs. This was Seeker's 5th agility title also. We also did some USDAA, still working on his LAA Bronze. My awesome friends pulled together and helped me raise enough money to pay off Piper's medical bills and make a donation to a BC rescue. I can never thank them enough.

September came with the Highland Games. This was the first year I had gone alone with the dogs and it was difficult. I retired Piper there in 2013 from his freestyle demos, but I had to carry on. Seeker stunned me with 2 very nice routines off the cuff and Gem held it together to show off some of her skills as well. Seeker was back in the agility ring at the end of the month earning some of his Qs towards his qualification for Cynosport 2015. Ceilidh earned her RATI and one leg towards her RATN with a 2nd place in Barn Hunt too.

Gem finished her CA and earned a leg towards her next level in November. She really loves this game! Chasing the bunny is her thing for sure. She continues to train in agility with no real aspirations for competition. I'm glad she enjoys the training and maybe some day, she'll decide that the ring isn't a scary place any longer. Seeker qualified for Cynosport 2015 in Performance and earned his P3 Jumpers title.

December was Ceilidh's turn again with Barn Hunt. We had hoped to go in November, but her lameness kept us from making a trip to the competition. With some acupuncture on board and a change in herbs, she made it through this weekend and earned her RATN (novice) title with 2 first place ribbons. I moved her up to Open, but she wasn't quite ready for the challenges the extra tubes and rats presented. 

This year has been one of if it didn't kill me, it made me stronger. After this year, I know who my friends are and who were just pretending. I know that time lost is gone forever. I know that I will tell those that I love that I love them every day because life can change in an instant. Onward to 2015...

And life goes on...

Piper's passing has left a very large hole in our hearts and lives. He was still fairly active and as of the beginning of June, he was still running agility with joy and abandon. Moving forward has been difficult for all of us. Participating in the activities that he so enjoyed has been painful at times. Piper would want us to go on without him.

Finishing Seeker's CPE C-ATCH was much more emotional than I ever anticipated. We went into the weekend needing 2 Level 5 Standard Qs. We got one on Saturday, which wasn't pretty and I could feel my heart break with every step. On Sunday, Seeker was running well and I knew we could do this. What I didn't anticipate was how hard it would really be. The further into the course we got, the heavier my heart became and the more I just wanted to stop running. Seeker isn't Piper. We are on our own journey. He deserved for me to finish the course and this championship. So I did... That was Seeker's 5th agility championship as was Piper's when he completed his earlier in the year. Despite this milestone, I didn't feel like celebrating.

On September 20th, we did something else without Piper. We went to the Ligonier Highland Games. We have been part of the Scottish breed exhibit almost from the beginning. I brought freestyle there with Duncan, many, many years ago. Piper took over after Duncan retired and ultimately passed from cancer. I retired Piper from the Games in 2013. His enjoyment of doing his demos had waned and we had planned to leave both he and Ceilidh home in 2014. Things change... Gem has very little freestyle training. Seeker has virtually none. They both made me so proud when they stepped up and danced with me. My heart wasn't in it. I wanted to cry, but watching how they both laid it on the line for me, pushed me through. They kept the legacy of Duncan and Piper beautifully alive. I couldn't have asked for more.

Two weekends ago, Seeker finished his USDAA Lifetime Achievement Award - Bronze (150 Qs). Piper finished his in June 2013 and was retired from USDAA in November 2013. Seeker still has a stellar career left to run in Performance. I am halfway to qualifying him for Cynosport 2015 in TN. He is healthy, fit and loving being the only dog I am running in agility now. We are back to having fun and focusing on the future again.

So yes, even though Piper is no longer with us, life goes on. We take each day as they come. He would want it that way...

Piper and his LAA Bronze plaque

For the love of Piper...

Piper is gone. Those three words are very difficult for me to write or say. He was helped to the Bridge by my wonderful vet on Sunday, July 27, 2014. My concession is that he is no longer in pain and that he went peacefully and gently while held in my arms. Cancer... oh how I hate that word and disease, took him from us much too soon.

He had a nasal tumor that took his life quickly. He was a "fire" in the Chinese elements. In true fire fashion, there was no lingering illness. Fires spark forth, burn brightly and are extinguished quickly. Piper burned brightly. He was my rock star and enjoyed every minute of every day of his too short life.

My heart has been ripped from my chest. This dog took me places that I never dreamed possible. It is because of him that I do agility and enjoy it. He didn't just like the game, he LOVED it. Agility was his passion... run fast, take chances, rock on! It will never, ever be the same for me again.

Piper and I earned over 100 performance titles in agility, rally, obedience, canine freestyle and herding. We were partners and teammates. He gave me 100% every single time we stepped in a ring or on a field. His zest for life was irrepressible. His smile, body and tail wag and his singing "woo woo" were his trade marks. Life was GOOD every single day of his life. What he will be remembered for are these things and how he touched everyone's lives that he met.

As a therapy dog, Piper was THE best. He loved everyone and greeted them with his trademark singing and kisses. Like Kastle, people who didn't even like dogs were drawn to him. He especially loved the ladies, both old and young and strollers with babies were also favorites. The therapy work done at Franklin Regional High School earned him recognition, bringing the importance of therapy dogs to the forefront. He loved to dance to big band music at local nursing homes and at Christmastime, we danced to carols as the residents sang along. A dog that had so much drive and focus on an agility course COULD be quiet and calm enough to do therapy work. He loved to be the center of attention, to make people smile and laugh and to get petted and give kisses.

I was blessed to be able to share him with others. He wouldn't have had it any other way. This sentient being was meant to be shared. His love for life, his golden heart and his infectious grin were not meant for us to keep to ourselves. He was a show off and loved applause. Piper was such a character. We are all so much better for having known him.

Piper earned 5 agility championships in his career. He was my first real agility dog. I had no idea what I was doing, but I knew that he loved this crazy sport. We learned, had fun, failed and succeeded together as a team. He was fast, wild and reckless. I had no idea how to handle him. I am blessed that he loved me enough to not advertise on Craig's list for a new handler.

I miss him more than words can say. I miss his cuddling with me every day of his life. I miss his kisses. I miss his "woo woo" when I come home from work. I miss him sitting in his chair at agility trials. I miss him hoarding toys and chewies under the end table. I miss running him in agility. I miss dancing with him. I miss doing therapy work with him. I miss him following me around the house. I miss playing ball with him. I just miss HIM and always will.

Each day brings a little more comfort and less pain. I'm trying to remember and focus on the millions of wonderful memories he gave to me. I also remember his last Saturday, when he gave me that elusive "one more day" that many never get to experience. He loved going to Sweet Frog for frozen yogurt and this time he got whipped cream and sprinkles too. We got to visit his Daddy at work and play with his lambie with all of Daddy's co-workers and steal a ball of yarn from the supervisor and carry it around the room like a prize. Then he came home and played with my cousin's 2 children, who had known Piper all of their lives. Even with all the fantastic journeys we've had over the years, THIS was his best day EVER...

I know he wouldn't want us to cry and be sad. He would want us to celebrate his life and remember all the fun times. I'm trying to do that, but it would be easier if he were still here with us. RIP sweet man... I will always love you.

Our grateful thank yous go to the loving care of Piper provided by Dr. Alexandra Konegger, Dr. Craig Hill and Dr. Daniel Halden and staff from KVet Animal Care, Dr. Fiona Tam and Dr. Amanda Crabtree and staff from Avets - Allegheny Veterinary Emergency Trauma & Specialty, Nancy Craig - Pawsitive Energy and Kim Bennett - Stablemate Massage LLC.

We also want to thank Piper's breeder, Cheryl Jagger Williams for allowing us the opportunity to have Piper in our lives. He was a gift from heaven and our lives are the richer for having him in it.

We also want to thank everyone that donated and bid at the auction and contributed to Piper's medical bills with their donations. It truly showed us just how loved he really was by everyone. We are so grateful for everyone's generosity.

"If there are no dogs in Heaven, then when I die I want to go where they went..." Will Rogers

Endings... and new beginnings...

It is never easy to watch a dream die. Dreams are what keep us moving forward, reaching and striving for the stars. Sometimes, dreams die despite our best efforts. It isn't the first time for me and I'm sure it won't be the last.

At the age of 3, one of Seeker's daughters has died from a rare, aggressive type of lymphoma. Inga Binga was a sweet, lively girl, reminiscent of her Dad. She had been sick, very sick, last year, diagnosed with a fungal infection. Unfortunately, this diagnosis was probably incorrect. She became sick again a few weeks ago and when some lumps were found and aspirated, the horrible diagnosis of cancer was made. Inga was sick, having difficulty breathing, not eating and lethargic. Her owners, Jean and Steve did everything in their power to make Inga better. The high doses of steroids she was given last year put her into remission, unknown to everyone until now. My heart is breaking for Jean and Steve. Three year old dogs should have a bright future ahead of them. Inga did... A fast, focused agility dog in training, she was a shining star in the making. Now, she has gone to the Bridge. It just isn't fair.

Inga 

After much soul searching, I've decided to not breed Seeker again. My dream of having one of his awesome puppies has died along with Inga. Yes, I know cancer can be random and there is no proof that her lymphoma was genetically based or even came from him. But unless there comes a time when there is a genetic test available to screen for cancer, he won't be bred again. He will be neutered as planned in September and our lives will go on.

Although this dream has ended, I will focus on the future. Not now, but in a few years, I will be looking for another potential puppy to carry on as Applegarth's stud dog. Right now, it is time to focus on the here and now... 11 year old Piper, 9.5 year old Ceilidh, 7.5 year old Seeker and 3 year old Gem. The end of a dream only serves to allow other dreams to be pursued which is exactly what I plan to do.

So love and hug everyone in your life that are important, both human and canine, because it can all change in a second...

The maturation of Gem...

Gem has been a bit of a puzzle to me. Very soft, very sensitive, very immature, very worried about life even though I thought I had thoroughly socialized her and gave her tons of great experiences. Our journey has been strife with issues, including trust of me on Gem's part She was chased down by a dog at one time during an agility session and that is when I started seeing her become anxious and worried. It then spilled over to other parts of our life. Although not injured by this incident, Gem stopped trusting my ability to protect her. She became reactive and concerned over things that she was once comfortable. I feel as though I have let her down too.

Her worries escalated last Fall when she ran out of an agility ring and tried to get out of the building. She loves training, mostly anything, but her sensitivities keep her from being able to trial. I have all but given up on the dream of doing agility competitively with her. Instead, we have played at other things, like freestyle, barn hunt, nosework and lure coursing. Gem's worries have been detrimental to her herding, her insecurity keeping her from moving beyond diving in and grabbing sheep.

Gem turned 3 in February 2014. It wasn't a magic age where she matured overnight. She is still silly, immature, sensitive and soft. But what I am starting to see is a new courage and bravery. Something as simple as her jumping on the grooming table to be brushed out only very recently happened. She could be a very late bloomer and a glimmer of hope that she may eventually be comfortable in an agility ring or any competition for that matter still exists for me.

The photo below is a confident, focused Gem doing a lure coursing ability test. Chasing a lure over 600 yards requires focus, stamina, speed and a level of maturity that I am thrilled that she is beginning to show. She earned two Qs and needs one more to finish her AKC CAT. I think this is only the beginning for us as a team.

 

Listening and reading Gem are THE most important things for me. Taking things at her pace and letting her know that I do have her back and that she can trust me to do what is right for her. The smile and happiness on her face in the photo says it all to me. I am looking forward to the journey more and more every day.

Another milestone...

Seeker earned his USDAA Bronze ADCH this past weekend. He also earned his Masters Silver Snooker Championship and his Masters Bronze Relay Pairs Championship as well. These go along with his Masters Silver Jumpers Championship too. He has far surpassed my hopes and dreams for our agility career. At 7 1/2 years of age, he is just really coming into his own. He is athletic, conditioned, talented and handsome to boot! Nah, I'm not biased or anything. He is everything I ever wanted.

People have discounted him as an agility dog for many reasons. Ignore the naysayers. There will always be haters. I think we have proven that we have what it takes to get the job done. He's earned his MACH, ADCH, ADCH-B and his ATCH. He's qualified for Nationals several times. He isn't the fastest, but he is consistent, honest and runs with his heart every time we step to the line. All this and he's sweet and damn handsome too... Oh yes and he can do what a Border Collie was bred to do. Yep, he's the complete package for me. Thank you Seeker for always giving me your best. I am humbled by you and very blessed to have you in my life. On to ADCH Silver and beyond!!!

Bronze ADCH Seeker and his loot

C-ATCH me if you can!!!

Piper finished his CPE C-ATCH last weekend with a 1st place in Colors! This was his 5th agility championship and 7th performance championship overall. He has 2 in canine freestyle also. Piper has earned agility championships in AKC, 2 in USDAA, ASCA and now CPE. He is such a competitor and LOVES the game of agility. He can now rest on his laurels as we have completed the last of the goals that I set forth for us. He does nothing halfway and agility is his first love. It always has been since the very first time we stepped to the line.

Piper by Louis Ruediger

 

We will continue to play until it isn't any longer in his best physical interest to do so. I honestly think he'd die if I completely stopped doing agility with him. What I like about CPE is that I still have one more jump height to put him in. I have to work him at 12" to see how he will handle it before I enter him in a trial at that height. He isn't really having issues at 16" on the whole. Sometimes he misjudges a jump and the bar comes down, but that isn't a very common occurrence. Even though he isn't having problems, should I keep him at 16" becomes the question. He will be 11 in April. Many dogs have retired by this point, but not Piper. He receives regular massage, chiropractic and acupuncture. No, he isn't spoiled. He is an athlete and at this time in his life, a senior citizen athlete. He deserves the very best care I can afford for him. I do know that he can't do 10 runs in a weekend any longer. That amount is too many and leaves him sore. It isn't about the titles or placements. It is about making him happy and letting him enjoy his favorite activity.

I have slowly retired him from one  agility venue at a time. First AKC, then USDAA... He is still running in ASCA, but that height is still 16" for Veterans class and that will probably stop soon too. He still has CPE to play in and I plan to keep him active by returning to rally obedience with him. He needs 6 or 7 legs for his AKC RAE. I also plan to try some Cynosport rally too. His best buddy, another BC named Sputnik aka Beep, is closing in on his ASCA ATCH. The boys will share a retirement party with their best friends later this year and WHAT a party it will be!!

I am truly blessed to have been chosen by Piper. He came into my life in a whirlwind and I don't expect him to someday leave it any other way. Until then, we will enjoy our days together, just being... How lucky am I?

The List... 2014

2013 was a pretty good year for us here. Some of my list goals were met, while others were put aside or not accomplished for various reasons. I did complete many of the goals that were important to me. Finishing Seeker's MACH and Piper's LAA Bronze, as well as Cynosport 2013, were the major ones. I need to try harder to accomplish everything on my list this year. Here we go... in no particular order...

1. Finish C-ATCHs on both boys.

2. Finish Seeker's MACH 2.

3. Finish Seeker's Bronze ADCH and LAA Bronze.

4. Finish ATCH II on both boys.

5. Work on Piper's RAE and Seeker's RA and RE.

6. Go to the BCSA National Specialty.

7. Do more nosework with Ceilidh.

8. Have Seeker ready and trialing on sheep by June, if not sooner. Attend a few sheep clinics.

9. Work with Gem on her terms, help her to learn to be more comfortable in her own skin.

10. Grow my training business because I AM an EXCELLENT instructor and I have so much to offer owners and their dogs.

11. Get more active, work on my flexibility and speed, work on bettering my nutrition and lose 30 pounds.

12. Learn to reduce my high stress levels because it is slowly killing me.

13. Spend more time individually with each dog.

14. Finally get MY Seeker puppy.

15. Spend more time enjoying the simple things by slowing down.

I also plan on spending more quality time with my hubby, doing things he likes, rather than always dragging him to my dog stuff. Good thing he loves me anyway.

I hope that your 2014 brings you all the peace, love and prosperity that you wish! Happy New Year and best wishes in 2014 in all that you do!!

Clan Applegarth by Barbara Blanchfield

Testing, testing, 1...2...3...

Seeker has been tested for many health problems that can occur in Border Collies. Recently, I tested him for Trapped Neutrophil Syndrome (TNS). I really didn't expect anything other than a normal result as the working lines haven't been known to carry this. Well, I was very surprised that Seeker came back as a carrier for TNS when I had him tested by UC Davis. What does this mean? Well, it really only means that he must be bred to normal bitches. He isn't affected. He is a carrier. This knowledge is vital in making important choices for him and the breed. I have also sent his blood to OptiGen to verify the UC Davis results as their test was a cheek swab. I also tested him for Neuronal Ceroid Lipofuscinosis (CL) as well. The OptiGen results verified the UC Davis results for TNS. Seeker is indeed a carrier. He is, however, normal for CL. His sire's DNA was kept at OptiGen and he was tested even though he is no longer alive. He was found to be normal for both CL and TNS. His litter mate and full brother from the repeat of this cross were also found to be TNS carriers, but normal for CL. These results truly bring to light that working lines CAN carry TNS, even though there has been no widespread awareness of affected dogs.

It is vital that ALL breeders of Border Collies from ALL areas test their breeding dogs. Whether from the working, performance/sport, show or pet communities, if you are planning on breeding your Border Collie, testing for genetic diseases should be done. The testing is available for several different genetic diseases including CL and TNS. I utilize them because I believe that testing is an important part of my breeding program.

Some breeders feel that culling the carriers from their breeding program is the right thing to do. I do not believe this.  A carrier bred to a normal will NEVER produce affecteds. They will produce a mix of normal and carriers. Owners of carriers wishing to breed their dogs need to REQUIRE testing from the potential mate. It only makes excellent sense for the breed to do so. Carriers must only be bred to normals and puppies could ideally be tested before leaving the breeder so that their status can be discovered. Yes, it is expensive to run these tests, but it is more expensive to NOT do them before those puppies go to their new lives.

TNS and CL are FATAL for puppies. Here are descriptions of these diseases directly from the OptiGen website:

"Neuronal ceroid lipofuscinosis is a type of lysosomal storage disorder that results in accumulation of lysosomal storage bodies in the cells of many tissues of the affected animal. This leads to progressive neurodegeneration (degeneration of brain and eye cells) and results in severe neurological impairment and early death. Affected dogs appear normal at birth, but begin to exhibit symptoms early in life – around 1- 2 years of age. The age of onset and severity of the disease can vary greatly among individuals. The symptoms include progressive motor decline with seizures and loss of coordinated muscle movements, cognitive decline and abnormal behavior. Visual impairment may occur. Due to the severity of the disease, affected Border Collies rarely survive beyond 26-28 months. There is no treatment or cure at this time."

"Trapped Neutrophil Syndrome (TNS) is an inherited disease that affects a dog's immune system and is marked by an inability to effectively combat infections. Clinical symptoms of dogs affected by TNS vary, depending on the nature of the pathogen involved."

 As the caretaker of the Border Collies, breeders must be cognizant of the diseases which plague this wonderful breed. There are other genetic diseases that are still being investigated and researched including Adult Onset Deafness  , Epilepsy and Border Collie Collapse Syndrome. They are drawing closer to developing a test for AOD, but Epilepsy is still elusive and complex. As medical research progresses, so does the opportunities to develop tests to keep this breed healthy and doing what it is meant to be... the world's premiere stockdog.

Seeker by Megan Quigley

The Big Show... part 2

The Tennessee Miller Coliseum and surrounding property was a beautiful back drop for the 2013 Cynosport World Games. The 5 rings were inside, 3 in climate control, 2 without. Who would think that we would get 20 degree temps in Tennessee in October? We had 50-60 degree days and a few nights in the 20s. Made those crack of early walk thrus a bit challenging. All in all, it was a good experience. There were a few negatives, including the lack of security around the crating areas and getting in to the exhibitor areas. Sometimes they checked for wristbands. Most times they did not. The stalls were cold and the boys spent most of the time in the van, where it was warm. Even with BOT coats and Foggy Mountain coats, the mornings were too cold for even those two hairballs in the stall. The good thing was that parking was decently close so working from the van was doable.

I was fortunate that I spent most of my runs in the climate controlled rings, but I did have several runs in the ice box/rain forest. It was very cold and with that came frost, which melted and dripped onto everyone and everything in those rings as the day warmed. Red mud puddles were everywhere, including in the rings. The dirt along the edges was also softer and deeper which caused problems for some of the dogs. All in all though, the rings were well maintained, dragged each night by tractors, and SO much better than Kentucky in 2010. However, with the amount of entries, 6 rings were needed as the days were very long with walking before 7am for some and not running until after 6pm. I was lucky. My longest day was walking before 7am and running around 4pm or so. I think that it is time for USDAA to limit entries, requiring that anyone attending has to qualify in everything... Grand Prix, Steeplechase, Biathlon and Team. If they can't have another ring, at least at this site, then something needs to be done. Not many felt like staying to watch the evenings festivities when they had been up since 4am. We did enjoy the on-site dinners though. They were good, filling and fun with live bands the nights they were offered. Of course, Piper and I had a blast dancing to Orange Blossom Special before Performance Grand Prix finals.

On to the boys... Well, warm-ups started out well with both of them. Piper missed his weave poles, but still managed to run well enough to earn us a free month on USDAA's Data Services. Seeker ran clean, but not fast enough in the HUGE 22" class to earn anything. Seeker's Grand Prix and Steeplechase quarterfinals runs were a disaster. He missed a jump in GP, then blew the A-frame. In Steeplechase, he blew the A-frame again. I think the 5'9" height was bothering his leg, because missing the contact is very uncharacteristic of him. He ran Team Jumpers cleanly, but again, not fast enough to make the cut-off. He also managed 47 points in Team Snooker, just missing 7 on the closing. Gamblers didn't go as well, but he put points on the board, 30 to be exact, but again he blew his A-frame and dropped a bar in the gamble, ending his time. In Team Standard, he ran cleanly again, but well off the times of the top dogs. I enforced his A-frame and he did an awesome job with the entire run. I am proud of his Master Challenge Jumpers run, even though we didn't Q, he gave me some nice work. The mistakes were mine, except the dropped bar, but he tried and listened very well. We didn't stay for Master Challenge Standard on Sunday, as you needed to Q in both for Biathlon.

Piper... what can I say. He put up a 1st place score in 16" Veterans Gamblers earning a rosette. In Snooker, I had a momentary stupid moment and cost us 1st place there. He was the only Vet to attempt 4 reds and we HAD it, but I sent him over a wrong jump to end our turn with only 27 points. In Jumpers, we imploded. The course was ridiculously unfair, in my opinion, and there were MANY Es for the Vets and Performance dogs. Piper missed his weave entrance, then got worried. I had to seriously micromanage another part of the course which worried him more, and he just lost connection with me for an off-course and an E after that. One mistake that we couldn't afford as the scores for the 16" Vets were very tight. We did have a beautiful Standard run, earning another 1st place rosette. Unfortunately, the mistakes I made cost us getting into the Showcase. The dogs that were slower made it in and although I was happy for them, I wished we had made it there. Piper deserved it, even if I didn't.

It was a LONG week. Every time I attend one of these events, many lessons hit home with me. The folks that are the most competitive and do all the winning are mostly those that do this for a living as instructors/owners of their own schools, etc. I don't have equipment other than a few jumps and weave poles. I don't have the room for more. I have a job which sorely cuts into my training and trialing time. I have to drive somewhere to do any serious training. I am far from perfect as a handler, but I am proud of the progress I have made. I will never be on the World Team. I don't always handle pressure as well as I wish I could. However, the one thing I do know is that my dogs will always leave the ring happy and that they don't really care about ribbons or titles. They only want to spend time with me. There is only the pressure I put on myself that takes the fun out of this game. I've gotten better at letting things go and seeing this for what it is... a game. I don't make my living at it, although I wish I could. I am an average handler with GREAT dogs, in my eyes if no other. All that really matters is that we have FUN, spending time together doing something that makes us happy. As cliché as it sounds, it really IS all about the journey. Where will yours take you and your best friend?

The Big Show... part 1

Soon we are leaving to attend and compete at the 2013 Cynosport World Games which is the USDAA's Nationals. It isn't just a National, it is a sort of International with competitors from Hungary, Japan, Puerto Rico and Mexico as well as the USA. This is the 3rd time that the boys have qualified to go. This is the 2nd time we are going. Seeker is on a team and we are also trying to get past quarterfinals in Grand Prix and Steeplechase. He is also in the Biathlon, which consists of Master Challenge Jumpers and Master Challenge Standard. Realistically, Seeker probably won't make it into the semis in anything. He is consistent, but not fast. He is still nursing a collateral ligament injury to his left rear leg. No delusions of grandeur for us in team, but I am looking forward to having some fun and running with my teammates.

 Piper is competing in the Veterans All Around. He does the team classes at his Veterans height. We are competing for a shot at the Veterans Showcase, where they take the top 3 dogs from each Veterans jump height. There are 7 Veterans in Piper's 16" class. My hopes are high that we can make it into the Showcase. He is coming off a pulled right illiapsoas. In truth, it isn't up to him as much as me and whether or not I can hold it together, be where I need to be and support him. He is a very honest dog. He does what I tell him to do. It's all on me. Gulp...

If I could have, I would bubble wrap them both until we leave. I pulled them from multiple trials due to the injuries. I jokingly DID wrap them in bubble wrap for a photo op. They were not amused. I did  release them from house arrest a few days ago and did let them run agility. They were both higher than a kite, but they did well. I, on the other hand, sucked. Not having run agility for several weeks has taken a toll on my timing. I am glad that we have a warm-up run at Cynosport.

This is a HUGE trial... 800 exhibitors, 1100 dogs, with around 9000 runs over 5 days. I believe they said that is the highest attended in the history of the event. It will be a LONG week. Some of my walk thrus are at the crack of early and the run times are hours later. I will spend a great deal of time watching the ring, remembering what I walked before we get our turn. It is nerve-wracking and even though I've done it before, it still worries me. Gingko Biloba anyone??

This is the last National competition for the boys most likely. We are planning on making it memorable and having a blast. I am looking forward to seeing some of the best dogs in the world running agility. What could be better than spending time doing what you love to do with the most wonderful creatures in the world? I love my dogs to the moon and back.

My goals for this competition? For both boys, NO Es!! I want to be able to put up a score in each round. I would like to get Seeker into semifinals for both Steeplechase and Grand Prix. There is a very slim chance of that given the caliber of dogs in the 22" class. I would also like to make it through his Master Challenge rounds cleanly and under time for biathlon. So my advice to myself with both boys is JUST RUN! The other advice is to always remember that it's ALL about stepping to the line with my boys, not crossing over it victorious over others...

Seeker by Tien Tran

More later...

Meltdowns... and where to go from here...

This is the second weekend that Gem has had a major meltdown doing agility. It happened a few weeks ago at a USDAA trial and it happened again today at an ASCA trial. My goals have been simple for her... keep her happy, in the ring and do a few things she know how to do in a competition environment. Her debut in a few weeks ago in CPE was awesome. She was happy, even qualified a few runs in Level 1 and seemed to really enjoy herself. It encouraged me enough to put her in a few classes at a local USDAA trial. She had a meltdown in the gamblers ring, startled at the bar setters and judge, tucked her tail and laid back her ears. She didn't get much better the next day.

We are still in class and she seems to be fine there, working happily and enjoying herself. Today, I put her into an ASCA trial in Novice. She completely fell apart. She was stressed and worried. I wanted her to just get some mileage and have some fun as I can train in ASCA, unlike other venues. In gamblers, she was worried, disconnected and left me. I ran to the back of the ring and she chased me. She did do a few obstacles and then we left. She repeated this in the 2nd round. When it was time for her next turn, she completely freaked out. I am still at a loss as to why. She wouldn't come to me, left the ring and even tried to get out of the facility. This is devastating to me. She didn't trust me enough to come to me when she was worried and scared. She just about got out of the door and in my opinion, she would have been gone. It makes me sick thinking about it.

I packed up and brought her home. She was happy and relaxed once at home. So now what happens? Well, I'm just not sure. I have decided to remove her from class for now. I started teaching her some nosework today.  She seemed to have a good time with that. For now, it will be something fun for her to do with me. I don't want her to be unhappy. I want her to LOVE whatever she does with me. If it means not doing agility, then so be it. Only time will tell...

Gem's progress 2...

     I started seriously training Gem in agility a few months ago. I needed to wait for her to be ready. It has taken time, lots of time. She is still immature, but I see flashes of what the grown-up Gem will look like every now and then. Gem is in no hurry. I have learned to step back and wait her out. This has not been easy for me. She isn't one to be pushed. She is a thinker. She needs to know how things work and tick before she commits. She isn't impulsive and she isn't one to be drilled. Early on, I tried to push her too hard too fast and I paid the price. She shut down and disconnected. Lesson learned. When I signed her up for a 2 hour workshop and she stayed focused and happy, I knew she was ready for real training again.

     So, I began again, only slowly and methodically and allowed her to set the pace. For some things, she likes to learn them quickly, for others, not so much. When I first tried to teach her weave poles, I tried the 2x2 method. I became frustrated with the lack of progress and her unwillingness to offer behaviors. I then tried the channel method, which was an epic failure as well. I stopped teaching her weaves again. What I realized was that she wasn't ready for this particular skill yet. So I focused on other skills and behaviors instead. Eventually, I went back to the 2x2 method, using Mary Ellen Barry's twist on it, which made more sense to me. With the guidance of Gem's instructor Donna Rohaus, we dove back into this method. It has taken several months, but she is finally doing 12 weaves with speed and drive.

     Her jumping foundations are coming along too. She easily gets bored with too much repetition, so I break it up with tugging and retrieving sessions. The lessons she has taught me have been hard won. She isn't like the boys. She is thoughtful, soft and sensitive. The boys are not any of these things, at least in agility. I can see her joy in jumping now, no longer tentative, but joyful and driven. I love that.

     Gem is being taught a running A-frame. At times, I think I'm crazy. I'm about to be 50 years old and a triathlete I am not. Her zest for learning this is infectious. She IS getting it and hits it more times now than not. As I have never taught this before, her missing it really doesn't bother me. She is figuring this out and I am so enjoying the process. I just hope I can keep up with her.

     I recently entered her into a few classes in Level 1 in a CPE trial. We still have lots of things to work on, but this showed me that I was on the right track in her training. She did qualify in several classes and got some ribbons, but that really wasn't the important part. The best was that she was happy, not stressed and having a great time playing the game with me.

     For now, it is back to training. I plan on running her in November in a few more CPE trials and maybe launching her into USDAA and ASCA too. More than anything, I want to enjoy the ride with her. I want her to stay happy. Titles don't really mean anything right now. Her enjoyment and confidence are my goals. The other stuff will come in time. I know that now. Gem is on her own timetable and I'm along for the ride. I plan on enjoying the journey with her...

A smiling, happy Gem

Gem's progress...

I only seriously started training Gem for agility within the last several months. When she was younger, I pushed too hard, too soon and she shut down on me. Lesson learned. I have had to wait until Gem is ready to be trained. She is soft and a real thinker. She needs to analyze everything for the most part until she commits to doing it. This is very different from the boys.

I have had to step back and examine how Gem learns and what the best ways are to plan training sessions with her. After months of training alone and with the occasional private lesson from Donna Rohaus, we finally got into a class taught by Donna. This has done her a world of good, for the most part. Also, being able to take her to other spaces to train has helped her confidence level. I don't expect her to be perfect, because Lord knows I certainly am not. I do expect her to try. This has been a problem in the past. She had a difficult time offering behaviors, but she seems to be more willing to do just that as she matures and becomes more confident.

Gem is learning a running A-frame, which is a blast to teach her. She is only getting better and better each time I train it. She is also learning 4 on for her teeter behavior and 2 on 2 off for her dogwalk. That may change as time goes on, but for now, these are my goals. She is also doing 12 weave poles as 6 and 6, separated by about 6 feet via the 2x2 method and Mary Ellen Barry's great Clean Run article. She is still rather Velcro when it comes to jumping, but her foundation is becoming more and more solid as we work it. Gem is sequencing only 3-4 obstacles, but it is a start.

My goal is to have her ready to trial in February or March 2014. I am planning on putting her in level 1 CPE jumpers in 2 trials at the end of this year to get her used to ring conditions. My goals are simple... to make sure she has fun, is stress free and that she stays in the ring with me. We have a long way to go for sure, but now I am positive we will get there...

Baby Gem at 8 weeks, April 2011

Gearing up...

We will be attending the USDAA Cynosport World Games in October. It will be Piper's last National competition. He is entered as a veteran and I am hoping to make the Veterans Showcase with him. They take the top 3 dogs in each veteran jump height. We get to compete in the team events of snooker, gamblers, standard and jumpers. We compete for ourselves and not with a team. This takes a great deal of pressure off of us both, well mainly me.

Piper by M. Nicole Fischer

Quite honestly, unless I let the pressure get to me, Piper could care less. It is up to me to keep my cool and make sure he has the best time EVER!

 

For Seeker, my goals are a bit different. He IS on a team, a fun and even possibly, competitive team. "Bordering On Golden" is the team name and consists of a Golden Retriever (Canon & Sally Peters), another Border Collie (Kilo & Helen Kurz) and Seeker & me. He is also entered in Bialthlon, Grand Prix and Steeplechase quarterfinals. I would really like to make at least semifinals in those and I would really like to make a good showing in Biathlon with him. My goal in our team classes are to not get an E. We aren't the fastest team, but we are consistent.

Seeker by David Rice

Training is taking precedence right now for Seeker, with some for Piper. At 10 1/2, Piper's skills are what they are, for good or bad. As long as I am where I need to be, when I need to be there, we can't go wrong. I have been working on tricky weave entrances for them both and backsides, threadles and serpentine jumps combos. I love training the boys. They are like comfy jeans and a sweatshirt, always right and always comfortable.

 

This will be our first RV adventure, but hopefully not our last. We are fortunate enough to have a good friend that is allowing us to borrow hers for the trip to Tennessee. It isn't big, but I am hoping it is far better than commuting back and forth the entire time from a motel. Everything is right there, including showers and restrooms. I'm just hoping we aren't stuck WAY in the back, miles from everything. I, for one, am looking forward to the trip with the hubby and the dogs.

 

The girls will be going too and they will also get to have some fun. The National Canine Cancer Foundation will be there with their Lure-For-A-Cure, so the girls can blow off some steam chasing the bunny a couple times a day. Ceilidh loved this in 2010 when we went to Kentucky and she slept like a log every night. I think her and Gem will have a blast!

 

In preparation, I am getting the boys on dirt for a couple of CPE trials. Since they only get to run mostly on turf, this will be good for them. Especially since it is a low key venue for us, I am looking to get some good work out of them both. Seeker is also entered in a DAM tournament in September, another good warm-up for us.

 

As it is Piper's last national event, it may be Seeker's as well, depending on logistics. Next year's Cynosport will be in California, definitely not doable, so we will just have to see where they are in 2015. I did not try to qualify Seeker for AKC Nationals, even though they are relatively close. While I like AKC, I have to travel to do CPE and USDAA, so a decision had to be made. Finances won't allow doing it all. Plus, I really wanted to have money to spend at Cynosport! Eye on the prize!!!

 

I love going to these types of competition because I get to see the best of the best. It is truly an education. Back to work for me and the boys so we can do our very best too...



Wonderings...

Piper turned 10 in April. At the beginning of 2013, I decided to drop him into the 16" class for all of his venues. He has had many medical challenges over the last 2+ years, luckily none of them involving injuries. But I know his body has had to deal with a great many issues so continuing to jump him at a higher height no longer seemed to be an option.

 

I truly love this dog and want to see him play agility for as long as he and his body would like to do so. It seemed logical to make this progression with him. Was it because he hit 10 and that was a magical number for me? No... it wasn't. It was because his body has taken lots of medical hits over the last couple of years. Anal sac ruptures, anal fistula, chronic constipation, immune and gastrointestinal issues, uveitis and food allergies have all left their mark on him. While most people don't see a 10 year old dog, I do and at time, I see one older than his years.

 

I still see dogs that are his age and older still competing in the higher heights. I wonder if and when these handlers will make this transition for their dogs. I'm sure I could have pushed Piper to continue jumping 20" or 22", but to what end? Everybody has to make a decision as to what is best for their own canine partner. For me and Piper, it was dropping him to 16" and going out and having fun for the rest of his career. We still have some goals to be met, like his CPE C-ATCH and I hope a trip to the Veterans Showcase at Cynosport this October. Dropping down doesn't mean giving up competition. For me, it means letting Piper be comfortable and competitive while having all the fun that he wants. THAT is the most important goal to be met. FUN!!!

 

Hug your dogs and have some fun!!!