Eleven years ago today I was anxiously awaiting news of the Bandit x Darcy litters arrival. The next 8 weeks were a flurry of emotion as I sat through finals and practicums in order to graduate college all while preparing to bring my new puppy home. There was a hiccup when I found out half way to Indiana I wasnt getting the puppy I thought I was getting and I seriously considered turning around and going home, but Mom and Dad convinced me there was no harm in going and meeting Dot. I was still hesitant up until Kelly opened the crate and Fly leapt out into her arms. Kelly passed the squirming puppy to me, Fly and I made eye contact, and then she licked my nose. It was then that I knew everything had worked out and she was the puppy I was meant to have. In 11 years we have grown and learned together. I am who I am because of her. I discovered my love of training and behavior because of her and Im thankful every day for it. We had a few rough years where she desperately tried to tell me that she was uncomfortable and I was pushing her too hard but I wasnt smart enough to understand. It took me a long time to be able to figure out what she needed and I cant ever be thankful enough for the patience she has given me while I figured our relationship out. Now 2.5 years after returning to competition our bond is stronger than ever and I couldnt be more proud of what we have accomplished together. Weve experienced so many firsts together, so many heartbreaks, so many happy moments, and Im thankful for all of them. She spent all of last year battling severe allergies, tearing herself apart and yet she gladly hopped in the car and repeatedly traveled all over New England, New York, New Jersey, and Pennsylvania to attend trials with me. And each time I worried whether or not I was pushing her too much or asking too much of her she would respond with a perfect score, a first place, or a happy, smiling bounce in the ring. I cant ever thank her enough for putting up with me while I struggled to figure everything out. Happy 11th Birthday, Fly! ARCHX BonniDunes Wanna Fly By Dawn RA RL1X3 RL2X3 RL3-AOE RLVX16 CGC HIC
Posted on: Mon, 31 Mar 2014 13:26:29 +0000
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