Lead on ...

Moss in the bluebells - "No photos please!"

First, I must say I’ve missed you.  I love the gentle interactions created by just walking the dog, I learn a lot from you, my sincere thanks.  Currently Moss is in my room trying to get me to play with her, she’s very distracting!

AJK

Over the Easter holidays our local woods have been teeming with families and their dogs.  This is both rather wonderful and also a little bit tricky.  I am delighted that people are enjoying the woods and getting their kids outside and into the natural world.  

What could be better?

For anyone, particularly a child, to be outside amid the natural energy of the Spring has got to be good.

It’s so uplifting, particularly after a rain.

There’s also a tricky side for us.  Confession time, I’m going to sound territorial.  Normally, especially mid-week, I know or recognise at least 50% of the dogs that we meet in the woods.  We know what to expect, who’s playful, who’s definitely not, who barks a lot and who is very sensitive.  With this familiarity there’s a mutual respect and understanding, which makes dog walking both easier and perhaps more rewarding.

In the holidays it’s simply not like that, there are many dogs we’ve never met before and whose behaviour we can’t predict.

Moss has to learn how to deal with each new situation.

Since she’s an alpha, and a Border Collie, she’s pretty full on!  She’s also in season now which adds another whole layer of interest and buzz around her.

She is also a natural born athlete who needs to run and jink, it’s part of her very existence. 

My solution is simple, when we meet another dog, and it’s off the lead, Moss stays off the lead and they have to work it out.  If it’s on the lead I put Moss on the lead straight away.  It’s not an entirely fool proof method, but I think it’s saved a couple of diplomatic incidents.

If you have the chance, get outside into the Spring weather, the scent of bluebells alone is unbelievable.

AJK