The Spaniel Annals

It’s 2 days before Reardon and Roz debut in the novice obedience ring, in the obedience trial put on the regional German Shepherd club.  Based on weather reports of a few days ago, I chose today to train at the show site, Carco Park in Renton.  I figured I’d put up half of a ring, get them out on the grass, and have Kani practice her directed jumping and scent articles since she’s also entered in Saturday.  Well, funny how the weatherfolks can’t seem to predict past the next hour in a wet Northwest spring.  Today it’s been heavy rain all day.  But this afternoon was still my only opportunity to get them to the show site.  So off we go: extra pairs of shoes, winter jacket, 3 layers of shirts and a hat.  And that’s just for me!

Three hours later, we’re back home, bedraggled and soaked but with a great training session behind us.  Reardon and Roz had a full novice run-through, including off-leash heeling, and Kani practiced her more challenging exercises.    They did great!  I think I was the only one complaining, as my tennis shoes got increasingly squishy and the rain dripped off my hat.   But it was worth it, giving them a chance for an upbeat session right before the trial.  I’m excited to see how Reardon and Roz (referred to by a good friend and supporter as the “R babies”) will do in their first trial.