I got hired to do editorial shoot for a dog magazine and I would like to show you some of my works that did not make it as far as print.
I was a gray day with a sun peeking through once in a while, considering the rain weather we had recently I was a good day for photos. I drove to Maple Ridge (about 25 miles form Vancouver) with my window open taking in the morning brisk air and trying to cure the headache from the wedding part I have attended the night before.
After a few bad turns I finally arrived at the destination. The dogs were ready to go. Cheryl who teaches dogs the basics of herding got the sheep rounded up and ready.
What is really amazing about Cheryl is the fact that she owns the sheep for only one purpose – to work with the dogs.
Ricochet, Border Collie that belongs to Cheryl, is not only herding himself, but also shows “newbies” , how to do it.
Ruger is another “veteran of the sport”, is it is such fun to watch them work!
The amazing thing is that the dogs get so concentrated on getting the sheep in line that even if their favouirte treats were involved, they will still choose the sheep over the food.
The eyes never leave the sheep, always focused..
Ricochet is aslo a great teacher, Tyson, just a pup have his first lesson that day and got it so well!
Tyson had to be on a long leash that was hanging loosely from his neck, but provided Cheryl with the restrain that could be used if Tyson got in trouble. Tyson was fresh after surgery and everyone had to be careful. Dog’s safety is number one, but nobody wants the sheep to get hurt either. Normally the dogs would nibble on the sheep’s feet to make them move, but Ricochet and Ruger do not utilize this behavior.
The sheep gets moved around by the dog running them into place, stopping when necessary etc.
Anyway I will let you all know when the article is printed and you can read a fantastic and interesting story by a very talented journalist lady in a great magazine.
If you own the Border Collie you know how active they are, maybe trip to the country to get a little herding lesson would be in order?
It really looks like dogs have lots fun doing it and they are so tired after!
