Daisy and Gretchen » running

Daisy: Ready to launch

Scott — Sat, 11 Apr 2009 00:07:47 +0000

Rabbits, cats and sparrows…Oh my!

Scott — Tue, 17 Mar 2009 04:59:29 +0000

An afternoon romp in the hills began innocently enough with the chasing of sparrows; Daisy and Gretchen darted from left to right, in weeds, over weeds, across an overgrown path in the hopes of catching the quick feathered.

Gretchen continued the pursuit, but Daisy, perhaps realizing the futility of her efforts, had become preoccupied with a nose to the ground. “Daisy,” I exclaimed, as she thumbed her snout at me and managed to continue chomping on her newly discovered prize. I expected to force the release of a petrified squirrel, but was surprised (not pleasantly) to see a cats hind leg drop to the grass-sprouting ground. Well, it appears we have not completely driven off the coyotes with urban sprawl.

But that was not all. As we readied to leave, Daisy at a distance of 100 yards, managed to ignore our summons and continued to explore the brush. Suddenly, she proudly began running with a large object protruding from her jowls. “Not again!”

The very happy German shorthair brought us what she assumed was a great gift, but from our point of view was nothing more than a decomposing jack rabbit. No kisses from Daisy tonight was the rule.

Freedom!

Scott — Wed, 11 Mar 2009 06:02:58 +0000

Yes, the rain in Northern California has currently subsided, and just in time for Daisy and Gretchen. Being tethered to their human counterweights while on a walk simply does not suffice, which is about all they get when the hills are alive with mud. What these German shorthairs need is not a stroll on concrete, but an unfettered jaunt through native grasses. It’s all about chasing birds, catching a rogue scent on the breeze, and expending a week’s worth of energy with an hour long run.

Plus, we thoroughly enjoy two pooches completely worn out for the night.