Stepping Along

Monday, July 03, 2023

In yesterday’s late cool afternoon, I hiked with the dogs, and this time, Miles came along. I’ve avoided including the elderly Border Collie in our outings because Matcho Chase recently tried to fight with Miles. When the attack occurred, Chase was leashed, and got pulled the heck off!

Since then, Chase has worn an e-collar and regularly gone hiking with me on public trails. My finger rests on the collar’s stinger when he meets other dogs, particularly males older and weaker. Our hikes are accustoming Chase to these meetings. He’s been responsive to verbal warnings and avoids stinger hits.

Yesterday, Miles was beyond excited when invited to join our hike. He leaped into the Jeep, and during our ride, Chase was inoffensive. While we were hiking, the wide-ranging Miles outdistanced Chase, and otherwise, he tolerated badgering from the younger dog to play. Chase, as usual, played aggressively but didn’t pick fights. Everybody got home safely!

Regular trail experiences seem to be socializing my aggressive pup. His Rottweiler/Shepherd mix makes him cautious and protective and encourages him to be an alpha. Eventually, I hope Miles safely can be in the yard with Chase, without me near for protection. That would be a great outcome for this complicated and loveable young dog.

Miles, twelve years old, is big and beautiful. He’s a deeply-committed Border Collie. Yesterday, here, wet from the canal.

This shot brought Miles close up. He’s actually poised at a distance, focusing intently on me his “Border Collie herding eye.”

Dear Friends: Progress often follows the taking of one slow step after another. Diana