Five years later …
November 15th marked the five year anniversary of See Spot Run. When I sit and reflect back on those five years, I am overwhelmed with all of the fabulous memories, friendships and achievements that have resulted over that time. If it wasn’t for Porter, none of this would ever have happened. I certainly owe that wonderful dog for changing my life. As we approach the holiday season and we are spending time with loved ones, both canine and human, I’d like to fill you in on 2011 at See Spot Run.
As always, we have been welcoming new dogs through out the year to our pack. There have been plenty of puppies this past year but we have also had the pleasure of opening our doors to many rescues that have found their new forever homes. We have a personal connection to the Border Collie Friends Rescue, and had the opportunity to spend time with some fosters while they awaited new forever homes. While it is sad to see them go we are also very happy to see them find such fabulous new homes. Hunter was our latest foster to leave for a new home in Penticton. He has gone to a wonderful home where he will be a training partner for his new mom as she prepares for Iron Man triathlons. Such a lucky dog.
For every new face that comes through our doors we also have to say good bye to others. This year we mourned the loss of four beautiful spirits as they crossed the bridge to wait for their owners to join them. From the daycare we said good bye to Buddy the Border Collie. He was a handsome young lad who very quickly became a side kick to both Rhonda and me. His loss was sudden and a definite blow to his family and ours. We miss him every day. We also said goodbye to three of our agility friends, Janie, Rocky and Lily. All four dogs have joined those that have gone before them on our Rainbow Wall where they are remembered every day.
In May, Slice and I headed to England as part of Team Canada at the World Agility Open. Never in a million years did I think I would ever have this opportunity! The experience was amazing, a lifetime of memories made and that wee little girl blew the world away with her size, speed and ability. We ran 13 courses over three days and came home with a Gold and Silver medal for our efforts. As we received our Gold Medal and the national anthem played, I was never more proud of being a Canadian as I was at that moment. This was my Olympics.
As a result of our success, we will be returning to the World Agility Open in 2012 in Belgium to defend our title and represent Canada. Not only do I get to take Slice, but this year her baby brother Pint will be making his world debut. Joining us on our journey will be our training partners Deb Rhodes and Britt (Bronze Medalist from 2011), Barb Flowers and Vegas (daycare dog and student at See Spot Run), as well Meaghan O’Neill and Wynd. We are ready to represent and show the world what we’re made of. Stay tuned for updates.
This was not the only exciting news from the world of agility for See Spot Run. Once again, our staff, instructors and student represented well at both the AB/NWT Regionals and National Championships. We brought home many ribbons and trophies. Two extra special achievements to note were; Porter winning his division at the Regional Championships, a very fitting way to move into semi-retirement, and Ainsley Sykes and Ceili earning their Lifetime Achievement Award. So very proud of both Porter and Ceili for achieving such greatness when the road ahead seemed long and impossible. Every dog has the potential for greatness, you just have to believe you will find it.
On a personal note, 2011 was and amazing year full of success and new experiences. When I rang in the New Year in January, I never would have predicted that by the end of the year I would have met the man of my dreams and gotten married before 2012 came along. So much can happen in a year.
As 2011 winds to a close the excitement is building for 2012. Thank you for your continued support of See Spot Run. It is a pleasure to spend our days with your canine family members.
