Herding Sheep with Friends

As the weather becomes more summer-like, Cody and I try to get out early to work sheep a couple of mornings each week.  This morning was clear and warm, but with a nice breeze
and not nearly as hot as July in North Central Texas can be.  We had a great time at Jack and Vivian Christensen’s lovely place just outside Meridian.  Jack is a great mentor and friend, and Vivian often serves as trial secretary for herding events in this area.  Their friendship and support is something I treasure.  This morning, one of their pups kept us company under the trees 

while the dogs took turns working some very nice Cheviot ewes.

Lindsey and Toby Williams were there with three of their dogs.  Lindsey and I have known each other for several years, and have so enjoyed having each other as competitors and friends.  This dog is Ruby, their youngest except for a couple of pups.  She is a great-niece of our Cody.  Both he and Ruby’s dam share Juan Reyes’ Red as their sire, so when we herd sheep together it's sort of a family affair. 

Ruby is not quite a year old, and is just beginning to work sheep.  She has tremendous potential, and an equal amount of enthusiasm.

Cody had a marvelous time.  He worked a bit on his own, 

then held sheep for Ruby to work.  Being able to set out and hold sheep while another dog works is a useful skill.  The dog must keep the sheep quiet and in place until the dog that is working approaches.  Then, he must remain in place while the other dog “picks up” the sheep and drives them away.  It's a challenge, and demands training and focus when the dog's instinct tells him to jump up and join the fun.  Fortunately, Cody has plenty of both and is a reliable set-out dog.

 

After working, it was time to chill out in the dog swimming pool, or as in this case, the sheep water trough.   

It was a great day.