I was reinforced more than once today that I really, really have no idea what I'm doing. I don't know enough even to help Cedar out when she starts to get frantic. I feel like we need to take a class in remedial shepherding. Or maybe just me. I should get into cat agility or something...it has to be easier than this.
I actually got to the shrieking point today. My voice makes this funny strangled yodeling sound that is even scary to me, so I can only imagine what it does to Cedar. I really do try not to lose my cool but it was hot and we just weren't getting anywhere. Plus it was about a billion degrees outside. Not that I'm one to make excuses, but it made it especially miserable.
There were some good moments, though. We did some nice driving; she is really gaining confidence with it and I think I am, too. And as a bonus, I finally got her to work with me and pick sheep up off of Dianne, which is something we never could have done even a month ago. I am extremely proud of her for that. I think there might be hope for us after all.
Working Cedar has taught me a lot, patience being the most important. That, and how to run really fast through deep sand, yell like a dying banshee, and walk backwards whilst watching the sheep, my dog, and trying not to trip. Add some poorly aimed stick chucking and that's about the extent of my skills so far. Bah!
Not really related to dogs, but I think it sort of explains a lot about why I am how I am... Joe sent me a link to a page that goes into detail about my Chinese astrology sign. I was born in the year of the Tiger. Scary how much it sounds like me:
"Often, failing at a given task or being unproductive in his personal or professional life can cause a Tiger to experience a depression. Criticism from loved ones can also generate this type of Tiger reaction. Still, like all felines, Tigers always land on their feet, ready for their next act in life, pursuing it with unyielding energy and hunting it infallibly."
Other highlights:
"...incorrigibly competitive"
"may appear cool, but they have the Big Cat's instincts to pounce at a moment's warning"
"Self-Reliant"
"Tigers Dislike: Not getting enough recognition for their efforts. Being inferior to others at work, impolite people"
"Good strategists and tacticians"
Apparently I'm a "Scorpio Tiger" too..... which is the most "intense" of all the Tigers. Great.
I wonder if I can apply this information to working my dog?
Moving to our new place this weekend; we have lots to do so I should probably get to packing/loading boxes into my car and stuff... or something. I'm out!
5 comments:
I really like that site and the blog actually made me laugh out loud today!
Cat agility made me laugh. Then you'd just be a crazy cat lady. :)
I think when we have "short bus days" then it's best to go back and read the beginning of the blog and think "my God. I've come so far" and then you'll feel better about yourself.
Also, I have stopped even trying to throw things to make a point--my aim is so bad that my trainer actually made fun of me.
It's a journey. :)
Have you ever watched cat agility? I caught it late one night (couldn't sleep) on PBS.
OMG there actually is such a thing as cat agility?
Ellie...you are hysterical! I am laughing & trust me, I feel your pain
-Carolynn
(Your Short-Bus Companion)
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