A Journey

I've said a few times in the past few weeks that Wicca is retired. And I've been thinking about a way to write about it- to really let people see the things that we have done together. What it has meant. It is hard to put into words, but I'll try.

I am so incredibly lucky to have had her as my partner for the past 8 years. She has taught me so much, and we've come so far together. For us, this journey has been hard, and rocky, and loaded with twists and turns. Nothing has been easy. Nothing- we have worked hard for every qualifying run, for every weave entry, for every bar that stayed up. But that makes every bit of success we've had all the more awesome.

We've done all this cool stuff together- first regionals, first nationals, first plane ride, first time "on the podium"...it is incredible to think that a dog has changed my life so much. She is such a huge part of who I have become- as a dog trainer, and a person. I am very sad that our fun was cut short, but I am grateful that we have many years ahead of us still. We will create new memories- away from agility and obedience, and I will do my best to ensure that she still feels as special as she deserves to be. Once she is further recovered we will get back to Tracking- I think that will be safe and easy on her body. But mostly she'll still by my buddy. The dog at the end of the couch, at the foot of the bed, pulling on the leash, and always on the lookout for Gophers...

It has been an incredible ride Woo. Thank you.

Here is a little slideshow I made- some of our favorite memories and a small portion of our journey together..