Feb 15th 2008.

My stockhandling clinic was excellent, we all got a great deal out of it. (see report in sheep menu).

Anyone who handles dogs and stock should attend one. It teaches you to observe your stock, be aware of their flight zone, work with the animal and not against it and help you to place your dog better.

It really does help lower the stress levels of both handler and animal. Many of us concentrate on training the dog and positioning ourselves but forget the sheep. Keeping the stock calm is an important part of the equation.

I also attended Jenny Parson's clinic held at Jean Hydleman's place.

Jenny is a top sheepdog/people trainer and excells at reading body language of dog ,handler and stock.

She can often notice small things that can make a huge difference. Even something as simple as constantly frowning at the dog (something I do ) instead of smiling to let the dog know he is doing the right thing can make quite a difference. Smiling can help relax us and the dogs, and make the whole thing more fun for everyone. 

On the home front, it has been very hot. I have done a little training with my dogs, Caleb is coming along nicely, but he is very impulsive and will sneak after the sheep at every chance, so I have to insist on the stop now, he is old enough to take some pressure. Angel is working very calmly, but I need to keep her moving around as she is inclined to be a bit strong eyed and so can get tied up on the head of the stock.

Drift is getting a little training as she gets her fitness back and did her first 'real job' the other day. She actually lacked a little confidence in moving a mob of young sheep so we are working on that.

Rio is putting on weigh so appears to be in pup. She was mated to Caleb. Normally a fairly nervous type of dog her confidence has doubled since the mating, so I guess it is a hormonal thing. Her off balance work has a lot to be desired so I am trying to improve that before the litter arrives.

Looking forward to some cooler weather and we can run a few fun/training days. We are also planning a 'mock' trial sometime.

On the farming side, we have been drenching all our sheep and moving them around as summer feed decreases. On Valentines day we put the rams out with the ewes. Very romantic for them I hope.

Looking eagerly to the end of daylight saving, it is a curse for country dwellers especially those of us with children.