Todays' Perfect Moment is brought to us care of our 15 month old puppy, Charley.
This is Charley. (He says, "Don't blame me for the messy room, I just nap here.")
These are the hills and mountains near our house where we go on hikes with the dog.
There are lots of rattlesnakes in the hills and they are an important part of the ecosystem, keeping vermin populations controlled.(Vermin is such a fun word, don't you think? Sounds way cooler than rodents. Sorry, I digress. Also, I did not take this picture, it is a file photo from the Park Service.)
Last summer, we took Charley to a Snake Avoidance clinic which trains the dog to show Zero interest in the sight, sound, or smell of snakes with the use of a trainer and electric shock collar.
Three weeks ago, we went hiking with the dog and saw a 3 foot long black Rattlesnake right next to the trail. My husband was fascinated of course and examined it from a safe distance. He counted 7 rings on the rattle. The dog is usually always interested in what his humans are doing and especially when it involves small creatures, but Not This Time! Charley sat right at my feet and studiously Ignored the Whole Thing!! He did just what he was trained to do when encountering a snake. I am so proud of him! Good Dog!! (Now if only I can fit him with a shock collar to keep him out of the trash.)
