Jasper and Loki - A Successful Easter Weekend

Congratulations to Jasper who earned his first leg for his AKC Junior Hunter title.

Brian writes: "Jasper was very responsive to whistle, hand signals and all commands in the field (the judge commented favorably on that aspect of his performance as she rode next to me; she also said, "he's really a nice-looking dog"). A few minutes into the bird field, he caught the scent of a quail in a small clump of bushes and locked up in a perfect point. And wonder of wonders, he held rock solid until the quail flushed of it's own accord. He had no problem with the shot from my blank pistol (not that I expected any - he's been around shotgun fire so much in real hunting situations) and although he started to chase the flying quail, he turned back to me quickly after I whistled him off."

I have no doubt Jasper would have passed both days if not for the young dog he was paired with on Saturday who ran through the bird field before he was suppose to work his way to that area of the course. Jasper and Brian will try again in three weeks.

Congratulations to Loki who went Winner's Dog/Best of Winners at the Chintimini Kennel Club dog show in Albany, OR, both days. He was handled in the ring by his "Auntie" Suzanne Horvath.  Saturday's picture will be posted as soon as it is received.

Fun in the Field

On March 27th, we went to an  Oregon Bird Dog Challenge training day.  I had to keep my distance and stand downwind so I wouldn't interfere with Loki's concentration (a breeder sometimes has that affect on "her" puppies long after they go to their new homes!) I watched Loki work from the top of a hill that overlooks the entire field - it's a great vantage point.

I walked with Marc as he handled Patriot on his run. This allowed me to get closer photos but I also interfered with Patriot's run. He did check back with me a couple of times - I tried not to talk to him and to only give him my back or point in the direction he should be going. But, once I said, "Find it!" Marc reminded me I had agreed not to talk - but it was so hard to not give Patriot that command! I videoed Paloma's run so there are no close ups of her working. :( 

Patriot after his run, wishing he could have had one of those baby back ribs we ate for lunch. They were so good and the man who developed Tribal Moose BBQ sauces was our cook! YUM

Happy Spring

Here's hoping for more days of sunshine than rain and certainly no more snow!! 

Patriot is back with us for handling classes, shows, and opportunities to work on his bird skills. We are looking forward to getting both he and Paloma entered into a few hunt tests this Spring. 

Let us know what your Springtime plans are.

Vizsla Club of America Welfare Foundation Health Survey Analysis

Vizsla Club of America - Health Survey Analysis

This is the analysis from the health survey the VCA asked Vizsla owners to participate in in 2008.  If you haven't taken a look at it yet, grab a cup of coffee, tea or water, and take a seat.  It is interesting to see the health issues affecting our breed.

Happy Valentine's Day

Happy Valentine's Day Ziggy, Loki, Jasper, Patriot, Crawford and Paloma ~ 

One of my favorite holidays, second only to Easter! This Sunday we celebrate Valentine's Day - this is the one day a year we really should make sure the people around us know how much we love them. So, I'm writing to remind you to make sure you give your parents an extra heaping of love; your friends, too!  I know you might have a hard time doing this, since you give so much love everyday, but try really hard to squeeze out just one more lick or wiggle. Oh, and make sure you don't do anything to make Mom and Dad upset with you! It might be the day to spread the love, but if you do something really naughty, they just might forget!   

I took this picture at Valley of Fire State Park near Las Vegas, Nevada, on the day Josh and Bree (Patriot's parents) were married!  Can you see the heart?! 


We are sending you all lots of love and hugs ~
Marc, Audrey, Hannah, and Your Mama, Marley  

Loki's Official Show Picture

Well, here it is - the official picture. It turned out better than expected given the craziness of the morning!
Thanks, Steve and Jamie, for this copy!

Olive - The Puppies' Aunt

Sunstead's River Song ~ affectionately known as Olive

She Owned Ted and Amber's Hearts and They Owned Her's 

October 7, 2003 - February 3, 2010

Olive is Marley's full litter sister. I spent alot of time with her before she went to live with Ted and Amber. Occasionally we would see one another but we never did get to have that one last birthday party together. We all thought this might be the year.  Last night she managed to get out of her yard. Unfortunately, she did not come back the way she went. When your heart wants to do something, please don't put it off.  We are not guaranteed a tomorrow but we never think tomorrow will come.  Hug your pups tight and keep them safe.  My thoughts and prayers are with Olive's parents.  

Enjoy these pictures of Olive. She loved spending time on the beach and had just returned from the weekend at Manzanita. 

We love you, Olive Girl!

Marc, Audrey, Hannah, Marley and Paloma