Wes Rau Clinic

Just finished the 2 day clinic that TRDMA organized with Wes Rau. Originally, there was to be a 2 day Basic class and a 2 day Advanced class...but, we didn't have enough folks for both classes. So, we trimmed it down to a 2 day intense course. I have to say that for all those who missed it...you really missed out on an incredible opportunity. With 10 of us there, Wes was able to do a lot more hands-on and one-on-one training with all of us. That really made a big difference and we were able to learn a LOT about our dogs, how to diagnose problems, and then how to FIX them! If I'd known half of what I learned this weekend when I ran the Quest 300 last February, we would have been able to finish...and probably with most of my dogs, too. We learned how to diagnose shoulder issues, neck/back issues, wrist issues, and hip issues. Then, Wes walked us through how to help/fix each one. I gained so much, that I feel truly confident that I can now help avoid and/or alleviate joint issues...or at least figure out what is going on with my dogs if I see one of them start to limp, or pull funny, etc.

I took Radar the first day, as I thought he'd be a bit calmer and such. Turned out the opposite and he became Spazzoid dog! Plus, while working on shoulders, we found out that pointers tend to have straighter and even thicker bones/joints. I had a real hard time trying to get a scapula lift on him (though my partner, Jillian got it right away). So, knowing that we'd work on wrists today, I took Feather with me. I found out quickly that she truly hated to be put down on her side...which meant that we ended up with a squirming ball of fury most of the time. My partner had to leave right after lunch, so I was on my own working with the Ice Princess. Turned out to be the best thing that could've happened. I not only got Feather to lay down...but was able to do the techniques that we learned today. Then, because I didn't have a partner that needed to do the techniques, I was able to practice all of the things that we learned yesterday as well! This resulted in a dog that became relaxed and at ease. I could actually see and feel her relax/get more flexible as I worked on her. It was great! I am so glad that I went ahead and did the clinic. I feel more confident that I'll be able to care for my dogs 10 times better than I have in the past. Right ON!!! And, handling Feather on my own was great practice, because it'll be just me out on the trail...so it is good to know that I managed to work with Feather by myself. :o)

Here's the litte "Ice Princess" looking very satisfied after a well earned treat.

Well, I'm off because the clinic was intense and I'm beat. Happy Labor's Day to All! Cheers!