Independence Day

Whenever one reads about the breed characteristics for the Great Pyrenees dog (MY breed!), usually the first or second word that comes to mind is "INDEPENDENT."

It is true, we are a very independent breed and I am certainly no exception to the rule. I think for myself, which may or may not be a good thing. This is a very useful trait for dogs who are working unattended all day protecting their flocks, as we have to be able to think for ourselves and not rely on a human to tell us what, where, when, etc.

I was so independent and unruly a few weeks back that I ran past my human companion and darted out the gate while she was attempting to put on my leash. Normally I am much more of a gentleman than this. Despite the fact that she hollered, "Champ, come!" I turned and looked and headed on down the drive at a full gallop. (Yes, dogs can gallop!) Eventually I was retrieved as I was followed in the car, but my independent streak could have been a dangerous one as there are many dangers to dogs (and cats) who roam around freely.

So much for my brief adventure!

Many pets are as adventurous, independent, and unruly as I am, and others have all sorts of different problems. I thought that if these pets, or their human companions, wanted to write in to me in care of my Tryon Daily Bulletin blog (champstdbblog.blogspot.com), perhaps I could use my canine wisdom and give some -- ahem -- advice that might be helpful or at least send you to a good resource. Just leave questions about training or other issues in the comments section and I will do my best to answer them.

My schedule is ramping up again. Last week I visited at White Oak and everyone was laughing because I can tell a kitchen staff member a MILE away! I love to follow them just in case they might want to give me something to eat. I am also going to see the children at the FENCE Day Camp a couple of times in the next few weeks for the Humane Education Program. I am very excited about this and about the fact that another Therapy Dog named Wreck will be going with me. One can only imagine how he came by that name!

I hope everyone has a wonderful Fourth of July. Please make sure your pets are in a secure place - loud noises such as firecrackers are frightening to many of us. And we all know there are many loud noises in celebration of our INDEPENDENCE!

In closing I would like to add this final line from a poem called "We are Great Pyrenees." Unfortunately it appears to be anonymously written so proper credit cannot be given to the author, but he or she certainly does understand our breed!

"We are Great Pyrenees....

We are not for everyone.

We are true friends and loving companions

We will guard your backside and kiss your face

But NOT the other way around."

Happy Independence Day!

— Champ