When you live with something every day, it’s sometimes hard to see the larger picture. People ask me all the time how the dogs have fared in the move to the new farm, and I don’t think I ever wrote much about it. I thought I should sum up a bit. We moved to the farm just before Halloween. Each of the dogs had visited many times. We built a dog run next to the house with a secure fence – we live off a busy road. We were most concerned about Frieda and how she would react to the noise and the traffic.
Red has no problems adjusting. He is a working border collie with sheep out the door. Life is good. I work with him every day and he goes almost everywhere that I go. His life is full and meaningful, he is living his life almost to its full potential and that is gratifying to me. There will be more to come. His herding skills are sharp and he is very useful to us. He goes out on farm chores and visits his many admirers throughout the day.
Lenore’s role has changed also. She has become Maria’s ride-a-long dog. She goes out on chores and rides, gets free run of the area around the house – she never even glances at the road and is happy inside dozing on her sofa in my study. She has matured and is close to both of the other dogs, often curled up sleeping next to them. She remains the love dog, tail always wagging, on the prowl for food and attention.
The move has been wonderful for Frieda. She chases loud trucks with engine noises but the run is narrow and she runs back and forth and barks and then they are gone. She protects the house guarding against intruders. She is a watchdog through and through, loud, intimidating and vigilant. This role suits her, gives her a sense of purpose and focus. Inside the house, she is often found by the wood stove or curled up next to me or Maria.
These three are close with one another than any other combination of dogs I have had. They curl up next to each other, eat calmly alongside one another, even share their treats and chews. The move has been very good for them. It is a closer area for them to manage, and the old farmhouse has lots of good spaces beneath tables and in corners for them to melt into, as they do each night.
They each get attention and several walks a day together – we go to a nearby park and if the weather permits hike back on our own property. They each have defined roles and important work to do. The dogs have fared well. We have no problems with them and as good dogs do, they have moved seamlessly into our new lives. As I write this all three dogs are curled up under my desk and alongside of me. I always have to be careful moving my chair back.