First of all, Abby always has fresh water available at her “luxury” pool. She often cools herself in the water, takes a few sips, then comes out asking for another game of fetch.

What happens next?

Shaking off the water, what did you expect?

Now, what’s all this fuss about birthdays? A big, blue ball that I can’t even fetch and a silly hat. . . Humans have the strangest ideas about a good time.

Time to ditch the hat. . .

And let the REAL party begin!

Thanks for all of the birthday wishes! I’m a lucky dog- I’ve gotten wishes from around the world.

How do you refresh yourself on a hot sunny day?

Abby Sunshine made new friends in Stevens Point, Wisconsin. She was doing her usual fetch game (minding her own business) when a group of mallards couldn’t help themselves, but join in on the fun. The Nova Scotia Duck Tolling Retriever acquired its name through this intrinsic quality- ducks are attracted to the dog. For some reason that we humans may not understand, ducks become curious and swim in closer.

Abby dashes into the water. The birds watch attentively as she goes after the ball. Abby is focused on the ball and has no trouble ignoring the ducks. She is on a mission and will not be distracted.

She continues to fetch the ball, near the waterfowl. They stay out of her path yet remain close.

Sometimes Abby takes a moment to study the birds. She know she has her ball, so if she looks at them, I guess it’s OK.

When Abby approaches, the mama duck quacks at her ducklings.  What is Abby thinking about as she swims by this noisy family?

Who cares! Let’s keep moving.

Abby is focused on her priorities. The ducks are busily attending to their needs. They don’t seem to be phased that a highly talented retriever is hanging around with them. Shouldn’t they be a little bit worried?

Well, Abby is not giving them any fears today. She comes in peace.

Good times with good ducks. . .

Did you say squirrel? Now that’s a different story.

No such luck, Pupper Wupper. You need to come back here if you want another toss.

No problem. Abby doesn’t hesitate. . .Come on, Abby. Bring back the ball.

Good dog. You are almost here.

At last. . .now what, more walking?

I think not. Bark, Abby, bark. Demand another throw!

by Leslea Newman

Illustrations by Machiyo Kodaira

After reading about a loyal dog in Brazil (post from January 17), I came across this story about another faithful canine. Based on a true story from the 1920s in Japan, Hachiko, the dog and main character, epitomizes a “good dog.”

Synopsis:

“What a good dog you are. What a fine dog you are. Hachi, you are the best dog in all of Japan.” Professor Ueno speaks these words to his faithful dog before boarding the train to work every morning. And every afternoon, just before three o’clock, Hachi is at the train station to greet his beloved master. One day, the train arrives at the station without the professor. Hachi waits.For ten years, Hachi waits for his master to return. Not even Yasuo, the young boy who takes care of Hachi, can persuade him to leave his post.Hachiko Waits, a novel inspired by a true story, brings to life the legendary Akita who became a national symbol for loyalty and devotion. This is a must-read for dog lovers of all ages.

There is a a statue honoring Hachiko in Shibuya (a part of Tokyo), Japan.

As with any good story, books are written and movies are made. Here is a video clip from a 1987 Japanese film Hachikō Monogatari.

Another movie, Hachi: A Dog’s Tale, was made in 2009.

Todd is talking to Gus and petting him calmly amid loud barking coming from all directions. Renae is beginning to feel a chill. They need to get moving to warm up!

Time to go!

Here’s a closeup of their start. They were fast out of the gate- ready to hit the trail.

Gus is still pulling strong after having gone almost 4K. I can hear Renae talking with Gus- “Come on, Gus!” Renae told me after the race that Gus seemed to know where to go. He was attentive to the trail.

Here they make their way to another bridge- passing another skijor team on their left!

One last turn, and they are nearing the finish line, much faster than last year.

Though I could not keep up, I found them at the finish area, dog handlers (Cousins Gretchen and Jordan) greeting this dynamic duo.

Who else is at the finish line? Who is standing so quietly by Auntie Anne?

Well, if it isn’t Pupper Wupper herself. Is she here in support of Renae and Gus? Or does she have something else on mind? Hmmm, I wonder what Todd is holding in his hand.

Here is the skijor pair- back at the car. Gus and Renae share a moment of endearment after finishing the race.

Here are some photos from the event last year.

In honor of  his important role of service and dedication to this region, a sled dog marathon was created. Mushers come from near and far to participate in this popular event. Here is video footage of the 1st and 2nd mushers crossing the finish line- Ryan Anderson (1st) and Nathan Schroeder only seconds apart in the finish of the 2011 race.

Hey, the crowd is leaving- back to the car? Our ski adventures are over??

It looks that way for today. They must hike over the mountain of snow and into the parking lot. Gus can get his long awaited drink of water.

Renae went back to get my glove. Wasn’t that nice of her?

This was a marvelous winter day.