You may have noticed that since I can’t be in two places at one time, I have started setting up cameras in various locations and putting them “on autopilot” so to speak. While filming Aliy’s harness demonstration the other day, I had put such a camera on the ground right in front of the team as it was being hooked up.
The resulting footage turned out not to be as useful as what you’ve already seen in “Hook Up And Head Out”, but there was one part of it that I think you’ll find both entertaining and informative. From one perspective, this video is just a minute of dogs being dogs. From another point of view, it shows much more.
What caught my eye is something that immediately reminded me of “The Odd Couple” TV show. On the left you will see Skittles, a hyper-enthusiastic — almost crazy — lead dog. On the right you will see Bullet, a serious — almost stoic — lead dog. The differences between them as they are waiting to run are so stark in contrast that it’s downright comical.
On the other hand, the instant Bridgett says “Ready!” the two of them join forces and bolt simultaneously to lead the team out at a gallop. When you see the exit chute clip — from yet another camera I had set up! — you’ll see a great example of just how fast the dogs sprint out of the yard. Keep in mind that this video is playing at actual speed!
We have often pointed out that “each dog is an individual” at SP Kennel, and that we respect each dog for it. When you see “The Odd Couple” together, I think you’ll see we really mean it. They are welcome to be as individual — different, quirky or even crazy — as they want, as long as they love to run, do their jobs and work together.
The fact that they often have us laughing in stitches is a bonus for us!
On your second viewing of this video, you can see another good example of individuality if you look at Teddy, the leaping swing dog right behind Skittles and Bullet. Keep in mind that Teddy is an 8 1/2 year old dog, a truly seasoned veteran, who is so nonchalant around the Kennel that you might wonder if she knows she’s a sled dog. The moment you put her in harness, however, she starts acting like a yearling again, leaping and barking to get going. Dogs… go figure!
