While it seems impossible that Hank is nine...even though it also seems like he's been here forever...Hank is nine...and it's time to think about bringing along the next generation of farm security.
I was hoping to wait another year or twelve, but the point was made that it would be best to do this before Hank got too old and then a situation presented itself that seemed like a gift from the dog gods and, well, meet June.
June is a 6 1/2 month old Anatolian Shepherd.
She loves sheep.
Even, I think, our Very Opinionated Sheep.
This afternoon.
Checking in with Hank.
I've had several questions about how Maisie likes her. You can tell by her face that she is not a big fan. I was surprised by that as she loves Hank. She might come around...but it might take some time, sort of like cookie eating* ;-).
I'm honestly not really sure how Hank feels about her. In the beginning I think he was excited to have some company, but he was also a little concerned about her around his sheep and watched her pretty intently all day. Today he didn't worry about her much at all, but did seem maybe a little miffed that she was still here.
She's very good around the sheep so I think that's reassured him safety-wise. We've tried to make sure he knows he's still very special and loved and he and Saint Tim had a big tummy rub session this evening and that cheered him up quite a bit. He's run this farm by himself for almost nine years. Change is hard. But change is frequently good. Right, Maisie? ;-)
*Maisie has refused to eat cookies her whole life (almost five years) and just when I was thinking I needed to get a video of her torpedo-ing a cooking out of her mouth...she decided to prove me wrong and start eating them. She probably still hates cookies, but thinks that's funny.
17 comments:
June looks like a great fit! Yup, have to keep telling Hank he's #1 Dog. He's very sensitive but will get used to her soon. Nobody told him he was getting a little sister. ;-)
Interesting! Just heard coyotes and Hank is barking out back and June is working the front. Teamwork!
She is adorable. I think Hank will end up loving the company. She has amazing eyes. So glad she is good with the sheep.
Looks like June is a great match for Hank, your sheep, and your farm! Best of luck with her.
Hank can't be 9 already.....
Looks like June will be a natural.
Oh wow, June is beautiful but Hank knows he's still No 1 dog.
He never asked for a little sister..... (Been there, remember it clearly!)
Once he understands that she can share the responsibility of keeping the sheep safe, I bet he will be glad for teamwork.....
She’s a puppy! (Yes, I had to read the Wikipedia link). Sweet face. Doesn’t look like Maisie - or championship jumper Biscuit- will faze her. I think Hank will come round and decide she’s a good deputy sheriff 🙂.
Hello beautiful June. And long live Hank!
June is a beautiful dog, and I hope she and Handsome Hank will be happy workmates for years to come. I’m curious about how she is with your cats. Has she met any of them yet?
Change is hard. But at least she is a girl and not a male to really make Hank feel threatened.
In time they will really enjoy each other.
In time.
The look on Maisie's face is pure Maisie. It's nice that The sheriff has a deputy. I think he'll train her well.
That wasn't meant to be anonymous, it was me...
Welcome June! You've landed in one of the best spots on earth there is.
But....Hank 9?....Masie 5?
Slow down time.
June ~ you are one lucky pup! Hank will be an amazing mentor for you. And, believe it or not, Betsy, Eli & Comby have a lot of knowledge to share with you! The Adventure Chickens are really quite talented. You have lots to learn ~ and your heritage will prove a valuable asset. Welcome! By the way, you have a beautiful face :-)
Hank - You are No. 1 Dog! You'll be glad to have an assistant. It will be okay.
Hank and June, perfect!
June is a beauty and I hope that Hank loves her in the end. My Frodo is 8 years old, I cannot believe that!!
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