Dog Show Fix

Argus is smiling - he got to go to a dog show!

Nope not fixed dog show, but dog show fix.  Argus & I have been sitting home for six weeks while he recovers from an injury, or injuries.  We've done four vet visits, x-rays and exams, controlled walking, some treadmilling, Theraball work, chiropractic, acupuncture, massage, and Arthisoothe Gold.  We've also changed Argie's routine so that Ron no longer sends Argus out - he has trouble controlling the dogs when they see a squirrel in the yard so they tend to race across the deck slipping and sliding, and fling themselves off the deck.  We've had some minor injuries in the past, so we've made some changes here.  I also installed a "baffle" at the bottom of the deck steps so the dogs have to slow down before racing to the dog yard.

After the last vet visit which included acupuncture, Argus was no longer lifting up his right rear leg when he stopped.  He's been doing that occasionally all summer, but it got much worse in late August, and we could not find the reason.  Finally Dr. A tried acupuncture down his spine and in certain places on that hip.  He has not held that foot up since then, and his topline looks better too.  Whatever it takes!  Magic, even!

So yesterday we gave it a try and drove down to Mason City to show to a judge we have never even seen before.  Not sure what made me enter the show a month ago, wishful thinking I guess.  I take this seriously and try to think positive.  I KNOW my dog is good, and I just hoped that his issues were treatable.   Even after 6 weeks off he was still ranked #6 in Group points and #3 in breed points, despite being shown far less than most of the others, who are with professional handlers and often shown every weekend.  I spent a lot of time "loosening" him up before we showed and he felt great in the breed and wagged his tail furiously as the judge - he was obviously glad to be back.  Another good performance in the group, and when we were "pulled" I was pleased to have made the cut.  When she pointed to us for FIRST, I knew all the work had paid off.