I
took my first *real* 1/2 day off in almost 2 months today, and <gasp> rode
Gavilan! Yes, it's true, I really rode and had a nice 2 hour trek through the
mountains... after hearing about others adventures daily, it was a real
treat.
The other treat was the companionship of Riley, my
rescued Rhodesian Ridgeback. I adopted Riley, a handsome, muscular 5 year old
male, the same day I had to put my good dog, Sammy down, on September 24th.
Riley came swathed in caveats and disclaimers, was offered for rescue with many
warnings, more than in usual for a rescued dog, and we've worked through most of
his aloofness and fear based aggression to uncover a delightfully
affectionate and warm puppy, and I suspect that it was a
side he hadn't had a chance to express as a young show dog... all
in all, he's 95% perfect - the 5% will always be worrisome... Sammy spoiled me,
and given the chance, Riley will keep me spoiled.
I
love this hound.. I chose Ridgebacks after talking to Lari Shea,
who bred them and raved about them. I ride in the Mendocino mountains,
have back-door access to many miles on private trails and roads. Not
only is this land remote and beautiful, it's the home to mountain lions &
bears, so I won't ride too far without the company of a Riley or another
rider. Riley stays near by, doesn't chase the deer or game,
can easily keep up with out gallops and canters, and his presence is very
reassuring to Gavilan.
I
talked to my rescue contact last week; she says there 7 ridgebacks
available for adoption in Northern California... Lari Shea has raved about these
hounds for years, and if you're interested in giving yourself a wonderful
Christmas Present... check out the web site. http://www.ridgeback.org/html/dogs_available.html
Cheers - Linda
Linda Cowles
Horse 'N
Hound
New,
Consigned & Used Tack
9155 North State St. #13,
Redwood Valley, CA 95470
EASY access with Hwy 101
frontage!
Shop:
707-485-0347
Fax: 707-485-0453
