All jacked up

This past weekend, Missouri Earthdogs put on their annual Memorial Day Bash. At the bash you compete in events such as go to ground, barn hunting, and lure coursing. It's pretty much the best thing ever. One of the highlights of the event is the lure course racing. Jack Russell's come from all over to race, and dear lord, those dogs can fly. If you ever get a chance to see an event like this, go!

You can see a video of some different racing events here, so you can get an idea of what the Jacks can do.

For the past three years, Mo Earthdogs has included dachshunds into their events. My short legged little kids could never race like the Jacks, but they still enjoy chasing the lure. This year a local photographer captured some great pictures of the dachshund racing. Now, I particularly want you to pay attention to frame 55 and frame 56.

Bettina Woolbright Photography

Yes, , that is Neville. Neville had never seen hurdles before, and came to a dead stop in the middle of the race. It was the funniest thing I have ever seen. While the Jacks launched themselves over the hurdles like little springy showoffs, Neville had to boost himself over one.leg.at.a.time. We call the dachshund lure course racing the 'comedic relief' of the trial. To make matters worse, Neville's girlfriend Stella beat him in hurdles and flats. Heh.

To make up for our less than spectacular racing results, Zoe took the championship title in Dachshund Go To Ground for the third year in a row. She also championed in dachshund barn hunting, and completed her AWTA Certificate of Gameness. This meant to much to me, especially after almost loosing her this spring. Way to go Zoe. Neville ribboned a few things too, but I didn't write it down and I'm not sure what ribbon went to what event. I would be the worst mother, I swear.


Dyllan and Bitsy were amazing cheerleaders....Bitsy actually lost her voice by Sunday.
(My dream come true...)

Also, Taj and Raja are here! I don't think I've introduced Taj and Raja to you yet. They're two spunky little dachshunds owned by my good friends. They will be spending two months with my herd this summer while their people go to India to visit family. They were just dropped off today and I'm watching Neville, Taj, and Raja chase each other all over the house. I LOVE these dogs...they are quite the little characters. We will be having lots of adventures with them over the next two months. As soon as I remember to buy batteries for my camera I will do a proper introduction.

I'm also working on a project I've been thinking up for Mr. Taj on the blog.....more to come on that later. ; )