The 12 O'Clock Dog

At first glance, you'd think this post is about the horses, but actually it's about Reba. When I go do chores, she is my constant companion. She's right there, making sure they behave. Tess, on the other hand, tends to work from farther away; she has a big outrun, and is more biddable and more likely to wait to see what I want instead of working close in like Reba does.

Reba always balances at the 12 o'clock position, no matter which way I turn.

Which is why I call her the 12 o'clock dog.

She always grabs a mouthful of whatever is handy, usually grass or sticks, it seems she can't work without something in her mouth. If she was human I'm sure she would be a smoker!

Sometimes it backfires, and the hunter becomes the hunted....

and then discretion is the better part of valor and it's time to beat a hasty retreat.

I have used her to move cattle and she will get in close and work them when she is asked, but like a good li'l collie she'd rather bring them to me than drive them away.

She will be 11 years old this September, and she is fit and active. I wish I could get another litter from her, she only had 2, but she doesn't come in heat any more, too old I guess.