What? You haven't heard of dock diving?? It's only the coolest sport around for those hot summer months! When a sport involves you, your dog, toys, a huge pool and lots of hoots and hollers you know it's going to be fun! After the first half of this year's shenanigans, I couldn't wait to see these dogs. My favorite is the beginner classes. Watching the dogs go from maaaaaybe sticking their paw in the water to full on diving off the dock is what summer is all about for me. I'm not a big fan of the heat so being where there's lots of splashing (and I mean LOTS of splashing sometimes) is a good end to the day. Look at the pride on Cane's face! He just accomplished something huge - getting that toy out of the water! I think he's most proud of the fact that he did it without even getting wet! This dog just learned that it's ok to actually get in the water to get her toy. Myra might not be the most graceful of swimmers yet, but she'll get there. (Did I mention there could be a LOT of splashing?!) Watching these dogs is like watching a two year old. They're so very unsure, but they want so badly to please. Everyone is cheering for them (usually quite loudly) and they'll look up at the source of encouragement, then at their dog mom or dad, and then at the water again. You can see their brain going in all directions wanting to do it, but not knowing exactly how or not quite having the guts yet. It took three lessons and constant encouragement from her pet parents, but Phoebe finally made it into the water. After that all she wanted to do was swim with her dog dad. Once the dogs are confident in the water, they head to the dock. This is where the real fun begins. Talk about doggie thoughts firing in all directions. Once they've made that first jump though, they can't get enough. As much as I love the classic jumps off the docks, for me it's the "behind the scenes" pictures. Even if they aren't technically up to standards as far as photography goes, I love the moments captured between the dog and those encouraging their progress. It makes my heart swim. ;O) This is the second year that Paws Pet Resort has offered dock diving classes and they fill up fast, so check them out if you're interested. They also have Open Swim days for dogs who are just wanting to practice their skills, and Try It Days for those who just want to try out the dock. The theme for this week's 52 Weeks blog circle is... you guessed it, water! See what seasonally refreshing stories other pet photographers have to share starting with Terri J Photography, photographing your pet in the Greater Toronto Area. Comments are closed.
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Quoted...I can't really get them to say "cheese," but I can almost always make them smile. -Kelly Categories
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