Memories To Last A Lifetime
by Cheri O'Neal
Reflecting back on my own childhood memories of sharing my growing years with our family dogs brought both smiles and tears. I can close my eyes now and picture them by my side under the weeping willow tree. We shared ice cream cones, played ball and chase and even managed to turn over the can of blue paint on the kitchen floor. They are precious memories that never fade.
I believe a special bond exists between children and their dogs. We can always tell them our deepest secrets and know it's safe with them. How often have we heard of therapy dogs visiting hospitals to cheer sick children and their faces light up with delight? Autistic children who have a difficult time relating and communicating with adults can make remarkable progress with canine therapy dogs.
For the past 6 ½ years I have had the pleasure to be involved with my first herding breed, the Polish Lowland Sheepdog, commonly referred to as a PON. Known for their intelligence and keen herding instinct, they are loyal loving family dogs, but do require an in-charge human leader.
Several years ago a family came by to meet our PONs. Their children were 18 months and 3 years old. Our oldest PON decided the toddler should not walk down the hallway to the bedrooms, so as he was making his way in that direction, she got between him and the door and used her body to bump and herd him back in the direction of his parents. She repeated this behavior as the older boy went toward the piano. Since the PON is a medium-sized herding dog, the concern for very young children, is that a rambunctious young puppy easily herds them. Prospective PON owners need to consider the ages and activity level of their children in selecting the appropriate breed for their family.
When the resident Golden Retriever at Villa Maria Academy in Exton, PA. failed to drive a flock of 100 Canadian Geese from the school's hockey field, they called on a PON to do the "job". With the teams of 10-12 year old girls looking on, they watched in amazement as Flospy's natural herding instinct went into action. For the next 5 days at 7 a.m. when the geese arrived, Flopsy herded them into flight, honking and making a big fuss. This was an excellent opportunity for these children to see a dog performing the task for which it was bred. The geese never returned and Flopsy is a school legend.
Almost 4 years ago I met a very shy 13-year-old young lady who was interested in Junior Showmanship with her PON. After her first show she was very discouraged but with urging from her extended PON family, she continued to work hard to improve her skills. We have all been very proud of her accomplishments in Juniors. She learned how to be a gracious winner and a good loser. With every show she gained poise and confidence. We watched her blossom and mature before our eyes. With her best friend by her side, she moves around the ring like the professional she has become.
When I received the request for the June column to celebrate the bond between children and their purebred dogs, I did not realize what a flood of beautiful and treasured memories would come back to me.