Nova's Project 3

Throughout the past few days, I haven't blogged as much as I should have because my days have been so busy and I've been waiting to compile all the information in to one post. On last Friday, I gave my last two school presentations; I had Hawken Lower School in the morning and US Lower School in the afternoon. Both sets of students were perfectly behaved, Nova did well, and it brought back a lot of nostalgia for my time at the middle school, and of giving my chapel talk in the same place as my dog presentation. Here are some pictures of my setting up and delivering the presentation at Hawken Lower:

After the second presentation of the day, we were both pretty worn out, and we headed home. It was really great to see what an impact my speaking had on all of the kids at the different schools.

Saturday, I started my summer job, where I'm managing and lifeguarding at a pool in Hudson! I'm going to be working there a ton this summer, and I'll have Nova there with me. This being said, it's incredibly important that he be well behaved and comfortable at this pool, and know not to try to jump in. Nova did very well, and although he did get pretty hot, he behaved and the summer is looking good.

Sunday, I went to a couple of different private lessons with Amy. Nova worked on his 'down-stay' on a mat with another dog there too(!) and some free time that he shared at another client's house with her dog. It's very cool to see how Amy works with all her different clientelle to try to solve each unique situation for the dog handlers.

Monday, I had work again, and the pool was packed. Nova did well, though, and Amy had nothing scheduled because of the holiday. We called it quits early and rested up. Amy has recommended several methods of crate training that I try to teach Nova before the summer ends and I leave for college.

Today, Tuesday, we woke up early and helped Amy with a private lesson in a nearby polo field. The dogs worked on heeling obedience and ended the lesson very well, passing each other wihtout acknowledging one another. As I finish typing this, I will soon be heading to another class in a different field (assuming the rain holds off) to work on long-distance recalls!