Filling big shoes

 I say that Tansy has some big shoes to fill, but her feet are already quite large... In fact, at a mere six months old, she rivals all of our other dogs in size. She will be the biggest dog here, no question! But what of her skills? My other dogs set the bar high. These short stories give an example of how confident and watchful Tansy is, and how she has already learned to very intuitively help in big situations for such a young dog! 
 Tansy has been watching the big dogs for some time now. She knows when it's time to do what and how. The other day, my daughter was getting hay and feed to take out of the barn and move to a different pasture when two cows and a horse came to "investigate." Well, as one might predict, this "investigation" quickly turned into an interrogation and full-out mugging with no room for negotiation!  This situation could have even been dangerous without quick moves and thinking.  My daughter was quick and let Tansy in through the gate.  And Tansy wasted no time! She promptly fanned back and forth between my daughter (Arianna) and the cows and horse navigating more and more space for her charge and the precious commodities while Arianna drug everything out with no further molesting. Then Tansy cheerfully came back up through the gate following her charge back to the other pasture. 
  Counter this short episode with an even shorter one. Lorna's pups are getting around a bit more these days. Tansy and Lorna and Winter all work together very well in caring for them. Benji watches a little ways off supervising and letting the girls do their thing. One little pup escaped the pen, and Tansy gently and carefully herded the pup in place and back towards the pen by licking. I didn't even notice until I looked at Lorna's (who was in the pen with me) intense face trying to see behind me! There is the versatility of these dogs in skills and ability. Intuition for both toddling pups and large beasts in groups. 
  Tansy has been tough and a thinker from the beginning. And sweet as pie! Her style is eager, and she very much wants to please. She is undaunted! A golden streak of superdog soaring by to save the day! We have many things to still work on, but so far I am very impressed by her grit and skills, intuition, and gentleness. Time to hug my dog! 
 

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