Doggone Squirrels…
My Sheltie Willie loves squirrels. Well, he actually doesn’t love them, but he loves to chase ‘em. His love of this ‘sport’ and his obsession to round up anything with legs (Shelties love to herd!) has actually been a factor in reducing the number of squirrels in our immediate vicinity. They seem far more comfortable now to remain on the perimiter of the yard in the edges of the woods where Willie’s electronic collar won’t let him go.
Our yard is large, so when we do see a squirrel outside, it’s treat time for the pooch! We whisper excitedely, “Squirrel, Willie!” and he begins to twirl like a ballerina in exquisite anticipation! After about 30 seconds of this, we gently open the door and he shoots out like a bullet…as soon as the squirrels hear him they bolt, and once they do, Willie’s on the job! He chases them to the edge of the yard, and once they are across the line, he marches around all fluffed up and proud as a peacock!
This is kind of a nice arrangement! Unlike a cat, he won’t bring any bloody carcasses to the back door (I don’t think so, anyway!). It’s a win-win for all parties….we keep the furry rodents at bay, Willie gets some exercise and some fun, and the squirrels? Well, they get the thrill of the chase and the satisfaction of knowing they outsmarted that dog once again. At least they think they have.
All in a day’s work! Now, if he could just do the same for the moles….
