Monday, August 20, 2012

Calla's Ring Debut



whippet breeder
Bo-Bett O'Calla Lily of Hickory Tavern Farm

This was a very special weekend for us. Calla injured her front leg last November, and eventually it required surgery in April. 6 weeks of total crate rest was followed by several more weeks of hand walking. In the summer, she was given clearance to resume exercising on the leg and her first weeks found her very short of breath after running. My heart stopped every time I watched her jump off the sofa, but Dr Dyce had given the ok for her to resume her previous activities. It was hard to watch! I felt like her plated leg was more fragile than it really was but I eventually learned to let her play hard and run fast. She got into beautiful condition, stayed sound, and I finally entered her in a few dog shows.

With a tear in my eye, I proudly showed Calla to RWB at her first two shows, starting her show career after a long and questionable layoff. For months, I was uncertain whether she would ever recover enough to be a show dog and prove to the world just how beautiful she is, but this weekend turned a corner for Calla and me. Now it's time to hit the road in pursuit of her Championship.

Calla

Justin Smithey with BIS GCh. Bo-Bett's Speed Demon and sister Calla.

Calla

Demon

Justin in the Best In Show ring with Demon

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