Chica, the lead dog

Walking Chica, I am often reminded of a poster I used to see in Whitehorse - A view from behind a sled dog with the caption: If you're not the lead dog, the view never changes. Chica is obviously the lead dog because this is my usual view.

The photo was taken back in December before the snow.

Thank you to Steve and Martha

I was sick from a stupid cold for a week. Luckily, Steve D. was in town. He took Chica out everyday, twice a day, as usual while I was under the weather. It was so cold. It would have been so ghastly to go out in that. Even poor Chica was favouring one foot and then another. Martha was here on the weekend and she took over Chica-walking duties. She said - You do this every day, twice a day? I said yes, but I enjoy it. (I didn't say EXCEPT when it is minus minus minus!!!) as it was for a couple of the days that Martha was here.

My wonderful organizer has volunteered to take care of Chica while Martha and I are visiting our cousin Debbie in Phoenix. (of course, Chica has to get along with her family's two dogs). Keep your fingers crossed that Chica will be personable.

Chica cone

When Chica visited at Hal and Leena's at New Year's, she got something in her eye. We took her to the Altavista Emergency Vet the next day back here in Ottawa and they prescribed antibiotics and an e-collar (cone). She had to wear it for a week. It was sad, but even so, hilarity ensued. She bumped into me constantly, plowed the snow as she sniffed, etc. I could not find my camera during that period, so I slipped it back over her head just a week ago (jan. 27) for this photo. She was so adorable and good-natured about having to wear it - no whining at all.

Notice the severely cat-scratched couch to her left.

Tagish is relaxed around the dog

Skookum is relaxing in the living room

Both of the boys are getting used to having a dog (predator) in the family.

Bruce Pit

Steve and I took Chica for a walk in Bruce Pit after one of the first snowfalls of the year. This photo gives a feeling for the place.

Chewy bone from Hal and Leena

Chica has a good chew with her Christmas gift from Hal and Leena.

Chica shines in her new reflective vest

I got this vest, called a Lab Coat, before the snow fell. It is not as reflective as one vest I saw on the Internet, but they weren't selling that one anymore. This one is from Bark and Fitz. She and I went to the store together after a run at Bruce Pit and the sales clerk helped us to find the right size. She is not easy to fit because she is broad in the chest and so slim in the tummy area.

Christmas gift from Pirkko

Pirkko sent a special Christmas gift for Chica all the way from Finland. Chica loved it! It didn't take her long to destroy it. There is still a part of the toy left. We play tug-of-war with it.