Star

When I was nine years old, my dad and I headed out to the far off town of Coeur d’ Alene in search of a new puppy. We arrived at the home of the owner of two litters of puppies. One tiny fluff ball was outside of the kennel and I immediately scooped her up into my arms. The tiny puppy cuddled into my arms, happy to remain there as long as possible. I socialized with the 14 or so other puppies but that first little female Border Collie had stolen my heart. I had decided, before ever even seeing the puppies, that I would name my new dog “Star”. So that afternoon, I brought “Star” to her new home. As the years passed, it became obvious that Star was less than interested in anything I or my other family members did. I even took obedience and agility classes with her. To my dismay, she was the most unenthusiastic participant in the class. I was nicknamed, the “cheerleader”, because of the way I had to be so overly energetic just to get Star to move out of a lazy walk. Despite my jubilant attitude, on the final day of class, Star demonstrated the full amount of her interest in agility. As I directed her to run through a long curved tunnel, she lumbered in and proceeded to lie down in the middle. Needless to say, I have not attempted to do any other such activities with Star.

Star may not have an interest in competitive ventures, but she is always more than ready to entertain the guests here at the ranch. I cannot think of a more perfect guest ranch dog. As soon as an unknown car arrives in the parking lot, Star arrives to greet the newcomers and show them the way to the lodge. For those guests who stay in a cabin, they have the special treat of an adopted dog for the duration of their stay. Are you interested in going for a scenic hike on the ranch? Star will be more than willing to show you the way. Would you like to spend some time lounging about the landscaped yard? Well, Star will make sure that you never bore. A game of sticks will certainly be on her agenda.

Star’s version of sticks may be a little different from what you have played with other dogs. First of all, she always has to have the perfect “hiding spot” to crouch in while you throw the stick and to return to after retrieving her stick. This hiding spot may or may not be near your location. Second, you mustn’t throw the stick too far, because, remember, she is almost 13 years old and doesn’t enjoy running about to retrieve her sticks. Thirdly, you mustn’t throw it in the wrong spot or she will simply wait for you to retrieve it and throw it again in the correct direction. Don’t worry. If this seems confusing to you at all, Star is sure to have you trained by the end of your visit.