12/11/2025
Today, we witness a significant milestone in Birdie’s life: she has officially,fully transitioned to a life off-leash. This moment brings to mind the song “Send Me on My Way” by Rusted Root, a piece that resonates deeply. It embodies a spirit of joy and wanderlust, celebrating the journey of life, the pursuit of connection, freedom, and hope!
The essence of the song speaks to the importance of embracing challenges. For our situation, it encapsulates the discipline required in training, the perseverance to overcome obstacles, and ultimately, the rewards that follow. Birdie’s parents have navigated their initial fears, demonstrating that their concerns about her safety off-leash have now become unfounded.
The lyrics convey a yearning for exploration and companionship, urging us to reach out, to connect, and to venture into the unknown hand-in-hand (read that as hand and paw!) This is precisely what we have achieved together! As a dog trainer, my purpose is to impart the skills necessary for owners to facilitate this journey. I find immense fulfillment in this role—truly, I believe I have the best job in the world.
Attached to this post are three photographs captured by Birdie’s owners, Mike and Nancy, depicting a moment of Birdie giving me a hug. This ritual has become a cherished part of our training sessions, but today, it feels particularly poignant. The images reflect a profound sense of connection and gratitude emanating from Birdie. I know she grasps the freedom she now possesses to explore our world, while we embrace the reassurance that we can keep her safe, no matter the distractions or distances involved.
In this exchange, we grant them the gift of freedom, and in return, they provide us with peace of mind. Our relationship is built on trust and respect—a bond that is not only invaluable but essential for the flourishing of both dog and owner. ❤️
