(Sir "C" and his SDiT, Marley 4/08- this award-winning photo taken by Princess "C")

(12/7/08 update)

Marley is continuing to do great.  We have had a chicken issue on the farm, but she isn't the only dog with a taste for chicken.  After the first of the year we will begin tethering Marley to Sir "C" and training her on the specific tasks she will do for him. 

(11/1/08 update)

Marley went to our churches fall festival last week and I jsut have to brag on her.   I could never have anticipated the crowd that was present.  We literally had to weave our way down the isles.  Marley did fantastic.  THere was a loose dog that ran up to Marley and she had no reaction.  THere were several other leashed dogs and she completley ignored them.  Kids were running up to her and grabbing her and petting her and she was so patient and kind.  SHe went on a ride in a horse drawn wagon and never reacted to the horses although I have to admit she was VERY curious.   Over all, I would definitely say this was a successful training session!

(9/12/08 update)

Dear family and friends,

I have needed to do an update for a while especially in the last two weeks.  We ended up raising the necessary funds for Marley's surgery.  Again, I can't thank you all enough for your support and funding.  Marley went in for surgery on 7/1/08 and the surgeon re-examined her.  Upon examination the surgeon felt that perhpas the diagnosis was incorrect.  He did a neurological exam but at that point she has already had her loopy meds for the surgery (ACE).  Instead of performing the TPLO we opted to scope.  Everything was normal but he recommended Marley see a Neurologist after a 30 day recovery.  After a couple of weeks we began to slowly conditioning her.

Marley finally went to the neurologist on 8/25/08 and was given a clean bill of health.  She gains strength and stamina every day after having been confined to a crate for so long.  We are now beginning ber training starting with basic obedience.  

As promised the remaining funds were were sent to North Texas German Shepherd Rescue.   We sent them a total of 377.00 on 8/25/2008.  We sincerely thank them for allowing us to partner with them to raise the funds for Marley's surgery.  We know the extra funds will go on to greatly benefit other GSDs rescued through this wonderful organization.

We would appreciate your ongoing prayers as we train Marley to help Sir "C" with his special needs. 

On a final note, please check this page often as I will add new training notes to the top of the page as her training progresses.

Thank you alll again. 

Michael and Brandi

on behalf of Sir "C" and Marley (SDiT)