Frisky Husky

Rain is in the forecast for the next two days, so even though it wasn't a pretty day, I took the opportunity to get out on the trails this afternoon with Maya, TJ, and Trooper. We went about five miles. That was plenty for Trooper and we let him set the pace. Trooper is a solid and a steady walker, whereas TJ wants to stop every 10 feet to sniff and mark.

It was cloudy but the temperature was back up to the 40s and I was back in shorts. We had the trails to ourselves. No deer spottings, but Maya did pick up some scents.

Five miles was plenty for Trooper, he's not a
young dog anymore, but he's a trooper. He
held up well and he really wanted to go. 

What was really obvious today was how much TJ loved this weather, including the icy streams. I remarked before that he seemed sure-footed on the ice and the difference between him and Trooper today was striking. Trooper walked slowly and carefully, toes spread wide, trying to get whatever grip he could. TJ just danced across the ice, completely comfortable and at ease, clearly in his element. After we crossed the partially frozen stream he was positively frisky, jumping around playfully like a pup, as if this was the most fun he had had in years. I actually look forward to taking him out in the snow sometime when we get a few inches at least and it sticks around for a few days.

TJ and Trooper are both blowing coat, so both boys had a grooming session when we got home. I hope some enterprising birds gather it up for winter nests.

The dogs had stopped to sniff something important so I dropped the leashes and walked on ahead.
When Maya realized I wasn't attached anymore she brought the two boys along to catch up.

I do love walking three dogs.

Here's one of the stream crossings. There was ice but also
some flowing water, but it's not deep enough to matter even
if you step in. The bigger risk is slipping.