Dock Diving!

I told you Mom had something great planned for me today! We went dock diving.

We had to get up VERY early, which I wasn't too happy about. It is Saturday and I love to sleep in, so I was very grouchy. Luckily we had a long drive, so I got to catch some Z's while Mom got us there. We were one of the first people there, so we sat in the car for a while. I was so excited to see all the other dogs around, I even started whining a little. When we got out this lady with a pretty German Shepherd came up to us. She told Mom how cute I am, only the first of many throughout the day :) And then she introduced us to her dog, Puddin. Puddin is also a career-changed guide dog, but from a different school than me. We hung out with them all day and hopefully we will be able to see each other again, Puddin is a really cool girl!

Once we registered we got to have 2 hours of practice. Mom and I went onto the dock three times for practice. The first time I ran right into the water and then got really nervous because I didn't know how to get out and I couldn't see Mom over the dock. Luckily she came quickly and showed me the stairs, but after that I wasn't too sure about that whole diving thing. I liked to dive off the steps, but that isn't allowed. On our third practice run I was tugging on my toy and it ripped so Puddin's mom let us borrow her Wubba. Thank goodness she was there to save the day!

Then it came time for competition. There were 14 dogs there and they broke us up into 2 groups. There were all types of dogs, mostly Labs, but a few Labradoodles, mixes, Pointers, a golden, a Rottweiler and, of course, Puddin. Mom and I were in the first group, fifth slot. My first jump I hit the steps, so it didn't count, but my second jump Mom stood near the steps so I had to jump into the water. The judges gave me 3 feet for that! Unfortunately I didn't win, either the event or my level. The Rottie beat me in our level, novice, and one of the Pointers won overall with a jump of over 24 feet!

We only stayed for the one Wave, because Mom wanted to head home. I think I would have liked it better if it was just plain swimming, but maybe we'll try again soon. And now for what you all probably want, pictures:



Waiting to compete.



Up on the dock.



My jump. I tried so hard for the steps, but that fence blocked me!



I sure loved the swimming, though!



My pal, Puddin. She was so good, she got over 10 feet!



This is the dog that won. Look how high he is!



Look at my cool ribbon!

I slept the entire drive home. I was just so tired! When we got back Mom gave me a bath to get all the pool chemicals off my coat. Then she clipped my nails, cleaned my ears, and brushed me. She even gave me extra dinner WITH yogurt mixed in for being such a good girl! I really should try this diving thing more often...