@Megan Julian 's borzoi pup and my whippet!

I haven't had a chance to edit or fully review, but the class videos from tuesday are posted in the classroom. Definitely go watch baby Haru's.... ;)

Tell us all your training fun - big or little wins! I’ll go first: Mollee walked politely on a leash twice in public. If you know of her enthusiasm, you know that’s a big deal. (I also got my first shin splint in 20+ years running in my chacos…) And y’all?

(Shared in our Conservation class notes, too!) Sometimes, gorgeous moments appear in front of your eyes and you thank the scent work gods! In class last week, this beautifully clear example of "change of behavior" and sourcing appeared, thanks to Mango and some quality wind. While the "Trained Final Response" is oftentimes said to be the goal, "Change of Behavior" is really what clues the humans in that our dogs are approaching 'source' and what we'll most frequently see. Yes, we can then support our dogs if we need to - no clocks or judges in conservation! In last week's Conservation Detection class, Mango painted a glorious picture of what "change of behavior" looks like, followed by some gorgeous sourcing. Well done, Mango and @Kellie Bambach!!!

So much to chat about, BUT we've got all sorts of fun to chat about: Concentrate Media published a really lovely piece about us: https://concentratemedia.com/ann-arbor-resident-trains-michigan-conservation-dogs-to-sniff-out-invasive-species/ Our first workshop at the MI Folk School was sold out and a ton of fun! I have some ideas about classroom set up for the next one in October. If you or anyone you know wants to know all the things going through my brain when it comes to community- or operation-ready detection dogs, it's a great way to plug in. Only $25! Link to register is here: https://www.mifolkschool.com/classes My abstract was accepted to EGLE's sustainability conference, MISCON, all about Conservation Detection dogs and their (wide) range of skills. Mollee absolutely stole the show and I'm sure she's the reason we got a bunch of compliments. ;) I have some upcoming convos with DNR, Washtenaw Co Parks & Rec collabs, grant writing, research opps, and another presentation at the annual Conservation District conference for all of Michigan. And some training for all of us! I'm VERY ready for better training temps and lots of running in large areas....