[Michele McAtee]

I recently signed onto membership here, thanks to referral by Mike Schoonbrood (thank you thank you). I do like what I see here, new, different, familiar...excellent knowledge base for someone like me, trying to learn as much as I can about a variety of topics. I definately do hold the German Shepherd dogs in high regard. Of course, I do like other dogs, but, well, you know, call it favoritism :lol:

I am the owner of a GSD, 5 1/2 years old, MoJo Buddy Biaier. His mother was an import from Germany, titled SchH II and Father a show dog here in the states. His pedigree, unfortunately, is (accidently) locked in the file cabinet and I cannot find the key! I will be making an effort to drill it, get a replacement key or something because I do have questions about his line.

MoJo was recently diagnosed with Kidney Disease, unknown etiology, unknown progression. The vets believe this is a genetic issue, that the dog was \"born with bad kidneys\". I am on a journey now, one that is different than the one I had previously with this dog, but I am learning.

I recently left my job at a railroad here in Iowa, dispatching trains over a 600 mile territory. I did this so I could stay home with my 2 year old son. Also, so I could work more for Tahitian Noni International. I also work as a verifier from home.

One of my dreams is to pack up the family and dedicate my life, to a ranch in Wyoming, Montana or something, train dogs and have a horse or 2, oh, and have my Vet degree. But, in reality, I love my life and live it to its fullest here in Iowa. I work hard and play hard.

Glad to be here, looking forward to the insight I know you all have to offer. Will post some pics later. I'm still working on the photo shop.

~Michele

 

[Connie Sutherland]

Michele

WELCOME!

Pictures will be great! We like pictures here, don't we, everybody?

BTW, Michele, if there is anything I can give you along the lines of nutrition research (for kidney problems), please post in Diet & Health. I'll give you what I've researched, and there might be other members with personal experience, too.

Welcome!

 

[Michele McAtee]

Another thing, I forgot to add previously, (DUH me)
my interest in training is obedience and schutzhund.
I work MoJo daily with obedience (and a bit of amateur agility).
As for the schutzhund, I am learning everything I can about it now so I can maybe pursue it with my next dog. From what I understand though, Iowa is pretty scarce with the clubs.
I was told early on by an evaluator that MoJo wasn't schH material (due to his having \"failed\" the umbrella test) and I did not challenge the evaluator or seek further consult. That was when MoJo was 6 mos old. I did not know a lot then, and am still learning now. I do know I admire those of you active in the sport and thank you for sharing your knowledge/experiences.

 

[Hil Harrison]

Welcome here Michele

Connie you are a pic addict .........you need some help :lol: :lol: :lol: Maybe you couldsign up with PA( PIC ANONYMUS) I hear they have weekly sessions