Wisconsin Life_ Down by the river

Yes we're still hiking and exploring in new venues....the dogs wouldn't stand for anything less. We've discovered a lot of new places to wander of late. Yesterday, it was off for a walk in the marsh to reach the river.

My daughter Marja invited us to join her on one of her trails for some fun dog time and photo ops.

The trail was a very pleasant surprise.

With tall marsh grasses...

Flocks of pelicans...

And most importantly, lots of silty river banks with great access for swimming for the dogs...

And the scenery was wild and stunning...

Even though a few rain drops fell for a short time...

All this hiking with the dogs lately has really made me appreciate Wisconsin.

There are still places where the dogs can run free and play.

And even roll in rotten, stinky dead fish...Charm!

Back into the river for Charm.

Domino still has to be on a leash because he thinks he is the great and fearless hunting dog of the north sometimes.

No, his collar is not used for control, its for the noise correction for an over-obsession with anything that might live in a hole in the ground. Domino has the focus of the single-minded sometimes.

And a true talent for getting as muddy as possible.

But he is best at pit gator impressions.

While Charm is the best otter impersonator.

She loves playing hide and seek in the tall grass.

Then it was off to what we like to call the local dog park...Marja's house where Charm enjoyed some playtime with Ashlynn.

And Domino got to roll around with someone as sturdy as him.

We did pick up a tick or two along the way...do they make a super heavy duty frontline?

Then it was playtime for all the dogs.

Charm is a changed dog and socializing very well after training. And Domino is always my happy, happy boy!

Matter of fact, for the first time ever, Domino did not obsess over the papillon at obedience class, even if he was right next to it. He was all manners, manners, manners. Domino was so good he got lots of compliments and I have to admit this training class has really worked well for him. All the chihuahuas of the world can breathe a sigh of relief! Domino has figured out that they are dogs and not chipmunks. YAY!