Aunt Tasha was a sable sheltie who owned a house about an hour's drive up the coast, in Camarillo. She had many champions in her pedigree, but I didn't know anything about the American Kennel Club or registration at that time. I just thought she was the most beautiful dog I knew. (To view any of the pictures on this page full-size, just click on the image. To return to this page press your Browser's [BACK] button). Her herding skill and prowess (which of course is the hallmark of our breed) was legendary, even among shelties. One of ner most famous accomplishments was arresting a terrifying buffalo stampede in Wyoming, probably saving an entire town from destruction (photos at right).

Although she spent most of her life in Southern California, she had traveled extensively throughout the West, even as far East as Minnesota, and lived in Colorado Springs for three years. She imparted many of her Colorado memories to me, including a mysterious condition known as "snow". Some of those "snow" pictures are at the bottom of the columns. She tried hard to help me understand the concept, but I still don't think I really get it, even with the pictures.

I remember those early visits to Camarillo and Aunt Tasha fondly. She was already at a very advanced age when I came along but even though we only had a short time together, she taught me many of the most important things a dog needs to know. Posture and positions on furniture and various floor surfaces are central to the nature of canine being and Aunt Tasha had attained mastery of all aspects of that. I do what I can to carry on the tradition and hope that she would have been proud of me.