Brag for my Husband

[Ann Felske-Jackman]

I'd like to take the time to sing the praises of my husband. As most know, we met five years ago when Yngo caught my eye at a show I was attending here in Canada. At the time, he told me that he was going to put a SchH3 on the dog. Knowing that he'd only shown in conformation, and put the odd CD on a dog, I was skeptical at best. As time when on, I came to realize not only how dedicated Mike was to Yngo, but that the relationship the two of them shared was truly unique. We were lucky enough to find an outstanding trainer, and away they went. When Thomas moved back to Germany and Mike announced that he would NOT be switching to a trainer who wanted him to use compulsion in his training, I searched out even more resources, but became increasingly worried that they might not reach their goal.

Most impressive to me was that, in addition to the intensive training (obedience daily, tracking 3-4 times/week, driving four hours for bitework), Mike was in the process of fulfilling his judging requirements, was getting ready to put a daughter through university, and continued to put up with his demanding new wife <g> (While trying to support Mike's efforts, I did manage to throw a lot of obstacles in their path... c'mon, let's just get him finished in the US... can I interrupt training and take him for the CD/CDX?... by the way, you have to skip that trial since we have a bitch coming in for breeding...).

Last October, Yngo earned his Schutzhund 3 title, completely owner-handled and with all positive training. This past week, we were thrilled to receive Mike's SchH3 club letter. That was the brag that I was going to send today. But now I have one more...

Mike decided to support the club that we recently joined with an FH entry. For the first time, I told Mike that I didn't think they were ready. Yngo struggles with tracking under the best of circumstances. An FH was a stretch goal. An FH in hot weather was unthinkable. But, Mike was determined (at the Sieger show he judged last week, he disappeared into the park during the break. Seems that he and Larry Bzdon had some tracking to do ;-). I bugged Mike for a few days, and we finally came to the agreement that he'd pull if it was going to be too hot. The trial was Saturday. I'm not sure exactly how hot it was... the weather on the bank at 7:15 was 88 degrees and they hit the tracking field at 10:00. They then had to walk the distance of an FH, in the hot sun, just to get to the start. The grass was over Yngo's back so we didn't get to see much. Nonetheless, everyone gathered around, saying little prayers for Yngo and Mike, although we were all convinced that there was no way it would be their day.

Well, I'm proud to announce that Yngo can now add an FH title to his name! The performance wasn't stunning in a technical way, but the heart that both Mike and Yngo showed surprised even me. Both came off the field drenched in sweat. Yngo was covered with pollen and his tongue was down to his feet. However, they each had the biggest smile that you'd ever see! Yngo managed to earn himself an ice cream cone. Mike, the eternal respect of his wife...

[Bucky's Mom]

Congratulations on all the accomplishments

[hcelsa]

Way to go Mike and Yngo! Sounds like those boys wanted to prove the point that they can do ANYTHING they put their minds too .

[Ilovemypuppy]

Times that dreams are made of :o)) Congratulations..in so many ways !!!!!

[JudyP]

Congratulations on a job well done to both Yngo and Mike!!!!!

[Helen B.]

Congratulations to them both for there will and determination to suceed.

[Luvs]

Ann,
I really enjoy reading about Mike and Yngo's many accomplishments!!! They are quite the team!!!

CONGRATS to the three of you!!! I can't wait to hear about their next adventure!!

[Patty1231]

Congratulations to you all!

[rottielover2004]

Congrats...I have had the pleasure to meet Mike and Anne. Yes Mike is very determined, and that is why him and Yngo make such a wonderful dream team. Keep up the amazing work. I hope to see you both at the Niagara seiger this Sept

[SonnyRott]

What a wonderful story and proof that great things can be accomplished through positive methods and determination.

CONGRATULATIONS!!

[MontanaRott]

What a great story and what an inspiration the Mike and Yngo team are!

[flyballmom]

Huge congrats to Mike and Yngo! They are quite an inspiration. It's obvious from the pictures of the 2 of them what a great team they are. Blitz sends a big smooch to her papa.

[spoteet]

That is a wonderful story and a bhuge congrats to them both

[GraceAAA]

Congratulations to all! What a wonderful time...and very special relationship you ALL share! Each lucky to have one another...congratulations again!

[rottnkidd]

Ann- Wonderful story and accomplishment for Mike and Yngo! I hope you were waiting field-side with a big bucket of water for both of them!
Congrats!
kathy