Footlong Racing

Posted at June 17, 2009 // Farm Life

Ammo waking up the morning of the races

On Sunday I took my Dachshund, Ammo, to the Keystone Dachshund Races. I had pre-entered him months ago and was very excited to attend. The event was held to raise money for the Keystone Dachshund Rescue – I’m always up for supporting a good cause…especially if it involves animals. I had been practicing with Ammo for this event – mainly working on his “Come” – which being a puppy of 8 months old was somewhat difficult. I knew he would be plenty fast enough (he can keep up with my australian shepherd/lab mix no problem) it was more a question of would he listen to me.

Ammo gets ready for the start of the race

Well my suspicions were right – Ammo was more interested in touching all of the other puppies than to running to me. He even sat down in the middle of a race to give himself a good scratch. He didn’t even want his treats (a huge first for him!) and despite my best efforts he didn’t win a single race even though he was the largest and oldest puppy in the divisions. But despite my puppies’ failure I was still very proud of him, aside from not listening when I called he was very well behaved. I felt like a proud mom attending their child’s first sporting event (so this is what it feels like!). My husband and I (along with many of our family members) had a great time – hopefully we will be able to attend next year. I thought it was wonderful to see all the different colors and sizes that dachshunds come in. We saw a whole array of Dachshunds – even some in baby front packs and strollers. Ammo’s buddy, Trooper (my parent’s dog and Ammo’s best friend), tagged along for support. People commented on what a strange Dachshund he was (weighing in at 55 lbs and legs 10x’s longer than the average Dachshund) – I had to laugh.

See all of the photos from the event here.

Ammo stoping inches from the finish line for a good scratch

The day after the races I had to take my poor little guy to have a baby tooth pulled that wouldn’t fall out. When I picked him up he looked at me with the saddest eyes and ran straight for the car. I felt horrible – he spent the rest of the day moping around – I’m sure he will forgive me in the future….but I couldn’t help but feel like a terrible mom. He got extra kisses that night…and I even snuck him into bed with me…he just needed his mama. 🙂

-KD
www.ponypaintings.com