Mid Mass Newfers

07Jan2012 Draft Training

2012-01-08T20:46:00.000-05:00

Thank you everyone for such a great training day today! We had a ball! Who would have thought we would be wearing tee shirts in January! LOL ~ This was so much fun hosting carting day! Smokey and Tiny are so excited about the Carting Trials in April! Carbon, Duffy, Benny, Gus, Bob, Daisy, Tallula and all of other Newbies did so great today carting and Obedience! Smokey and Tiny are SOOOO PASSED OUT!
Beth, Keith, Smokey and the Tiny Man

Bruin Winner's Dog and Best of Winners!

2012-01-07T17:36:00.000-05:00

Our very own Bruin was the man at the Providence show! He took Winner's Dog and Best of Winners on Thursday, Reserve Winner on Friday, and Winners Dog on Saturday! I think you'll all agree he is one stunning boy! Congrats to Bruin, Kathy, and Mark!

Starting 2012 off Right! January 1 Training!

2012-01-02T14:40:00.002-05:00

First day of the New Year was perfect for a little draft training! Almost 50 degrees and no snow. Who'd believe it is January in New England? We had a good turn out and got in some great training.

The group is heading out for a freight haul in the photo below. All the dogs did a wonderful job.

This was the return trip. Eva and Duffy don't look like they are new to this, do they?

I think the pups are saying "cheese!"

Now they are a little tired. What a good looking group of brown, black, and landseer newfies!

We did a three minute down stay.

Mary Alice and Abby are navigating the removable obstacle.

We are hoping the weather holds out just a bit longer so that we don't have to pull those sleds out!

(Thanks to all the photographers: Molly, Mary Alice, and Beej. If others have more photos they want posted, send them along!)

End of 2011 Draft Training

2011-12-30T13:42:00.001-05:00

On the coldest day of the month a few brave souls got together at Andy Meszaro's house to get in a few hours of carting. In attendance for the first part of the day were Gracie seen here in her nice blue harness, Danny with Bob showing us all how it is done and one of the newest memebers to the group Ursa seen here with the wilczek training wheels that Bob let us borrow. I would like to give a special thanks to Danny for giving us Bobs old harness that did not fit. I hope everyone had a great time. It was a great start to the season.
- Norman

Out for a Walk

2011-12-23T07:52:00.000-05:00

Thank you, Sherri, for sending the photo! When the winter gets to be too much, we can look at this!

OH NO!

2011-10-28T14:03:00.005-04:00

Think that'll be it for water training this season! To think we were happily working in the water less than two weeks ago and then it SNOWED last night! And it appears to not be a one-off. Expecting up to 6 inches tomorrow. So very sad. May go from swimming, skip right over carting, and move on to the sled! The summer was great and it was terrific that we could keep at it well into October even in New England!

Can't believe we were swimming here two weeks ago!

Boat is getting tucked away until next spring!

Trying to Work Out our Bug-A-Boos

2011-10-16T19:28:00.001-04:00

Erin is trying to problem solve why Miss Brenna has suddenly become wary of the boat. She has previously loved to jump and now she won't sit on the boat long enough to leave the beach. Erin thinks that Brenna's change in attitude came when we went from asking her to retrieve a paddle to waiting on the boat deck to jump in and save Erin. She may just be wary of riding out knowing that Erin is going to jump in and need her help! So back to the basics. Look, Brenna! Your wonderful bumper is sitting on this platform! Do ya wanna come get it?

Brenna is cautious but is having trouble resisting the call of the bumper!

OK, fine! I'll climb up there for that! Yeah for Erin for figuring out how to go about that with a positive approach!

Birdie has been jumping great for her bumper. . . but the paddle is another matter!

She didn't go when I told her to but she's still with me!

Whoa! Look at that air as she leaps to the paddle sitting just off to the left of the frame!

And, yes, she did bring it back to me on the dock (with the help of that handy long line)!

Water training in October (in New England!!!)

2011-10-10T21:53:00.000-04:00

We've had a couple of great weekends water training. Who would've thought that we'd be in the water in October! We can't lie, it was cold! But in a couple of months, when it it is snowing out, we'll be longing for the days at the lake! Baby Bob is no longer a baby! Look at the big boy on the boat! Brenna has decided she is going to beach that boat (she didn't like having it disappear when she dropped it prematurely!). Birdie hasn't dropped the take a line in a while. And Sammy remembers all of his exercises and is still a fabulous worker. We thought we were going to be called on for a real rescue when the neighbor's boat wouldn't start while it was floating out there in the lake. But they got it working and no real life tow a boat was required!

Newfie Fun Day in Maine!

2011-09-29T19:59:00.000-04:00

I love this photo of newfie and bagpiper trying to figure out what they're looking at! That hat makes him look a little like a newf! Click on the title to the post for more photos! Thank you Anne!

Summer Ain't Over 'til the Newfie Says its Over!

2011-09-18T15:31:00.001-04:00

more photos!

2011-09-11T17:36:00.000-04:00

September 10 Water Training

With the hurricane gone and finally some nice weather, we were able to get out for some more water training this weekend. The site was beautiful and the dogs continue to work hard! Brenna's jump is simply amazing. She and Birdie worked on swimming in a civil fashion with each other (no crocodile rolls allowed!), Birdie is getting the hang of beaching that boat (finally!), Fiona was making great progress on her take a line, Abbey did some really enthusiastic retrieving, and Mr. Sammy made it to the water for the first time in a while and remembered all of his junior exercises and even took the life ring out. We're holding on to the last bits of summer for all we're worth!

Labor Day Mystic Seaport Demo

2011-09-07T13:10:00.000-04:00

NCNE had their annual water rescue demo at Mystic Seaport this past weekend. The demonstrations covered three days of the holiday weekend and were very well attended! Here are some of the photos courtesy of Suzanne. Thank you Suzanne! You have an artistic eye! And thanks to all the organizers and especially Lori for inviting us. And thanks to our wonderful narrator, Donna, who tells the newfie story with style!

Donna explaining our newfie addiction to the spectators

The children find out how tough it is to tow the boat

Suzanne and Ellie Mae going out for the paddle retrieve

Ahhhh! Litter mates Reese and Gus.

Reese taking a rest

Nemo is great at the under water retrieve

And he gets a smooch for his efforts

Donny showing off his carting skills (thank you Donny for helping us to the car with that load!)

Tally making an awesome jump (Lori is in the splash!)

Bumper races!

Who is this doing tow a boat??? Awesome job!

The best rescue under a capsized raft ever! (Cedihl)

Birdie rescuing Lori

That little girl just couldn't decide if she was brave enough to pet the puppy

Lovely view of the bay

2011 NCNE Water Tests

2011-08-21T22:21:00.002-04:00

(Suzanne, thank you so much for the awesome photos! Beth, I used some of the notes from your email. You summed it all up so well!)

The MMN Group was well represented at the NCNE Water Trials this year. Everyone of the teams did an awesome job and should be very proud of the great work they did. Some really great wins came out of the weekend for everyone of the teams!

Big congrats to Kiko for her WRDX (wow, you make it look so effortless), may we all just dream to look like that!

Suzanne, you and Ellie May did an awesome job BIG CONGRATS on your WD! Unbelievable control during the Obedience piece and great teamwork.

Sandy, it is always so nice to see you and Xena working together, she is always looking to see what she is to do next, what a sweet girl. Mark and I where so happy for the stewards when Xena jumped and the boat stayed afloat! LOL! Summer is still young and you will get WRD.

Erin with Nella in her very first water test ever! We were all envious of the energy level!

Ahhh! Is this the sweetest photo ever?

It always rains on WRDX day!

Meet Gus!

Mark and Bruin, first water test! You guys did great! Bruin and Smokey did EXCELLENT and behaved during the down stay even right next to each other. Bruin is such a beauty and you can just see that communication between the two of you! You got this next test!

This was so cool! We are so proud of you and Smokey, Beth! Horray for your WD!

Sue, Great job with Sterling; you did it, you got Sterling to WD and almost WRD... Bear Mountain? Of course you and Nemo are just a thrill to watch and everyone just loves seeing the love the two of you share! It is priceless!

Mary Alice.... I was so proud of you, you and Fiona have such a great love for each other and it shows. What were you nervous about... you guys looked fabulous.

Barb, EVERYONE was amazed with your handling of Ozzy during the Obedience piece. He started wagging his tail when he whiffed the girls and everyone held there breath, but you had it ALL DAY. Full control, what a great job you did. It really shows all the work you have put in this year! YEA! I have no doubt you will get that Title this year.

Kathy, you and Birdie with your very first water test, now your feet are wet! You make the obedience piece of the test look like a walk in the park (great control) and teamwork.

Another fabulous training day! (Awesome photos, Suzanne!)

2011-07-24T16:04:00.014-04:00

Nella wants that paddle bad!

And she brings it back to the boat!

Presto showing us how its done!

Elphaba has a new fan

Ceidlh's capsized raft rescue (she got her out safely!)

Our guest steward for the day with Presto and Elphaba (who showed the newfs a thing or two)

Birdie loves her jump!

Ellie also loves her jump!

Terry inspiring Ceidlh (or walking on water - we're not sure)

And it worked!

Birdie working out her issues with the tow-a-boat (pretty good!)

How cool is this? (Miss Ellie Mae)

Esther working on Ellie's paddle retrieve (and release of the paddle)

This little schipperke is showing the newfs how to tow the life ring!

And swim with handler!

The Joy of Jumping!

2011-07-23T20:37:00.001-04:00

(Thank you to Suzanne - master of the action shot!)

Oh, hey Mom, look over there!

Ceildh jumping in to save Mom (the choking was an effective draw, Terry!)

Auditioning for Peter Pan with Nana

Wonder Dog (or Miss Polly Purebred)

I'm thinking these two are after pirates! Charge!

Just shaking it out

Newfie version of dock diving

July 9 water training

2011-07-10T20:38:00.008-04:00

We had a marvelous time training! Nellie is really getting this X exercise stuff down! She saved the unconscious victim, rescued two behind-the-boat drowners, and jumped in for the triple rescue off the boat (she saved two out of the three!). Birdie did the most amazing jump off of the boat. Nella retrieved the paddle off the boat. Abby did a perfect swim with handler. Ozzie beached the boat in real style. And Ellie jumped and jumped and jumped off of the dock! Can't wait to do it again! Suzanne's wonderful photos are now posted! See below.

Another wonderful day on the lake

2011-07-03T20:28:00.001-04:00

Ozzy got a boat ride and also did great work towing the boat. Nella did a fabulous jump off the boat. Birdie put her shoulder into towing but still isn't quite reliably beaching the boat. Nellie is a superstar and is making great progress on all the X exercises. She took the unconcious victim by the hand (gently!), went under the capsized raft, and rescued two out of three victims on the triple rescue.

Ozzy thinking, someone might need my help out there

Ice cream anyone?

Nellie focusing on her three drowners

Got this one!

Nella is really starting to enjoy the boat ride thing!

And look at this lovely jump!

Birdie towing Beej in to shore (she loves her Beej!)

Who would have thought we could be so cold?

2011-06-11T19:03:00.001-04:00

There are no photos of today's water training. Close your eyes and picture this . . .
50 degrees, pouring rain, just a light breeze. Yes, we were freezing our collective rear ends off today. We kept wondering, are we just that dedicated or our we out of our minds? Perhaps both. Despite the chilly weather, we had a good turnout and the dogs did seem to enjoy the day and even the elements. Nella is doing a much better job waiting before she is sent out to a task while maintaining that terrific enthusiasm! Birdie beached the boat today. Yeah! She also was making progress on taking the line the first time we tried but totally rejected the idea later. Ah well. . . that's why they call it training. Nellie did an awesome job learning the triple rescue off the boat (thank you for taking me back to the boat!) and the rescue under the capsized raft. Bruin not only towed the boat but also smooched up the calling steward when he got back to wading depth. Lilly got some practice swimming out to multiple people. Tyler put on his life jacket so that he could build a little confidence and stop reaching for the bottom of the lake with his back feet. That seemed to work very well. I think he will sleep good tonight. Gabby did a great job retrieving. Xena was learning to retrieve her paddle and come back to the boat. Baby Tabitha got in a lot of swimming and even towed me to shore. At that point we were all shivering and ready to go home. My feet have not yet warmed up. This is June, right?

Water Training Season is Just Getting Better and Better!

2011-06-05T22:23:00.001-04:00

We had a great 3rd weekend of water training on Saturday. All of the newfs and their handlers made some amazing progress. Thanks to Kiko for joining us and helping with some wonderful training tips. Nella is learning to curb that awesome enthusiasm until it is time for the exercise to start. Gabby is doing a great job on the go-outs. Xena is learning to board and jump off the boat. Birdie loves the tow a boat and take a line but still needs some work on the hold so that she doesn't drop them prematurely. She is having a good time though so that is terrific. Fiona is still our master at beaching the boat. Lucky had her debut in the water and liked swimming around with Mom. Tyler is a smart boy and likes to feel for the bottom with his long legs. We did lots of swimming practice keeping his top line level. And we have a new newf in the group. Welcome Luna! Your first day was great! We can't wait for next week! Thanks to Sharon for all of the photos. Click on the link to the post for the rest of them. We will add more as we get them from all of the photographers.

Got a little lake surf going here!

Water Training Week 2!

2011-05-30T21:30:00.001-04:00

We had a terrific time at training this weekend. All of the newfs worked very hard and the trainers were very focused. We worked from about 11 to 3 and then some lightning storms cut the day short. Can't control that though! None-the-less, we got a lot accomplished! And the water was so much warmer this week!

Sharon giving Tyler a little information about the exercise

What a great take off for Birdie!

Look at Fiona's focus!

Bruin is not going to drop that cushion!

Andy is letting Lilly relax on a tour around the lake.

Yes, we had another team member fall out of the boat this year (she was ok though!)

Nellie is getting ready to go out to the capsized raft (and she did an awesome job!)

The first water training day of 2011!!!!!!!!!!!!!

2011-05-22T20:37:00.000-04:00

We can't lie. It was COLD out there in that water! Several of us were donning wet suits and it was still COLD out there! The dogs mostly loved it though. Birdie seemed not thrilled with the cold water, which was a surprise considering how enthusiastic she was last season. But with every new season brings new puzzles to solve! She did enjoy posing as Queen of the Nile as we rowed around the lake with her sitting on the platform of the boat. Nellie is showing great promise on the WRDX exercises. She brought in our Vicky the Unconscious Victim. She also did great grabbing Kathy's hand as she transitioned to a real person in that glove. Nella was awesome doing some warm up runs for the WD exercises. She managed all of them with huge enthusiasm. We'll be working on getting her to wait until she's told to go out to help! Gabby and Xena also were fabulous. The go outs are great. And, we are happy to welcome two new pups to the group (and their handlers, of course)! Bob, the 4 month puppy was so happy to be retrieving his bumper you just couldn't help but smile. And Tyler practically bounced through the water. Both show terrific promise as future water rescue dogs!

Xena taking a boat ride

Bob meeting a new buddy, Tabitha.

Tyler watching every move on the beach so that he knows how to do it when it is his turn.

Mark and Bruin have this communication thing down pat.

Baby Bob's first paddle retrieve!

Mass General is Looking for Study Participants

2011-05-13T19:51:00.000-04:00

Are You a MOTHER with Both a Child and a Dog?

You may be eligible for a research study being conducted at Massachusetts General Hospital to learn more about the relationship between people, their pets and their children.

We are seeking women between 22-45 years old who have at least one dog and a child to receive:

 A home visit (approx. 2 hours) where we will ask you to fill out questionnaires and photograph your dog and child.

 A 1 hour fMRI (functional magnetic resonance imaging) brain scan at our imaging center.

Participants will receive $25.00 for the home visit and $60.00 plus a parking voucher for the imaging session. For more information, please contact

Lori by phone @ 617-963-9315 or email lpalley@partners.org.

Lori Palley, D.V.M.
Massachusetts General Hospital
Charlestown, MA 02129
617-963-9315

Nellie Takes Winner's Bitch Two Days in a Row This Weekend!

2011-05-01T18:03:00.003-04:00

We hope to have some photos to publish later! Congrats to Nellie, Molly and Kiko!

Don't Hate Me Because I'm Beautiful!

2011-04-27T21:25:00.001-04:00

The weekend shows were good to MMN! Several of the MMN group were at Springfield and they made us proud! Nellie got reserve winner on Saturday, Ellie got winners bitch on Sunday and Miss Abbey got 3 new grand champion points! We are so proud of all of the dogs and handlers!

Abbey makes an impression on the judge

Kiko and Molly think she's awesome too!

I did so brush my teeth today!!!-
-Nellie

Tracking Clinic on 16 April

2011-04-16T20:32:00.001-04:00

Today we went to a tracking clinic. Kathy with Birdie, Suzanne with Ellie Mae, and Kiko with Louie. It was great fun. Birdie's first run was ok but you could tell that she really didn't understand what she was supposed to do. I tried dropping cheese along the track for the second run. That was no good. Then, suddenly, she seemed to realize that she was following a trail and every run she did after that was beautiful. Miss Ellie Mae was also terrific. She took to the first track like a pro. I'm sure Louie was too but he was too far away for me to watch. Birdie being in season and all, we were banished to the far, up-wind section of the event but we got to partner with Suzanne and Ellie so it was wonderful.

Louie following the track

Birdie was doing great quartering the track

Ellie Mae knew exactly what she was doing

Nose to the ground!

Found it!

Longer track this time and still got it!

Draft Training in Wrentham April 3

2011-04-04T21:15:00.001-04:00

The group had a fabulous, spring day draft training. Not a speck of the white stuff in these photos if you'll notice. We are so happy for that! See below for some of the highlights.

I think Ellie Mae is getting a talking to. OK, really she's being told to back up. In draft work they have to be able to back up 4 feet in a fairly straight line. It takes some practice!

Look at this awesome attention while heeling!

Harness and Hitch - Bruin

Liddy with her two buddies

Ellie Mae is moving in on Nella's fella!

Xena and Gabby (I think). You've heard that Newfs are like potato chips. . . you can't have just one.

Group sit/stay

"I think I see Spring!"

March 26 Draft Training

2011-03-30T19:42:00.000-04:00

We had a great time with our newfies and carts. Everyone did great and we ended up with happy, tired puppies at the end of the day. See below for some pics courtesy of Suzanne!

Group 3 minute down Harness and Hitched

Nellie and Nimbus Pulling like Pros

Mr. Chauncey enjoying the scenery on his walk

Birdie considering whether her cart can float

Nellie demonstrating how a harness and cart should fit

Benny was awesome hooked up to his cart! (Paul is a good teacher!)

Andy teaching Abbey to high five

Harbour Grace and Birdie getting acquainted with a bit of wrestle mania

March 12 Water Training on LAND! (not shown in photos - our own photographer, Suzanne!)

2011-03-20T19:14:00.001-04:00

We had a great turnout for training. Lots of dogs and handlers got a jump start on the water training season! The land work will help us transfer the necessary skills when we get to the water. See below for a few of the highlights!

Hoola Hoop Target Practice with a bumper. - exactly 30 feet!

Great delivery to hand!

Rescuing Vicky the unconscious victim!

Group down/stay

Ahhhh!

Enthusiasm for the take-a-line!

Beaching the "boat"

Focusing on marking the go-out

Newfoundland Rescue

2011-03-14T07:11:00.000-04:00

Support Newfoundland rescue!
Click on the title to the post to visit the new website for That Newfoundland Place, a new not-for-profit Newfoundland rescue organization. The website is currently under construction, so please bookmark it and check back for updates.

Abby takes Best of Opposite at 2011 Westminster

2011-02-21T14:34:00.001-05:00

Abby Best of Opposite!

And Trident Waiting before his Award of Merit!

Packed Arena

The Newfy line up

Abby taking a short break

Abby won!

It just doesn't get better than this!

Oh, wait . . . maybe it does! Cheers!

Welcome to MMN, Tabitha!

2011-01-29T07:27:00.000-05:00

Newfs in Snow! (we'll add more photos as we get them!)

2011-01-27T20:08:00.004-05:00

Snow ball fight, anyone??? (Ellie and Birdie)

Ellie Mae!

Xena and Gabby!

Gabby!

Nella!

Benny!

Birdie!

Hooray for Miss Ellie Mae and Suzanne!

2011-01-27T07:19:00.000-05:00

On Sunday, January 23 Ellie and Suzanne became the first ever Newf/handler team in the US to successfully complete the NoseWorks trial! Way to go!!!

Choose your team!

2011-01-23T21:46:00.002-05:00

Are you a Steeler's Fan like Sammy and Birdie???

Or are you a Packer's Fan like Abbey and Fiona???

Nellie wins her first point!!!

2011-01-17T20:32:00.000-05:00

Horray for Nellie, Molly, and Kiko!
Nellie earned her first point today at the Fitchburg shows!
We are so proud of all of our pups who showed this weekend. Each and every one represented their breed and their adoring MMN fans wonderfully! And we thank the impressive handlers, Kiko and Monica, who make it look so easy!

Fitchburg Shows January 15/16, 2011

2011-01-15T18:36:00.033-05:00

Thought this was funny. We're not even looking in the same direction!

Click on title of post for the rest of the photos. Thanks, Suzanne!

Nellie on the left and Ellie on the right

Ellie and Kiko share a secret

Nellie takes first in her class!

Ozzy loves his Monica! Smooch!

January 7, 2011 Draft Training

2011-01-12T17:47:00.001-05:00

MMN had our 2nd draft training of 2011. Since we had some new snow, we made use of that practicing pulling sleds in the yard. Bruin who is quite skilled at the cart tried the sled for the first time and he was terrific. We also took a short freight haul around the neighborhood with the carts and practiced some basic control skills too. The group down/stay, the controlled walking and the recalls all went great. We also had time for a bit of puppy romping in the snow while we had our customary pot luck dinner inside. Birdie thanks Nella, Nellie, and Ceilidh for the playtime!

A Rare Sighting of the MMN Photographer! SMILE!

2011-01-07T19:31:00.000-05:00

Add caption

January 1 start to draft training in 2011

2011-01-01T20:57:00.005-05:00

MMN had a great start to 2011 today at Hopkinton State Park. We had a great turn out and the weather was positively spring like. The newfs had a lot of passers by stopping to ask questions about what these large dogs were doing.

Below, Bruin is practicing his hauling skills.

Flower is getting used to having the cart following her before getting hitched up the first time.

Nellie is stopping for a scenic photo op.

Xena and Gabby are enjoying their perch on the large rocks.

Birdie is weaving the cones working on left/right commands.

And this is the photo right before Ellie decided it would be great fun to leap into the frozen lake. (Don't worry, she's fine. . .)

MMN Best 2010 Moments and 2011 Training Resolutions!

2010-12-31T19:02:00.018-05:00

1. Best 2010 moment - Molly and Everett going over in the row boat in 1 foot of water

and Nella getting on the boat platform and going for a ride.

Training resolution - be consistent in giving commands.

2. Best 2010 moment - Molly holding on to Nellie for dear life when she tried to run away from jumping off the dock. Kiko came to her rescue, you still held on lying on your side. Not a very pretty picture but one of my favorite. Still cracking up over it. Sorry Molly!

I was good didn't say a word.Mary Alice falling out of the raft and still smiling. Ozzie at the water test having a good time. Best moment last year...Sammy saving me first, I hate the water. Jumping off the boat at the water training fun day, I looked back at the man and asked if he was kidding. What I do for my dogs.

My Wish for this year, to have more fun with my dogs, if that is possible.

THANK YOU MIDMASSNEWFERS FOR ALL YOUR HELP, it's been a wonderful year, and for all the GREAT pictures that you let me take. I will cherish them for life.

3. My Best 2010 moment - Birdie jumping off the boat ramp and then off the boat platform!

My 2011 training resolution - work Sammy through his boat issues to get him to a WRD!

4. Memorable moment - I'm with Erin - has to be Molly and Everett falling out of the boat!!!! For me, a highlight was seeing Ozzy finally pull the boat all the way to shore!

As for 2011 goals, first to keep both boys active, happy and healthy. Second is to always have FUN training and maybe in the process progress with Ozzy towards his CD and WD. Of course, finishing up his CH would be awseome.

5. Wow so many great memories this year it would be hard to pick one. It sure wouldn't be of Everett & I falling out of the boat OR Nellie pulling me over backwards on the dock as she ran in the opposite direction. LOL

Where to begin...

Water Training in general
We had 5 new puppies join the group, Birdie, Benny, Nella, Lucky, and Karma
Seeing Ozzy get his first points, 3 point major if I remember correctly
Seeing Monica & Jo at Westminster
The Nationals and our 4 dog team (Kiko & Louie, Mary Alice & Fiona, Kathy & Sammy, Molly & Jersey)
This should be on the TOP of my list. Pam & Steve's news about the baby!!!!
Watching the dogs improve weekly at water training
Ellie and her impressive jump off the boat. I could watch her do that everyday
The NCNE water test and watching the WRDX dogs, very very impressive, and so close to new titles
Zina getting her WD
Abbey getting her Champion
Maya getting her Champion and VN
Missy getting her Champion
Seeing Emma (Terry's partner's daughter) get her DD. She is only 17 yrs old, very impressive!!
Having new members join MMN
Having all of you as my friends, this should be second on the list
We didn't lose any dogs this year

My personal best would be

Nellie's WRD

The funniest

When Pam and Steve told us about the new member of their family and we thought they were getting a new puppy and how excited we were.
Mary Alice demonstrating the proper way to exit the raft (falling off)

My goals next year

Continue training & having fun with the MMN

Life is Good In the Snow!

2010-12-29T17:50:00.004-05:00

Birdie and Ellie having a romp in the snow today.

Yes, there are two dogs in this photo.

Ellie (aka Sasquatch)

Birdie (aka Yettie)
Thanks for the photos, Suzanne!

Happy Holidays from Sandy, Tony, Gabby and Xena!

2010-12-26T21:23:00.004-05:00

Merry Christmas from MMN!

2010-12-18T21:05:00.003-05:00

Rhode Island Show

2010-12-11T07:22:00.003-05:00

Nellie made her ring debut on December 9. She looked great and Molly handled her beautifully.

On Friday Abbey got Best of Opposite in BOB and on Saturday she took Best of Breed!

Awaiting more results from the rest of the weekend! Good luck guys!

First Weekend of December - Results!

2010-12-04T13:18:00.008-05:00

Abby

Scarlet

Ozzy

Missy

Ellie

Sunday update:

Another terrific day! MMN once again did a great job at the Fitchburg show. Abby took Best of Opposite for the second day in a row. Ellie took Winner's Bitch (her first points!) and Ozzie took Winner's Dog and Best of Winners. Missy also got another Grand Champion point today. How cool is that??? I hear photos are coming. . .

Saturday:

Fabulous news! MMN showed very well so far this weekend. Abbey took Best of Opposite in Best of Breed, Ozzy took Best of Winners, and Missy got her first Grand Champion points!

Hopefully we'll have some photos to share later so check back!

Also, there was an AKC sanctioned match last night. Birdie made her debut and took first place, best of breed, and 3rd in group (yes, we're cheating a little. . . she was the only newf in the match and there were only 3 dogs in group)!

It was a great, no-pressure way to start her show days!

MidMassNewfers at the 2010 Putnam Parade!

2010-11-29T07:24:00.005-05:00

MMN had another fabulous cart display at the Putnam Parade last night! Several from the group braved the cold and the end-of-Thanksgiving weekend traffic to join the festivities. We are very proud that two of the teams had never done any draft work before this year but they are hooked now! Great job everyone!

Big E Update!

2010-11-28T12:24:00.002-05:00

Wins for Abby on both Saturday and Sunday! She took Best of Opposite both days. That girl is a head turner!

Nov 26 Big E - Good day for MMN!

2010-11-27T08:21:00.009-05:00

What words can be said, just Awesome, Awesome, Awesome! Our MidmassNewfers did us proud again. Another Major for Abby and Mary Alice. Totally awesome. Abby had such great movement in the ring earning Best of Opposite and Grand Champion points. Trident took best of breed. He looked terrific. Monica showed puppy, Lucky (her first blue ribbon!), and Missy. Mary with Scarlet, and Suzanne with Ellie also did a great job today. It was nice to be on the outside to cheer our friends on. Awesome job by everyone. Good luck the rest of the weekend!

-Ev

Below, Missy on left and Abby on right.

Scarlet

Ellie (on right being prepped to show her stuff)

Lucky the puppy

Good Luck to All MMN entries at the Big E this weekend!

2010-11-25T08:15:00.000-05:00

Check back for postings on results!

Draft Training at Amosville Nov 21

2010-11-24T14:11:00.006-05:00

We had a great time at Amosville on Sunday. It is hard to believe that most of these dogs had not ever pulled a cart until a few months ago. They are getting to be pros! Thank you Beth and Keith for the photos!

Below, Sandy with Xena and Gabby

Smokey humoring Tiny Man with the view from on top of the cart

Smokey catching a little shut eye

Bruin keeping a close eye on the group

Ozzy takes Winners Dog!

2010-11-14T06:24:00.002-05:00

Monica showed Ozzy at the Fitchburg show on Saturday. He looked awesome, practically gliding around the ring.

November 6 Draft Training

2010-11-06T18:17:00.007-04:00

Kathy and Birdie getting ready for the figure 8.

Andy taking Amos for a walk through the manuevering course on a broad right turn.

The bear is a more wicked distraction than you might think!

Molly and Nellie ready to go through the low narrows.

The signature MMN banner!

It was a fun day of training! Two of our crew are heading out for the draft test next week so we set up a challenging course with lots of low and high narrows, lots of turns, a back out of the chute, a figure 8 and a few wicked distractions! And, of course, we ate a lot after we were done in true MMN style! Good luck to the teams next week!

A Fabulous Fall Day with the Newfs!

2010-10-19T23:18:00.004-04:00

It just doesn't get any better than this!

Below, the group heading into the woods on a freight haul.

Birdie with a scenic back drop!

Nella hitched and harnessed for the very first time and doing great!

Kathy and Bruin sporting a very festive wagon!

Molly and Nelly at the end of a very successful day training!

King Louie has earned a rest!

2010-10-18T17:43:00.005-04:00

Louie earned his Rally Excellent title on Oct. 16th at Southegan Kennel Club rally trial which completes the requirements for NCA Working Achievement Award! Yeah Louie and Kiko!

How Proud Are We????

2010-10-12T20:18:00.002-04:00

Miss Ellie Mae (Kloofbear's Perfect Storm) won the obedience match at the NCNE Fall Fun Day!

The View From the Eyes of a 3-Week Old Puppy

2010-10-10T20:32:00.002-04:00

October 9, 2010 Draft Training

2010-10-09T22:39:00.002-04:00

Another Fabulous Day of Training!

Goodbye water training, Hello draft training!

2010-10-03T07:19:00.007-04:00

A Simply Fabulous Start to the Draft Training Season!

We had a great turn out. The weather was perfect. The company was terrific and the Newfs were, as usual, amazing! We had several new-to-the-newf-sport dogs introduced to draft yesterday. They went through each of the warm up phases with happy enthusiasm so everyone worked up to a little cart pulling. We discussed the proper fit of the harness and cart, worked on basic control, and even took a few of the more experienced dogs on a short freight haul. Click on the title of the post to get to the full photo album for the day. (Suzanne, thanks for the photos!)

Scott taking Lilly on a tour around the park.

Mark and Bruin relaxing after a very successful first-time-pulling-the-cart.

Benny and Liddy having a conversation.

Molly lending some assistance to Mary and Sylvia on the proper length of the traces.
Nimbus and Nellie. Kissing cousins.

Another Water Title!

2010-09-11T20:19:00.003-04:00

Way to go team!
Sandy and Xena earned their WD today at the Bear Mountain Water Test! (Thank you Beth for the photos!)

OK, this isn't a photo from today. It is from last week. But it was too precious not to post! Look at that mutual admiration!

Last weekend of August! (Thank you for the photos Kevin!)

2010-08-29T19:32:00.006-04:00

What a fabulous training day! First of all, we had our cute little mascot, Lucky:

Then, we has two pros overturn the boat and come up smiling:

And Miss Nella discovered that boat rides are FUN!

Good Luck to all of the MMNers in the water test next weekend!

August 21 Water Training

2010-08-25T19:49:00.007-04:00

Fiona

Ozzy

Nellie

Nella

Scarlet

Birdie

Mary giving our guest steward some inside info

Xena

Holy Cow! What a day! We had some GREAT training today. Every single dog was amazing. Fiona was back and very impressive after being out of training for a couple of months. She seemed so glad to be back.

Xena worked through her one little hiccup of going all the way out on the take a line and worked up some real enthusiasm. The Oz man is so excited going out to that drowner we had to work through it a few times to help him remember. . . don't forget the rope! He got it though! Miss All Star Nellie has begun to work on the WRDX exercises and had great fun racing around the boat to find the caller. Nella is simply wonderful. We cannot believe that she has learned so much in such a short time. 6 1/2 months and doing all that! Scarlet has enthusiasm pouring out her ears. I've never seen a dog do go outs faster. And Birdie did her first amazing leap off of the boat today. A good time was had by all! (and a special thanks to our guest Steward!)

and the REST of the water test photos! (Thank you Suzanne!)

2010-08-18T20:02:00.006-04:00

Click on the title of the post to see a BUNCH more!

More Water Test Photos! (thank you Kevin!)

2010-08-18T07:18:00.003-04:00

Oodles more photos and a very cute photo of Birdie with our newest MMN pup, Nella! They must have called each other to coordinate outfits for the day! More photos to come, so check back at the site later!

New MMN WRD Title! Way to go Mollie and Nellie!

2010-08-14T20:14:00.004-04:00

Molly and Nellie earned their WRD today at the NCNE water test and boy, were they impressive! Although all of us MMNers watching just KNEW they were going to do it, we couldn't help but hold our breath! Molly cleverly took Nellie down the beach to direct her to the correct first article on the double retrieve. Nellie swam so fast that she created a wake! She eagerly jumped off the boat to retrieve her paddle and came right back to the boat with it. She didn't hesitate a second carrying the life ring out to that very convincing steward pretending to drown. She took her line and bumper out to the stranded boat and pulled them safely up onto the beach. And despite the fact that the splunky she had to retrieve was not her splunky (thank you Barbara for loaning yours to replace the lost one!) she shoved her head under the water to get it like it was her best friend in the world. And her final dramatic act was to jump off the boat to save Molly and pull her safely to shore. WE ARE SO PROUD!

Barbara with Ozzy (hey, Ev, I spelled it right!) and Sandy with Xena did well and we are keeping our fingers crossed for new titles tomorrow!

August 7 New Training Site!

2010-08-08T18:09:00.004-04:00

Below, we had a large group at the new training site in preparation for the NCNE tests next weekend!

And a new 10-week old puppy, Lucky! Donny is smitten!
Fun to see the advanced dogs work. Here Roxy and Lori are getting ready for the Multiple Victim Rescue (and they did well! Everyone was saved!).

More photos from this weekend!

2010-08-04T20:43:00.004-04:00

Nella learning to swim with handler!
Look at Scarlet go!
Ozzie is really motoring pulling us in!

July 31st Water Training

2010-08-04T18:23:00.004-04:00

A Fabulous Time Was Had By All!

Click on the title to the post to get to the rest of Suzanne's photos.

Water Training

2010-07-11T19:10:00.005-04:00

Click on the title to the post for more of Suzanne's fabulous photos. And see post below for our jumping lesson!

Drover (in the middle with the gigantic head) is wondering how he got mixed up with these two maniacs!
Ellie Mae after an exhausting romp with Birdie. This girl knows how to unwind!

Such Fun Learning to JUMP!

2010-07-11T18:57:00.007-04:00

Suzanne Showed Us How to Do This!

What a Great Day!

July 3rd Water Training

2010-07-05T17:17:00.006-04:00

Above, young Birdie is ENTHUSIASTIC about swimming out to the caller!

How is this for ATTENTION? Ozzie is being such a good boy ready to go out again!

Check out the rest of our photos by clicking on the title to this post. And come back later. . . there will be more.

Benny!

2010-04-08T06:19:00.003-04:00

Introducing the Newest 4 legged member of the MMN gang!! Bogmist's Sir Benjamin of Amosville. Better known as "Benny" or sometimes "Benny NO"!! He has given a new name to "Action at Amosville". Every morning he looks bigger than when we put him to bed!!! The fun has begun!!!!!!

Midmassnewfers would like to congratulate our newest champion!

2010-04-06T13:00:00.005-04:00

Ch. Haytee's Abigail's Journey

On A Perfect Day,RN,TDI,CGC

After a nice time at the lake

2010-04-04T18:23:00.005-04:00

I've posted a few more photos. Click on the title to the post and see the new ones at the end of the album.

Happy Easter!

2010-03-31T20:43:00.000-04:00

The First Weekend of Spring!

2010-03-24T07:46:00.004-04:00

A great start to spring for MMN! This past weekend:

Jo with Chance got an Award of Merit at the Working Dog Show in Springfield!

Molly with Jersey got leg 2 in Rally Advanced!

Molly with Nellie got leg 2 in Rally Novice!

Suzanne with Ellie took 3rd in her class at the Working Dog Show in Springfield!

Kathy with Sammy got leg 1 in Rally Advanced!

And we welcome the newest pup, Bennie, to MMN!

2010-03-14T23:21:00.001-04:00

Champion Haytee's Abigail's Journey On A Perfect Day, 3/14/2010

I am still in shock.

A giant thank you to JO and Chance for all you support,hugs and encouragement. Having you there to share this event with, made it so special.Thank you from the bottom of my heart.

and Thank you all for your good wishes

M, Fiona, A VERY PROUD big sis,Abbey

Jersey and Nellie Qualify in RallyO!

2010-03-10T21:30:00.002-05:00

Congrats to Molly and her girls! They competed in Rally Obedience on Sunday and both dogs qualified - Jersey in Rally Advanced B with an 88 and Miss Nellie (our own movie star) with an impressive score of 92 in Rally Novice B! It was their very first time in the ring for these events and they did great!

2010-03-07T15:10:00.000-05:00

Happy St. Patty's Day!

Team Obedience Training for the National

2010-03-06T22:51:00.005-05:00

So. . . think about synchronized swimming. . . except on land. . . and with dogs! That's sort of what Team Obedience looks like. A few of us got together today to train a bit for our entry coming up at the National. The exercises include simultaneously working four dogs through the heel on leash, figure eight, stand for exam, heel free, and drop on recall. Thank you, Suzanne, for the wonderful photos!

Two New Newfie TDIs!

2010-03-02T19:49:00.003-05:00

Congratulations to Sandy, Xena, and Gabby on two new therapy dog certifications this weekend! Way to go, girls!

Happy Birthday Hurley!

2010-02-23T06:10:00.001-05:00

Ozzy wins a 3 point Major!

2010-02-22T06:47:00.008-05:00

(click on the title to the post for some video footage of Ozzy in the Ring)

A huge thank you to Molly for travelling back and forth to Hartford with Ozzy and I providing much needed moral support and help. Also, big thanks to Sylvia and Mary who took photos, cheered Ozzy on and provided wonderful treats for Ozzy, Missy and Maya. Thanks to Kiko for her encouragement and to Monica who was fabulous in the ring making Ozzy look awesome.

-Ozzy and Barb

It was an honor to be at the end of the lead of such a handsome and well-behaved boy!! Barbara, Everett and Molly, thank you for all the training and hard work you put into preparing him for the ring and thank you for the opportunity to handle him.
He beat out some beautiful males in the ring today and was the youngest by at least a year. If you can keep him awake long enough, I'm sure he'll be enjoying a celebratory dinner tonight :)

-Monica

New Puppy in MidMassNewfers!

2010-02-19T19:07:00.003-05:00

I would like to introduce the newest canine member to MidMassNewfers! She is 14 weeks old, weighs 46 lbs, and LOVES to makes snow angels! We're still working on the name! Cick on the title to the post for more photos!

MMN at Westminster!

2010-02-17T21:52:00.004-05:00

A big congratulations to Jo and Monica for doing an outstanding job with Troy and Chance yesterday!! This was my first time at Westminster and it was quite the experience!! We were up and out of the house by 3:30a and caught the train out of New Haven..Of course the weather was not ideal but made it to the train safe and sound..Once arriving in the "Big Apple", we had an uneventful cab ride to Madison Square Garden(How much can go wrong at 7am??) We endured massive crowds,over- priced food and water(a bottle of water cost $4.50!), the heat was stifling at times..And the CROWDS!! But it is Westminster and it was all time well spent to be able to support Jo and Monica, and to represent the breed as Good Will Ambassadors. .The questions we received were "interesting" to say the least...Most people asked " Are those really dogs?" "Do they drool?" " "Wow, how much do they weight?" And of course many people just liked to share stories of their own dogs..We left Madison Square gardens at 3pm, and due to the uncooperative weather, finally rolled in the door about 8pm, just in time to catch the show on T.V. I feel honored and blessed to have found friends(both canine and human) in the Mid-Mass group, and Mary, Scarlet and I look forward to spending more time learning, playing and just having a great time!

-Sylvia

Happy Birthday to the Kloofbear Pups and Happy Valentines Day

2010-02-09T19:38:00.002-05:00

Hard to believe the pups are 1 year old already! And Happy Valentines Day!

Rally/Obedience today at Master Peace Dog Training

2010-02-06T21:29:00.005-05:00

We had a great turn out at Master Peace Dog Training for Rally and Obedience training today. We all tried our hand at a tough rally course and then did some novice and open level obedience run throughs too. Welcome to Bear's new family. Here's a photo of several of the Kloofbear dogs from our group (sorry we didn't catch Mr. Ozzy before he had to go). From left to right, Ellie, Mischief, Drover, Nellie, Scarlet, and Nimbus. What a handsome bunch!

Sammy doing a Rally Run Through

2010-02-05T07:37:00.002-05:00

A Busy Finish to January for MMN

2010-02-01T22:07:00.006-05:00

MidMass had a very busy finish to January! Some were showing in breed in NY, some got together for draft practice on Saturday, and a couple of us went to a Rally Training event on Sunday!

Scarlet brought home a lovely pink ribbbon for winning her class at the puppy sweeps and a check for an amazing amount of $7.20(They are wondering if they can start a retirement fund?). Scarlet also brought home a blue ribbon for winning the 9-12 month puppy bitch class.

And well done to Mary who did a wonderful job showing Scarlet. She overcame her nerves and performed wonderfully.

Chance did an exceptional job and got his first Award Of Merit. Chance showed even better on Sunday and while we went home without a prize that day, Jo was very proud of him and he got his photo taken for the local paper!

It was great to practice Draft and Rally too! Some of the photos are posted. Will put up more when they are available!

Mini Me!

2010-01-24T20:55:00.004-05:00

We had an awesome time training at Master Peace. And we even found a miniature look alike for Spirit! How cute is that? We worked on obedience exercises, ran a rally course, and even tried our hand at Team Obedience in preparation for the National! See the photos by clicking on the title to this post.

2 Great Days for MMN at the Fitchburg Shows January 2010!

2010-01-17T21:34:00.007-05:00

Big congratulations to Kiko and Maya for a 2 point win over very tough competition! ! And also congratulations for having the loudest applause and celebration after your win from the MMN supporters!! :)

Barbara's Ozzy went in the ring for the very first time today at just 19 months old and the judge commented to me that he acted like an old pro! He performed beautifully and impressed us all with how quickly he picked up showing. It's a testament to his excellent obedience training and trainers - Barbara and Molly.

Big kudos to Suzanne, who went in the ring for the very first time today and did fabulously with Ellie. No one could tell that Ellie was really a wild child in hiding ;)

It's hard to believe that it was only Mary's fifth time in the ring today - she and the no-longer-curly- coated Scarlet made a beautiful team and it's clear to see Scarlet LOVES the show!

I just wanted to say thank you from the bottom of my heart for all the love, cheering, encouragement and fun from all of those in attendance today (and all those rooting us on from home!) Win or lose, it was a wonderful morning spent with fabulous people and the world's best dogs. Today I felt like we all left with BIS ribbons because of the MMN gang :) (don't tell Mischief she didn't win Best In Show - she's currently lying on the couch ruminating her role as queen of the universe and fully convinced you all were there only for her!) Overall, all the newfs made us proud and all of you made me proud to be part of Mid-Mass...thank you again for being there for us and making it a wonderful day!!

- Monica

p.s. Kiko and Maya won two more points on Sunday!

I feel pretty. . . . oh, so pretty!

2010-01-15T20:45:00.002-05:00

What is Amos Laughing at?

2010-01-10T17:32:00.004-05:00

Our first training day of 2010! It was great to have so many of us together for training today. What were there? 20 or so Newfies? A little rally, a little obedience, some group exercises, and we got the new guys fitted for harnesses! And in true MMN style, we ate a lot of food! MaryAlice - thanks for arranging for the space at Waggin Tails. Additional photos can be located by clicking on the title to the post.

2009-12-31T17:45:00.002-05:00

Happy New Year!

midmassnewfers 1st annual Christmas Party

2009-12-20T18:27:00.006-05:00

Thank you Suzanne and Donny for hosting our very first Christmas party! A wonderful time was had by all. The Yankee Swap was really fun! How many people can say they got a painted pooper scooper for Christmas! Functional AND artistic! The food and friends will be remembered for a long time! Click the title of the post for the rest of the photos!

Ex-Newfer Keeps up Fine Tradition

2009-12-20T17:57:00.005-05:00

Merry Christmas Newfers!

It's our first Christmas apart from the MMN'ers and I confess we miss you all. But, in the spirit of Christmas tree pulls (or hauls), we did get out today for a walk with the cart, cut a small cedar from the edge of our pasture, and brought it back home. Sophie's doing the hauling, Hannah and Livvy are sauntering with a wistful look at the lake.

Andy, I took off the side rails of the cart you made for us, and it worked great!. We hope you all have a great holiday season and a happy new year. Not too early to begin to think about Resolutions, is it?

Bob, Cheryl, Livvy, Hannah, and Sophie Rose.

Draft Test - Northland Newfoundland Club 2009

2009-12-13T21:00:00.004-05:00

I've posted photos of the October Draft test - courtesy of the Northland Newfoundland Club. Just click on the title to this post. There are lots of them, so I recommend viewing them in slide show mode. Despite the fact that I look panicked in more than a few photos, Sammy did get his draft title in the end!

Well Done at the Providence Show!

2009-12-09T08:23:00.014-05:00

Abby, Ellie, Maya and Drover were shown in conformation at the Providence show during Dec. 3-6. They did well! On Thursday Maya was Winners Bitch (1 point) and Best of Opposite and Abby was Reserve Winners Bitch. On Friday Abby went to Winners Bitch (1 point) and Best of Opposite and Maya was Reserve Winners Bitch. On Saturday Abby again went to Winners Bitch, but this time it was for a 3 point major !!! Ellie took 1st in her class of 9-12 months Puppy Bitches and Drover was 2nd in 9-12 months Puppy Dogs. Ellie showed well her first time in the show ring. On Sunday none of our dogs placed although, overall, our dogs did very well and we had a blast cheering each other on. We are proud of our dogs and I'm sure we'll have more Champions from our group in 2010 !

-Kiko

Tree Pull at Smolak Farms!

2009-12-07T18:33:00.008-05:00

MMN participated in the Second Annual Christmas Tree Pull on Saturday, December 5. The dogs and handlers worked hard (and played hard!) and helped raise money for two great causes - Lazarus House and Newfie Rescue! View the photos by clicking on the title to this post (especially the cute one with the stow away!)

MidMass Newfers at the Putnam Parade!

2009-12-01T20:26:00.004-05:00

The small town of Putnam, CT was overrun with Newfies on Sunday, November 29 for their annual parade. The unofficial count was 23 in all! We had blacks, browns, landseers (white and black) and one gray! There was even a young black and white cow masquerading as a landseer! Our dogs pulled carts decorated and lighted for the occasion. Our artistic skills were displayed in winter scenes of snowmen, reindeer, penguins, Charlie Brown, candy canes, and one fantastic sleigh! All of it was topped off with lots and lots of lights and bells! The spectators were wonderful as usual and the dogs got cheers and some petting along the way. I'll bet every one of them slept great that night. You can view photos of the event by clicking on the title of this post.

New Titles for Newfs!

2009-11-06T22:49:00.003-05:00

Horray for our new titles at the Bull Mastiff obedience and rally trials October 31 and November 1!

Molly and Nellie, new CD!

Mary Alice and Fiona, new CD!

Barbara and Ozzie, new RN!

Kathy and Sammy, new RN!

Nice job MidMass Newfers!