May

May brought us back to the Dungeness River several times. We made two separate trips along the Camp Handy trail, finally making it all the way on the second attempt. Though a hike that stays low and in the forest, I found it much more pleasant than most. The trail was relatively flat, the vegetation and trees were widely spread out and the trail basically followed the Dungeness. So Kiwi had plenty of opportunities for water, both to drink and explore. I believe here is where she developed her affinity to seek out that "water sound" and investigate. Of course her being raised up in the Northwest means she is spoiled with the many big streams and rivers that abound.
Also made a short trip to Merhut Falls. This was recommended by Penny of the Hoodsport station. Although a short hike, about a mile, the falls are great. The water drops about 115 feet and provides a refreshingly cool mist in the general area. Not a lot of room but enough for a few furry friends to enjoy dog treat or snack with the other end of the leash. :-)
Though the pictures are rather similar and hide the differences, another hike was made on the Lower Quilcene. Made it to Camp Jolly. I give it 2 of 5 stars as hikes go. But several portions of the trail were open enough to do some jogging and that enabled Kiwi to stretch her legs and laugh as I tried to keep up. She just couldn't understand why "her" human was not as fast while luggin his backpack. :-)
A couple of the photos show the Ruff-Wear backpack she wears. This is no endorsement, just my opinion. I like the backpack for several reasons. The saddle bags attach and detach quickly and easily. The supporting harness is similar to a 5-point car harness, so Kiwi is fully supported. This comes in use if she needs to be helped over an obstruction or in the event she falls, she won't be choked or hurt by a single strap bearing all the weight. After she is over a year then she will start making use of the packs and carrying her own supplies on our outings. Mmmm, scooby snacks for the queen.
Another "feature" of Kiwi that these pictures show is that she likes to get up on things. Logs, boulders or whatever. Kinda like a natural agility course. Kiwi started doing this on her own. I certainly encourage it keeping safety in mind, but I think that won't be too much of a problem as a four-footed ACD is much better at analyzing what can and can be done than the baggage carrier. LOL. But I admit to taking advantage of her proclivity to be "queen of the object". This allows me to try and get some good pictures of her.