This morning, I took Lei and Kodiak up into the trails. Even with my foot being injured, I know the dogs still need to be exercised. The trails are the easiest way for that to happen. They can be off leash, running free and there are so many scents for them to chase.

Because I couldn’t walk very far, I ended up throwing rocks into the woods at the side of the main trail. They had a fun time crashing through the underbrush trying to figure out just what mom threw anyway!

I couldn’t even think about going up the hills, so we turned around to go back to the truck. It was then I heard a noise behind us. At first, I thought it might be a horseman so I was hustling the dogs (as much as I could hustle) because they already chase my horses. God only knows what they would do with horses they didn’t know!

Turned out to be a hiker. A man who was out for his morning walk. Two interesting things happened; first Lei, who is known for jumping and lunging at people, she stood her ground around me and barked protectively. This is the FIRST time I have seen any shepherd tendencies from her. Kodiak, on the other hand took one look at the stranger and headed straight for the truck. She ran away so fast, I had no idea she could run like that! So much for her being protective! She beat feet like a rocket ship.

I shared the rest of the trail with the gentleman with Lei close by. He told me that two cougars had been spotted a few days ago near the trail. Not good news. I was glad to hear the warning. Next time, when I do go, I will be packing protection. Lei couldn’t stand her own next to a cougar, and Kody already showed me how much help she would be, so I guess I will resort to Smith & Wesson or Colt to protect me!