This Is The Collie

I’m always looking for new topics to cover in the blog, and decided to combine our series of book reviews with my love of researching and sharing the history of the collie.  This week I wanted to share another “must have” addition to the our book list, for anyone wanting to learn more about the collie.  The book, This is the Collie, by Esther McCloskey, was originally published in 1963.

My copy was part of my Uncle Fran’s collection, which makes it even more special to me.  The book is well written and covers a variety of topics, from the origin of the collie, coat color inheritance, breeding and whelping puppies, showing and grooming, as well as many other topics.   I also love viewing the old pictures included in the chapters.

In this picture is Sally (Sara) Futh, of Starberry Collies, a well known collie breeder and highly respected judge.
 

I love reading these old books, containing the advice and breeding perspective of past collie experts.  They contain valuable information that might otherwise be lost to us.  I’m including an old dog food commercial that was filmed at Starberry Kennel.  Enjoy!

A Study of the Collie

I feel very fortunate to be a part of preserving a dog breed that has such a well documented history.  Being able to research our pedigrees online, and trace our collies’ ancestry all the way back to the first documented collies, is such an incredible gift.  This is largely due to the efforts of the Collie Club of America, our National club.  The CCA was formed in 1886, making it one of the oldest specialty clubs in America.  The American Kennel Club was formed in 1884, just two years earlier.  The CCA has had countless members working to carefully document and preserve our history.  They have many books and publications available for any newcomers to the breed, and for those who are just interested in learning more about the development of our beloved breed.

With that in mind, I thought I would share some of the books available for anyone interested in learning more about the collie.  This is only a partial list, as there are too many books and resources available to list them all in one post.  These are the ones that I have found to be particularly useful over the years.

The Collie by O.P. Bennett and C.H. Wheeler, written in 1924.  The authors were highly respected, as Dr. Bennett was a President of the Collie Club of America and C.H. Wheeler was an expert on the history and origins of the Collie in the United Kingdom.  The book is illustrated with rare vintage photographs of Collie Champions from 1874 through 1923.

The Magnificent Collie, by Patricia Starkweather, of  Glen Hill Collies.  This book was printed in 1997, and was written with the help of John Buddie of Tartanside Collies.  This book is a great resource, as it includes a chapter on the origins and history of the collie by Gayle Kaye, the breed standard, chapters on both the smooth and the rough collie, and information about influential collie breeders and kennels of the past.

Collie Concept, by George Bobbee Roos, 1988.  Roos shares her priceless knowledge and explains how to develop an eye for a dog, graphically illustrates balance, and teaches handling and care.

The New Collie, by the Collie Club of America.  There are different publications, with the white cover being the updated 1996 version and the red cover being the 1983 edition.  This is the book description: An important update of the story of one of America's most beloved purebreds, this book traces the Collie's origin from his beginnings as a herding dog in Scotland to the favorite of millions. With chapters on the Standard, on training, breeding, showing, grooming, breed character, general care and modern applications of the breed's natural herding ability, it's a "must have" reference.

And of course, I have to include American Collie Champions, published by the Collie Club of America.  There are eight separate volumes in the Library of Champions, beginning with volume 1, 1884 - 1961.  In each volume you will find pictures of all the collies who earned their championship title along with the names of their breeders and owners.  Learning the names of the collies in your pedigrees is fascinating, but having these books as a reference, to actually see pictures of those collies, is priceless!

There are many other books and resources for those interested in learning about the collie.  I will have to do additional posts to cover more of them.  Of course, after writing this, I want to go look through my own copies now!

Dog rescue and romance, a perfect combination!

As a dog lover, I have always loved reading books that feature dogs as either main characters or as a main part of the story line.  I am also a fan of romantic stories, of all kinds.  So when I can find a book that features dogs, memorable characters and romance, I am hooked.  Since reading is another one of my passions, I like to try to share some of my favorite books featuring dogs, here on the collie blog.   

This past year I have been reading a series of books, written by Roxanne St. Claire, that fall under the romance genre.  Her Dogfather series of books focuses on the lives of one special family, and each family member plays an important role in the family business, which is a canine training and rescue facility.  The family is one you can't help but love, as they are devoted to each other and they have a set of values that are too often lacking in books and movies these days.  The series follows Daniel Kilcannon, nicknamed "The Dogfather" by his family, as he plays matchmaker for each of his six adult children. 

I originally planned on reviewing just one of the books, but I couldn't decide on which one, as I loved them all.  The books are all sweet, and touching, and on the cover you will see an actual rescue dog from the Alaqua Animal Refuge in Florida.  A portion of the proceeds from each book in the series is donated to this shelter, so you are actually helping real shelter dogs find homes.  You can purchase these books right on Amazon, and they are available as paperback or as a digital copy for your Kindle.  I really enjoyed this series, and loved all the characters in the books.  There is even a Grandmother who blogs!  So if you are looking for something new to read, I hope you will give this series a try, and then please come back and let me know which book was your favorite.

A new book review for dog lovers!

Dorothy Bodoin is one of my favorite authors, as she writes mysteries that always involve a collie or two, and sometimes many more.  In her newest book, The Deadly Fields of Autumn, we return to Foxglove Corners and to the lives of Jennet Ferguson and her collies.  Jennet, a school teacher and member of collie rescue, is always stumbling upon some new mystery to solve.  And with the help of her friends and collies, Jennet always takes us on a new adventure.

In this newest book in the series, Jennet begins a new program in her rescue, where she places older collies with seniors looking for a companion.  Sounds innocent enough, but right after placing a collie with a woman named Charlotte, both the collie and woman disappear!  Before long Jennet is trying to track down the missing pair, solve a hit and run, and avoid a strange man who seems to have a case of road rage!  Want to know what happens?  You'll have to read the book yourself, to discover the answers.

The Deadly Fields of Autumn is the 25th book in Dorothy Bodoin's Foxglove Corners series.  Each book contains a different mystery, and can be read as a stand alone book, but they are best read in order as they are part of a continuing story.  These books are available in paperback or as a Kindle book.  If you enjoy fiction that features lovable dogs and mysteries, you should give these books a try.  Even though the books are occasionally spooky, I always end up laughing, as Jennet's collies remind me so much of my own collies.  I even have a favorite, the naughty Candy, and if you do read these books, I'd love to hear which of Jennet's collies is your favorite as well!

You can find a complete list of Dorothy Bodoin's books by clicking on the link:
Dorothy Bodoin books

Books for dog lovers...

Dogs make me smile, and not just my own dogs, all dogs have this effect.  When I am out running errands, or returning home from work, and I see a dog taking a walk with his or her person I have to smile.  So I can understand why so many residents at Nursing homes are excited when they see me walking down the hallway with my collie, Ryder.  I recently read two books that show just how deeply dogs can create positive change in peoples' lives.

The first book, Rescuing Finley, was written by Dan Walsh.  This book was very heartwarming, but you have to get past the first few chapters, which help set up the story.  The main characters are a young woman in a correctional facility, a veteran with PTSD, and a special dog called Finley.  This book did have me in tears a few times, but they were happy tears.  While it is a work of fiction, service dogs really can help soldiers suffering from PTSD, and they have made profound changes in the lives of inmates participating in training programs.  I highly recommend this book, and plan on reading it again sometime in the future.

The second book, Finding Riley, was also written by the same author, Dan Walsh. In this book, the main character is a dog named Riley.  He is the best friend of a little boy, and becomes lost during a family vacation.  As a dog lover, you can't help by worry about the fate of this little dog, but Dan Walsh does not disappoint the reader.

I really enjoyed both of these stories, and I can't wait to read his next book in this series.  While they weren't short stories, I flew through them in a matter of hours.  If you give them a try, please come back and let me know what you think!

Book review - fiction featuring dogs

I love reading, and I love to share my favorite books and authors with others.  Since Summer is here, and many people are looking for something new to read, I decided it was time for a new book review.

There are so many different types of books, but I have always preferred to read works of fiction.  And though I was never a fan of mysteries, Dorothy Bodoin has changed my mind.  She writes stories that are entertaining, and her characters are both engaging and personable.  But some of my favorite characters in her books are the collies.  The main character of her Foxglove series, Jennet, solves mysteries, takes care of her Victorian house, and rescues collies.  

The series starts with the book, Darkness at Foxglove Corners, and there are 23 books in the series.  The newest edition, Shadow of the Ghost Dog, was just released this week.  While I loved having a real book to read, my shelves were overflowing, so I ordered the Kindle edition.  I started reading the book yesterday, and finished it late, last night.  Which is why I am so tired today, but it was that good.  I couldn't put it down, and I enjoyed it immensely.  I wish there was another book in the series, but I have now read them all.  I just introduced her books to another collie lover, and she immediately bought the first four books in the series.  I'm a bit jealous, as she has all 23 books ahead of her.   Sadly, I will have to wait for her next book to come out, which Dorothy is currently writing.  I may just have to go back and reread some of my favorites.

In the book, Shadow of the Ghost Dog, Jennet is visiting a beautiful, storybook Victorian house with her friend Lucy.  While at the house, she hears a collie whimpering, and realizes that only she can hear the sad dog's cries.    As the story progresses Jennet will face a killer who is determined to keep secrets of the past hidden, while trying to learn why the ghost dog cries.  This book did have me in tears once or twice, but I loved that the story includes the belief that dogs do have souls. If you love mysteries, or just love a good dog story, you should add this book to your summer reading list.  Then stop back, I would love to hear what you think of the series!

Gifts for dog lovers

I'm a huge fan of Sci-Fi movies and TV shows.  I enjoy reading scary horror stories written by Stephen King and Dean Koontz.  And I can secretly watch those sweet, sentimental Christmas movies every night from Thanksgiving until Christmas Day with all the enthusiasm of a true fanatic.  But my favorite subject for books and movies has always been dogs, which if you are reading this, is probably yours as well.  So with December 25th fast approaching, I thought it would be a great time to do another book and movie review for dog lovers.

This time of year we are reminded to treat each other with love and kindness.  Dogs don't need the Christmas season to remember to show us how they feel.  No matter our failings, our dogs love us anyway,  Which is why humans have been writing stories and books that feature our best friends for centuries.  If you are looking for a gift for a dog lover, these books or movies might be the perfect gift.

Watchers by Dean Koontz

This is one of my favorite books, I must have read it a dozen times.  It is considered a horror novel, but one of the main characters is a beautiful golden retriever named Einstein.  The dog escapes a lab where he was being experimented on by scientists, and runs into Travis, a man considering ending his life.  Not only does Einstein save Travis, he changes his life and the lives of others.

A Dog's Life, The Autobiography of a Stray by Ann Martin

This is another favorite of mine that I have read countless times.  While it is classified as young adult fiction, it has appeal for people of any age.  This book is about a dog named Squirrel, a stray, who faces heartbreak and many hardships during her years as an unwanted, homeless dog.  This book is written from Squirrel's perspective.  It has the power to move the reader to tears, but it is equal parts heart wrenching and heartwarming.

The Christmas Collie by Ted Paul

This children's book is simply beautiful.  The artwork is charming and the story is written in poetic verse.  Any child who enjoys dog stories will love this book, and adults will also be enchanted as well.  As a collie lover, the story always brings a tear (or two) to my eyes, and it remains a favorite each Christmas season.  If you are looking for a sweet children's book, this one will be sure to delight both you and your child.  But you don't have to take my word for it, you can view the illustrations and listen to the story right here:

And last, I wanted to include a favorite movie.  It is one of the Lassie movies, but it isn't as well known as others.  "Lassie, Best Friends are Forever," was released in 1994.  In this movie, Lassie the collie, finds a family who needs her, and intuitively helps them adjust to a new life in the country.  Lassie bonds with the son, helps him make new friends and will have you hugging your own dog close.  It is a perfect movie to watch while curled up on the couch on a cold, Winter's day.  So if you don't have this movie yet, you may want to add it to your video collection or buy it as a gift for a dog lover this holiday season.

Books and Movies for Dog Lovers

I love books, I love reading, and I love collies.  I also love movies about dogs and specifically collies.  So from time to time I like to feature a movie or book that I particularly enjoyed.  This month I decided to feature not just a book, but the series of books written by author Dorothy Bodoin.  Her books are in the genre of romantic suspense/mysteries, with characters you can't help but love.  And what drew me to her books is that each story includes a collie or two as main characters.





The series is set in Foxglove Corners, and feature the heroine, Jennet Greenway and her rough collie, Halley.  In each book she makes new friends, solves mysteries and rescues collies.   In a world where people want to be entertained with exciting blockbusters these books are simple.  They describe a life where values and peaceful moments with friends, both human and canine, are treasured.  And the added mysteries keep the reader trying to figure out the plot and what is going to happen next.  I highly recommend you check out these books, you may become as addicted to them as I am!  The first book in the series is Darkness At Foxglove Corners, and the newest book, The Stone Collie will be released in February 2016.  (I'm counting the days!) 

You can find these books on Amazon for either your kindle or you can order a paperback version.  The complete list of her series can be found on Dorothy's website:  www.dorothybodoin.com
If you do give her books a try, please come back here and let me know what you think.  I'd love to hear from you!

You can check out our last book review here:  books-and-movies-for-dog-lovers

Books and movies for dog lovers...

Do you have favorite dog books or movies?  We have many, and thought it might be fun to share a few with you each month.  Since we love collies, our first post features books and movies about collies, which shouldn't be a surprise.

The first book we want to mention is Gray Dawn, written by Albert Payson Terhune.  If you read our recent post about Sunnybank then you know Terhune's collies really existed, and lived at Sunnybank.  (If you haven't read about Sunnybank, click on this Link.) This book was written in 1927, and like many of Terhune's books, the writing and opinions are a product of that time period.  But even though some of the notions are not politically correct, I love the characters in this book.  The most lovable of all his collies, Dawn is a young puppy who is sweet and clumsy, facing his fears to "save" the people he loves from danger.  Gray Dawn is not without faults, but those faults endear him to the reader and made me fall in love with his courage.

Lad: A Dog, is a movie based on one of Terhune's most popular books of the same title.  Lad is a hero, and his story is told in such a way that you can tell he was a beloved and treasured companion.  (And why we named our first collie, Lad). The movie was recently released on DVD, and can be purchased on Amazon.  It's a great movie for a rainy afternoon, curled up on the couch with your best four-legged friend.

 The next movie is a well known classic.  This movie made collies famous, and is the reason most rough collies are greeted with "Hi Lassie!" From strangers where ever they go!  It tells the story of Lassie's love and loyalty for her family, and how nothing can keep her from returning to her boy's side.  I don't know how many times I have watched this movie, but it always brings tears to my eyes.

And last, but not least, Wolf.  This book is about Lad's son, Wolf.  I love this book, I love this collie.  Most of the stories written by Terhune are works of fiction, with elements of truth throughout the stories.  The ending of this book will make you cry, possibly even sob if you are anything like me, because it is a true story about a courageous collie.