Vivi

Blogging may be light this weekend. I am on call, plus we have a new member of our family/pack that must be integrated. Vivi is a Cardigan Welsh Corgi. Like Darla, she is a herding dog, originally bred to herd cattle in Wales. As a youngster, she was selected for conformation, and holds several championships. Darla, a Pembroke Welsh Corgi, has no tail. By contrast, Cardigan Welsh Corgis have a full, long tail.

Corgis are "droving" herders, driving cattle to market from behind. Often called a big dog in a small package, they are alert for predators, with their big ears rotating like antenna dishes. The Corgi was bred to be short so they could avoid the kicks from cattle which fly harmlessly over the dog's back.

Vivi's owner was recently diagnosed with brain cancer, and she could no longer care for Vivi. This evening we drove over to pick up Vivi, and she and Little Darling instantly bonded.

Ilsa is overjoyed to have a playmate that will actually play with her. Vivi is determined to try to herd Ilsa. Darla, always the alpha canine in the house, is pissed and aloof. Over the next few days, between cases at the hospital, I will be trying to get all three of them used to each other, and keep the transition to a new home a smooth one for Vivi.

Vivi will be Little Darling's first dog of her own. She has had cats, lizards, fish, and other critters as pets. It's time she learned the wonder of being one with a canine.