This page is devoted to the special dogs we have lost. Bonnie, Daisy, Toy and Lucas were such a huge part of our lives. The very start of our breeding program in Aussies. They won't be forgotten. 
My Life as a Dog

I domesticated my animal nature: instincts, needs, rhythms, and vital joy
—in order to live in your house.

I listened and learned, ears perked, to your orders and to your intonations.
I understood your codes.

I knew how to constrain myself to go gently, so as not to knock over the child,
the grandmother and the "petit animal à moustaches." (the cat)

From each one of you, I knew how to take or to ask for flattery and play.
I loved your company,  whether playful or calm.

I was proud of my duty to guard the gate, the front step, and the household,
watching for intruders.

And I still had my own secret kingdom out in the garden, or while out on a
 walk, where I could unleash in nature the original power of my senses.

I entered into this bond with you without fear of submission
— for we gave one another respect.

When next I had to die, it was without knowing sickness or decline. I left
 dignified and without complaint, all-the-while understanding your tears.

In our exchanges, I taught you different and specific emotions : that of
 animalité : those instinctual codes that you had lost. I offered you
another relationship with nature.

For all of this, I am proud, and I know that you will have other dogs so as
to continue this sharing.

("Ma Vie de Chien" was written in French by Marie-Françoise Vidal
after her dog Jaby made it over Le Pont de l'Arc-en-ciel.)

Bonnie when she was young Bonnie in later years
Bonnie was our first.  She died in 2007, almost 16 years old. She is 
the reason why Aussies are such a huge part of our lives. 
(Click pictures to enlarge)
Daisy
Regalstar's Daisy Crocket "Daisy"
Toy
Ch. Caledonia's Toymaker "Toy"
Toy
"Toy"
Lucas
Kirrabilli's Kool Hand Luke "Lucas"