Hello, sorry for my long absence. it's been a very busy summer. I am here to give an update on Atlas. He has had a very hard summer. He came up limping badly late last winter. It was to the point of almost not being able to walk. We took him to the vet and he was diagnosed with anaplasma (a tick disease somewhat like lime disease). We were very surprised because the previous owner had him on a strict veterinary program which we have continued. We suspect that he contracted the disease as a puppy in Canada. Our first impression of him was a big healthy 1 1/2 year old dog but a little tender on his feet. 

The prognosis was not good. Some dogs can recover but it seems most will suffer long term effects like arthritis. He was taking three different medications for three months along with a very restricted exercise program. All he had was leash walks three times per day. It has been a slow recovery but I am pleased to tell you he is MUCH improved. We will not know for a while if he is completely recovered but the signs are encouraging.

Atlas made it easy for us to care for him. He is so patient and has such a big heart! Along with his disease problem he suffered a very bad cut on his paw. More down time! Again, he is long on patience. Our hearts went out to him as we watched him wanting to be out and doing his job. This brings me to another topic. His job.

As we are new to this type of dog we were not sure just what to expect. We have 50 acres and run a few head of sheep, goats, horses and chickens along with various barn cats. He has made the transition from a city dog to a country dog very well. He has had very little training from us. Mostly we just watch his remarkable instincts kick in. We gave up having him be a full time sheep/goat guardian dog. He didn't get started early enough for that. He plays too rough with the sheep/goats. He actually took a patch of wool off one of the sheep. That being said he is extremely vigilant for predators. He even watches the sky for raptors! During his recovery we kept him in the house and he/we decided we like it that way. He is not a demanding house guest BUT he does take up a lot of room. He is mostly quiet but will occasionally rattle the windows with that big powerful bark of his!

Atlas will be with us forever. He is very loving and lovable. He does not get along well with cats. Shock collars do not work on him. He loves people and hates snowmobiles. He loves snow. Loves to eat snow. We had him in a kennel for a week while we took a trip to Kentucky. He was a huge hit with everyone there.

Atlas has been a wonderful addition to our family. I don't know if I can recommend this type of dog for all families but he is per4fectly content with us.