Petside.com

Event: Swimming
Hometown: Vallejo, California
Four medals in 2004. Second Olympic Games

Pet's Name: SheRa
Breed: Blue & Tan Border Terrier
Age: 3-years-old

Where did you get your pet?
I never thought I would ever have a small dog. I grew up with a German Shepherd, Great Dane and Doberman Pincher. A friend of mine had a Border Terrier and after I met it, I completely changed my mind. When I got SheRa, I was living in a condo and it was much more practical to have a small dog.

I spent a lot of time going to dog shows and "proving" myself to the breeders, and finally I got SheRa. Border Terriers are not that common of a breed and the breeders are extremely selective as to whom they give them to. I even had to agree to show SheRa! After two shows, and two first in puppy class ribbons (!), I decided that showing was not for her or me.

What is your dog's favorite thing to do?
Chase any animal that wanders into our yard (i.e. turkey, deer, skunk, squirrels, etc.)

How did you train SheRa?
The gentle leader face harness is a Godsend. It's really important to walk or run your dog every day. I don't believe in choke collars because they reinforce bad habits. I tried to use a regular harness for SheRa but she was way too strong (even at 17 pounds). After I tried the gentle leader a year ago, I have never gone back. It completely changes how you walk your dog and how they act.

Does your dog help you train?
We run together every day. There's a 3-mile trail by my house that we like to go to. SheRa determines how fast we run and lately it's been pretty fast. I think she's getting too fit. :)

What your favorite thing she does?
I LOVE how she exhibits the full range of emotions. Most of the time she loves you, but she definitely has attitude. She gets grumpy/moody and she shows it! Sometimes she pouts and gives you the stink eye and other times she runs around the house absolutely crazy happy. I love her for that.

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