Betrayal

For the past few days, Bill and I have begun discussing training. We have had to hold off because of the extreme heat here. It has been a consistent 90 degrees throughout July and August. With this type of weather, it is better just to leave the dogs alone so that they don't get all worked up and overheated. We'll most likely start training when I get back from Vermont in mid-September. I am so excited to get those dogs out running.
To prepare for this, I have started feeding them a little extra each morning. They need to build up muscle and fat since they'll be burning it like crazy in a month. At that point, we'll have to start feeding them twice a day, as much as they can shovel down. Right now, there are 3 or 4 dogs that just need a little extra food because they're crazy. Take Oly for instance: Oly enjoys running 24/7 with a Kong toy in his mouth, Oly does not stop. Since he is excessively hyper, he tends to burn more calories and always needs more food. As a consequence, I have begun feeding him, along with Spit, Ahab, and Lynx, a little extra food at night, so as not to upset their stomachs with so much food in the morning.
Unfortunately, all 37 dogs recognize the kibble bucket. They jump in anticipation as I walk into their areas with the food and stare dejectedly as I walk away. Their faces are awash in the utter betrayal. How could I dare to give their neighbors food but not them? I try telling them that I don't have a choice and that they're going to get fat, but they are too hurt to listen.

Ares and Niva

The betrayal obviously ends the next morning when I arrive with the food once again. It is a constant cycle with these dogs. It's just a good thing that a quick scratch behind the ears can placate them...