Well, I’ve been here at the ranch just shy of one month now. I didn’t know what was coming that day, leaving my foster mom, and friends, behind,
trusting kind strangers, flying in 3 different planes to get here.
Now I know what was coming: a great life, even with those pesky cats.
And, after learning the routine and sleeping a lot, I’m figuring out my job here. 
Being a cowdog, right away I knew it was my job to wrangle the residents of my new home. I live inside, have several comfy beds, but of course choose my couch most of the time. 
I struggle to learn what to do with those cats, but have quickly learned what NO CATS! means, as I went after them at times when, apparently, it was NOT my job.
One of my responsibilities is to vigorously test all toys, and keep a nice full toy box.
I follow mom closely. It is my job to go where she goes. I don’t like it when she leaves me behind; then I lay in front of the door, so she cannot sneak out again. It is my job to herd everyone, but I think they have some responsibility to cooperate too. 
My new dad is gone often and I don’t always ride along, but I know what time he comes home, and lay by the door, waiting and listening for him late in the evening. 
I am trusted now to go outside frequently without that long line or a leash. I come quick when I’m called, and treat every “reunion” with joy. Sometimes, I’m back so fast mom doesn’t even know I’m there! I’m right behind you! 
I am not allowed out loose after dark, though, as I’ve heard mention of something called “skunk.” I don’t believe I encountered that in the desert where I used to live!
I “Load up!” when I’m told, then ride the 4-wheeler, to help feed horses, let out the chickens and check the cows. Most of the time, I stay when I’m told to stay.
I’ve learned that it is not part of my job to herd the wild deer and turkeys that still hang around, hoping to grab some stray corn, while they wait for green grass and new leaves. Sometimes I can’t help running straight through the crowd, though, just to watch them scatter and fly overhead. They still need to respect the cowdog in charge! 
It is also my job to:
Patrol the ranch from the porch.
It is my job to manage the whole place. As the snow melts, my territory expands, from creek bottoms to the tall piney peaks. Yup – I’m up for the job.
Enjoy my treats and fresh bones with relish. I eat my good food, sample the cats, and beg at the dinner table – that way my people know I appreciate the efforts in fine dining.
Lay close to my people, smile often, and give them every chance to scratch my belly. 
My job description includes playing with small boys, even letting them dress me up. I do think I rock the patriotic look, though! 
Always be polite to the cats, share my bed with them, and try to someday even play with them, if possible. I don’t know – cats be crazy. 
I work hard at following my people from room to room, watching them to make sure they know I’m on duty, and sitting on their feet.
As time goes by, I’ll find more work to do, and perfect my cowdog ranch management. 
A month ago, I didn’t know I would have this important job.
Maybe that is why my family is so happy – they needed me.
It is my job, like every good Heeler, to love my people and weld myself to their souls.
I’ll do my job, with grit, energy and love for the rest of my life.
