Speak! Jennifer McCarthy's Blog: Nature / Colorado Archives

Nature / Colorado

You & Your Dog's Relationship With One Another...

Posted by jennifer on November 7, 2011.

There are two things that both humans and dogs share at a very primitive level. These two things are at the core source of our relationship to our best friends since time began. Where and how you eat and where and how you sleep is a building block from which we have formed a close partnership (originating in wolves) for many years.

In order to understand four legged animals better, a human must break him or herself down to simplicity. We must all be conscious of where our food comes from (the earth) and our need to attain territory (a house, a ranch or a condo. on 5th Ave.) We also must realize that in order to keep warm, we used animal's fur to create clothes, assemble tools, etc.

Dog's still remain connected to these primary instincts in a way that has become quite foreign to people. If it's not foreign, people don't really think too much about it. They still go about their day, on their cell phones at the gym, on Facebook, at their job or driving around in a car.  Dogs still go out and sniff the ground, chase the cat or bark at the dog passing by their house. They eat each other's poop, mark their territory and growl when they have something that they don't want you to take away.

When they eat food, they see the food coming from the bowl (no longer from a hand or thrown a few extra pieces of meat). They don't have to hunt for this food because we didn't hunt for it (unless you consider going to Whole Foods or Safeway a form of hunting). So in truth, there's no point behind it other than they (and we) are hungry and it tastes good. Food has essentially lost it's meaning to both humans and dogs.

Let's suppose you and your dog had to survive. Dog's have a much better sense of smell- some dogs are even bred to hunt wild boar and the like. Even if you have a Chihuahua, you may be able to catch a lizard or two with a more powerful nose. If you had to rely on your dog to find food, you both would have to assert some form of exercise and travel.

There is something about this primitive excursion which makes the dog more satisfied. Exercise away from the home where both dog and owner travel by foot before meals is key to tapping into getting back to being an animal yourself and understanding your dog on a more profound level.

After spending weeks hunting in the rockies with two wolves and three dogs to find kill sites, I know what this feels like. The satisfaction of working for food is something so bonding and yet so primitive. If you truly want to become close with your dog, exercising before meals and allowing the dog to see you eat first while they cool off is key. Once you hand the bowl over or feed from your hand, the dog realizes the job was well done.

Sleep is another form of becoming closer to our dog's on a ground level and understanding how our best friends view the world. Where you lay your head at night is a key statement of your status as well as your independence. A good leader in a dog pack asserts independence by sleeping alone (within proximity to other dogs) and prefers to sleep inside warmth or on top of something to look out. Your bed is your high point from which to see in case the pack needs protection. Your role as leader (you are the leader simply by giving food) is to protect your pack. This means, dogs sleep on their beds in your room on the floor and you sleep in your bed at the highest point.

It is time we understand animals from their viewpoint instead of assuming they should understand us from ours. It is also time we understand that we are all animals and not to forget that just because we have made advancements in technology, growth and discoveries such as oil doesn't mean we still can't be connected to other creatures and the earth in a more authentic and grounded way.

"What is a man without the beasts? If all the beasts were gone, men would die form great loneliness of spirit, for whatever happens to the beasts also happens to man." -- Chief Seattle

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Hello From The Wilderness...

Posted by jennifer on November 4, 2011.

Hello Everyone-
I'm sorry it's taken me so long to write a new blog. I have been working with a ghost writter in Los Angeles on a book that I think will make up for all my off-line time and I think it will be well worth the wait!

In the mean time, there has been so much to report from the year 2011- so many things that I don't even know where to begin. For starters, I moved from high up in the Rockies to a horse barn outside of Prescott, Az. Quite literally- I lived in the barn and if I opened up one of the windows, a horse could stick his head inside and eat hay in my living room!

What was so fascinating about this experience was that I was actually able to document a pack of coyotes on the ranch and the resident dogs communicating to one another. It was one of the most amazing things to hear- coyotes that learned to bark like dogs and dogs who learned how to yip!

I worked on the ranch with the horses, dogs and cats and from there, I was able to get a 5 acre property to run the K-9 Ranch Training Center in Prescott. This has given my clients amazing access who live in California and Nevada and I've had a lot of customers wanting to make the drive out here.

I have also had the opportunity to live side by side some of the world's most venomous creatures- scorpions, rattlesnakes and tarantualas which has given me a lot of appreciation for these other species in the high desert.

I have been actively following the Mexican Grey Wolf program, attending meetings and staying in touch with what's happening on the front lines.
In my spare time, I've done more natural hosemanship and have gone riding quite a bit in both Az. & Co.

This past year has certainly brought a lot of opportuniites for my on-going education
as well as taught me more about living in a new environment.

As we enter 2012 I think it's important for me to talk a little about our relationship with the natural world. I know that times are tough for a lot of people out there and although I've seen both sides of the coin, I have also chosen to live a life closer to mother nature- whether in a tent, in a tee-pee or in a house at 9,000 ft.

I often talk a lot about the human species dllema as it relates to people's pets but I think now it's time to broaden that message to engulf many of our friends in forest, ocean, etc.

The one disadvantage our species has is our need for self fullfillment, growth and expansion. We seem to have a hard time with simplicity. It's really hard for us all to slow down, make compassionate choices on a daily basis that really will be affecting the very lives that walk this earth in the future.

Non-human animals have this advatage. For example, the wolf who has done it's job so well, that it was able to survive the ice age. Other animals are more intellegent than the human species in ways in which we cannot understand. For example, meet the dog who can sniff out a seizure well before it happens, meet the horse who can see the slightest movement in a tree or the shark who can smell 10,000 times more than we can ever comprehend!

If there's one thing I have learned, is to view various creatures using these different senses at higher levels to actually learn from them. My brain may not be able to process a smell like a dog's brain can, but I have figured out exactly what they are doing through their nose just by merely spending time watching them. I took this knowledge and used it to smell plants & trees in a way I had never thought of before which helps me understand the way they think to assit them in tracking, scent and search work at a higher level.

I believe that by allowing oneself to step into this role as an equal and sometimes a student, not as a superior, can bring more appreciation for the natural world. Animals do things for a reason- humans do things for a need and that need is no longer survival it's consumption, growth and expansion. All resources are finite. They will not last forever and if there comes a time when you have to feed your family, step into the backyard and create a vegtable garden, it's a step towards getting back in touch with the natural world.
Change can be terrifying but also at the same time an opportunity for a new beginning.

It is my hope that through everything that is going on in our economic climate, we can all get back to the simple things in life because that's what helps species survive in the long haul. I believe we are on the verge of something great that has already started to be more concious of our environment, the choices we make and why having other animals around such as wolves, mountain lions, sharks, coyotes, etc. is so important. I encourage all who wish for adventure to embrace each circumstance, look for the good in everything and take great appreciation for our mammal and non-mamal friends as we can certainly learn a lot from them!

Best to you and your dog (or wolf/wolf-dog!) from Prescott, Az.
Jennifer

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To Be Animal...

Posted by jennifer on January 24, 2011.

To be animal, to understand what makes a human detached from its own comrades of mammals, you have to live it, you have to breathe it and essentially, "Be wild"...

Years ago, I had asked the most fundamental question that every human being seeks on the planet: Why am I here and what am I supposed to be doing.

I had worked in almost every aspect of the dog business, grew up riding horses, scuba dove and lived on boats all over the Caribbean but my most extreme hurdle was not in understanding the animals. It was the human psychology behind the issues & problems that I was faced with on a daily basis.

I couldn't wrap my head around one thing: How and why do humans think they are no different from a dog, cat, wolf or horse? Sure, we have more developed brains but is that a good thing? As far as I knew, the human race was facing many issues including over population, global warming and war to name a few. I saw wolves develop similar family systems in the wild and survive the ice age. We are still a new species to some animals and I had a feeling that some of them knew that. It seems that wolves had us from the beginning, they used us to get food and here we have the domestic dog. This basic and simplistic way of living for some species worked-they had survived when others had died off and in some terms, it made them wiser.

Most humans don't go around thinking every day in simplistic terms. We get to work, pay the bills and purchase what we need to eat, wear, live under and travel in. Rarely does a person hunt on foot, study a herd, live outside and wear what he kills & will eat.

I decided to head out to Colorado to work with wolves and detach from society as much as possible to study the interactions between my dogs & horses, cattle and wildlife high up in the mountains above Boulder. This extreme way of living taught me more in my career and in life than I had ever anticipated. I wanted to know what it was like to live life on the food chain without a gun and be to some extent, an animal in the wild.

Once removed from the ongoings of society, you let go of a lot of facades. What was once important became non-essential. I began to process a raw, more substantial outlook on life that didn't revolve around material things or complex social interactions.

I saw how much we are all sold products of someone else's life-things that other humans make as an impression of their ideas but not based upon who we are as people. Certain human issues became less important and I became focussed on studying and learning from my comrades in the forest.

Animals live life in the same way people do at fundamental levels. They experience joy, heart ache, depression, sadness, loneliness, happiness and excitement to name a few. Some are social creatures that like to have fun and play games but all struggle to survive. They eat, rest, sleep, travel, work, play and have families. I found more "humanness" in the woods than I found animal or maybe I was finding more animal in all of us as humans.

As my journey continued, I saw acts of tolerance between different species, I saw kindness and forgiving and I saw what makes life worth living to all of us on planet earth. This experience as animal, has me convinced that I learned more about being a human from other mammals. We can learn more from other species because they are our comrades. We should not deny the fact that we are one of them.

My journey continues to this day and as I seek to find answers in helping humans and animals co-exist, I only find myself going farther in search of my true purpose.

From the eastern shores of Africa to the reefs off the coast of Australia to the most remote corners of Yellowstone, I continue to gain more knowledge, grow more as a person and become increasingly skilled with what I do to share with anyone who needs help or is interested in listening.

To relate this all back to your pet has great significance because I believe in not speaking from a human perspective but a perspective of your pet. What other species teach me breaks way to a new understanding of working with one as an equal, not as a greater species which harbors great compassion and understanding for domestic pets and their human owners.

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Thanks :-)

Posted by jennifer on October 30, 2010.

Hey Everyone-
Thank you all for the beautiful messages and support I've been receiving from the airing of the Wolf-Dog special last night on the National Geographic Channel. There's much more to come as things are moving quickly in a bigger direction... With that said, I have many more research projects I'll be talking about, my work with coyotes and ranch dogs, horses, the Mexican Gray Wolf Program and much, much more! So stay tuned in here to my blog to get the latest news and I look forward to meeting more of you out there on this wonderful journey of helping animals. Howl and woof to you all!
All my best,
Jennifer

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You're Invited: Dog Whisperer Premiere Event!

Posted by jennifer on October 9, 2010.

To see the invitation, click here:

Dog_Whisperer_4x6_100710[1]2.pdf

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How Your Thoughts Can Affect Your Relationship With Animals...

Posted by jennifer on September 1, 2010.

Some of the characteristics to the human brain are meant to problem solve, create, think and sometimes over think. We can obsess in our thoughts, try to control situations when in reality, we have no control, we can analyze and carry around garbage from the past that no longer serves us.
All of these things-I have learned over the years, can be detrimental to working in co-operation with pets and other non-human animals. For example, if I see a client who has an aggressive dog and I am in fear, anger or any emotion that heightens my awareness from an equal level when I walk in the door, this could immediately trigger an attack.
A practice I have learned is to meditate and leave all my thoughts outside the door. If I have a hard time letting go of a thought, a good thing to visualize is placing that topic of thoughts onto an object to be picked up at a later point.
I have had to do some drastic things in order to maintain results-some of which include working with human beings that have all sorts of things going on only to see this mirrored in their pet.
Sometimes, it is helpful to detach owner and dog while an owner can write down all their thoughts, fear, anger and obsessions and release this in a ceremonious fashion in the woods where it is to be left for good or picked up later before they are ready to handle the leash.
At other times, I find myself teaching breathing techniques to lower the heart rate of a person who is fearful of walking her aggressive dog. This also is a fundamental thing I have learned in researching sharks.
Once these thoughts are released, you can now come from a much healthier platform and your best friend will respond much more efficiently. Animals are much more in tune and sensitive than you may realize and all operate instinctively off their owners.
If you are having a bad day or something isn't right in your life, look to your dog, cat, horse, etc., and they'll honestly let you know something is wrong.
Once you look within to fixing yourself first, your dog is the easy part!
Best Wishes From the Ranch,
Jennifer

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Gorongosa...

Posted by jennifer on July 21, 2010.

My time at Gorongosa was one of the best times of my life. I intend to go back as more animals are re-introduced. I toured the re-introduction pen for Hyenas which will be there soon as well as the area for Zebras, etc. to be transported to the area after all studies are completed. To put my experience in words and pictures would not be doing Gorongosa justice. The people I met, the stories of war, survival and the resilient hope I saw in people's eyes was nothing short of amazing. And to think this was- at one time, the most abundant game area in all of Africa.

I heard about the restoration project going on there at a premiere party in Denver for their National Geographic Special- "Africa's Lost Eden". When I heard the story, I immediately thought of the wolf re-introduction project in Yellowstone that very well changed not only the ecology, people's perception of how important keystone predators are but also the huge advances that were made with the Trophic Cascade, etc.
The idea of an area going through these changes with so many species not only fascinated me but I wanted to be a part of it. Something told me I had to go to Africa...

This trip has not only given me more knowledge of such amazing creatures, the landscape and people that have a love/hate relationship with nature but it has changed me not only professionally but personally.
I felt that by connecting with people living in such poverty, sitting down and eating corn with them and their struggles to put food on the table for their family that it gave me a different perspective. I understood why so many had come to a last resort and went trecking into the park and poaching an animal to survive- they had nothing to eat. On the flip side, I had dinner with Carlos Lopes Pereira, Gorongosa's Director of Conservation. A man I have much respect for given the huge task in front of him. (By the way, Carlos is a former canine handler and used Belgian Malinois to de-mine many areas of the park.) He talked to me about the other poachers- the ones making money by killing an Elephant for it's tusks and killing Rhino's for their horns. These animals were killed for money- left to die. Carlos's first task was to secure the park from poachers which employed a local task force of guards patrolling the perimeter every 10 or so meters but sometimes the poachers would still get in. One poacher even lost his pants somewhere in the bush that were left behind as he was chased off, so there is a pantless poacher somewhere in or outside Gorongosa National Park incase you happen to spot him. Overall however, poaching has signifigantly decreased since protecting the area but it is still an issue that the park faces weekly.

The problems Gorongosa faces are all but similar to management in Yellowstone. Monitoring behavior patterns and keeping close tabs on animals that may not be used to cars driving off at any little sign of an elephant charge or something similar but the bottom line is this- Of the few animals that did survive the brutal civil war, they did so through adaptation. The crocs. are so scared of humans that they immediately run for the water. Not only are the animals in trauma recovery but the people too. Some had lost 6-7 family members per family. I met one man who survived for 24 hrs. in the river with the crocodiles by breathing through some sort of reed stick like a straw as to not get shot by the enemy.

Since the park has had a second chance thanks to American philanthropist, Gregory Carr, The Carr Foundation and the Government of Mozambique, things are only looking up. I visited a school and clinic that was built in one of the nearby local communities. I shook the hand of the Dr. and nurses that were excited to have us visit and I saw that over 400 local people in the nearby towns now were employed for the park and had steady jobs.

My hope here is that once more animals will be re-introduced, there will be no fences surronding Gorongosa and that the people and animals can learn to live peacefully. I hope that poachers can find other means of making money and I hope that studies are done as this park emerges back to what it used to be- Africa's first Serengeti so that we may continue to learn, preserve and protect what is important for generations to come.

I have every inkling of going back for a longer period of time after more animals are re-introduced and I hope to raise awareness and support for this important cause. This is like our Yellowstone but with only a portion of the wildlife- so far.

Mozambique is one of the poorest countries in the world and I think I may have seen only one or two Americans the whole time I was there. The war is now over though and the beaches are beautiful. I also swam with two whale sharks and visited the largest research area for whale sharks in the world.
The hotels have opened their doors and slowly, new ones are being built. This gem of a country is on it's way to hitting the world stage and I'm proud to say that Gorongosa will be a part of that.

On a bad note, I did fracture my ankle in Africa at the end of my trip including a severe sprain, torn tissues, etc. I am on the mend but will be back running with the wolves and training man's best friend very soon. For now, here are a few pictures with more available shortly at: www.http://www.photoshelter.com/c/jennifermccarthy.com. These images are also available for purchase through that site. I will also be posting links to organizations to donate to Gorongosa National Park very soon...

This is an ungulate we thought may have been poached. Upon further inspection, it died in a fight by another animal's horn...

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New Adventures...

Posted by jennifer on June 14, 2010.

Today I am heading home after spending some time with my friend Henry (a high percentage wolf-dog) as he recovers from an injury from hiking last week. It's one thing to get a 100 lb. animal that is pretty much all wolf, into the back of my Jeep and into emergency care. It's another thing getting him down the mountain, into the emergency clinic off a high traffic area street, going through surgery and then successfully adopting a lamp shade collar. Then after this, having to take him back to the emergency clinic after he figures out how to chew through the collar and pull out his drainage tube. I am happy to report that Henry is now doing well and is no longer resisting the lampshade although many objects tend to fall or get knocked over in his path.

I have a busy next two months ahead of me- I am leaving for Africa in two weeks, packing up a lot of my things into storage and when I return, heading to Arizona to begin a journey back to horses, coyotes, the Mexican Gray Wolf and coexistence issues between wildlife and ranchers. You may be wondering why I do all of this and you will soon find out as I launch a new behavioral concept this fall right here on my website based on four years of research. Don't worry, it still has to do with dogs but on a much broader spectrum.

After heading to Az. for one week, I am then in L.A. to meet with clients then up to a horse ranch where I will be living at for 1-2 years. I will still have my current locations and will eventually be heading back to Colorado but will still be there to meet with clients as I do in L.A. & Vegas in the meantime.

This is good news for those in Los Angeles and in Scottsdale, Prescott & Phoenix as I will be in these areas more often now to service those that need my help.
With all of this research, I have come to find some great advancements in the world of non-human animals so stay tuned for some amazing new information coming soon!
I am off to pack and gather up my equipment for some tent living in the bush of Gorongosa National Park as I document the re-introduction of species similar to that of the wolves in Yellowstone. I will be gathering information on local struggles between wildlife and livestock and see if they are having success with the Hyena and Wild Dog packs that run through the park and into local communities.
Off to pack and will blog from the road!
Best wishes,
Jennifer

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Filming Pics....

Posted by jennifer on May 13, 2010.

These are some pictures from filming a wolf transport across 5 states with a wolf, 4 of her week old puppies and the wolf-dog father. It took 3 hrs. to crate her using no tranquilizers, no catch poles as she viciously protected the pups as any mother wolf would. We encountered a tornado warning, hail, blinding rain, heat and snow on this journey to release them in their new home...

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Living With Nature As Your Neighbor...

Posted by jennifer on April 6, 2010.

Today I stood starring into the eyes of a collared bobcat in the Santa Monica Mountains. To my left was a Great Horned Owl with big golden eyes, flapping his wingspan above me- so close I was captivated by this beautiful essence of wildlife.
I was ironically just outside of Los Angeles and in the midst of a breath-taking environment straight out of a post card. In the far distance, I could hear cars humming on the freeway. I was so close to these animals which is much closer than I would be near my own home in the Rocky Mountains. I felt sense of sadness come over me that here they were in all their glory- trapped in a pocket surrounded by over development, Starbucks, homes and McDonald's. If only Los Angeles had more of this I thought. What a place it would be!
I had access to a biologist with a tracking collar on this beautiful beast of feline but then would find myself meeting with THE ONLY WILDLIFE person in the ENTIRE CITY of well over 9 million people. How could it be that I get more complaints from pet owners worried about their yorki in the hills of L.A. and yet only one person held such a position in a city so large?In some sense, it feels unbalanced.
How is it that we care more about our domestic companions than our wild ones? I can remember giving a wildlife lecture here a couple of years ago that I could count the number of people attending on one hand yet with dogs, it was a full house. For every person out there donating to a dog, cat or horse sanctuary there are all too few wild animal sanctuaries going down the tubes. Don't get me wrong- please support our domestics but caring for our wildlife is just as important and understanding how to KEEP IT WILD is more important now more than ever.
I often find it ironic that if a person is stung by bees doing what they naturally do, no one is called to the scene to investigate the bee's bad choice in behavior. Yet, if a coyote, mountain lion, bear, wolf, etc. has put one claw mark (or even just chased or charged in some cases), that predator has to be immediately killed. Is this saying that animals should be treated differently?
Human beings need to understand what it means to live in harmony with nature. It is the common bind that keeps us in good/bad, evil or angelic- you can either love nature too much or not care about it at all.
Nature and "wildness" runs through your blood as much as it runs through the super model's blood on a New York, fashion runway. Our very connection to the earth and protecting it is mis-understood by many people. Feeding any form of wildlife will eventually lead to that animal's death. Not caring about wildlife will lead to more animals and land disappearing. We are entering a new time of awareness & awakening that I believe will connect us back to our humanness as an animal and to our past.
Right now as I type, more log homes are being built in mountain ranges, more hotels and ski resorts. The smog levels in our National Parks will rise this summer unbelievably from lines of cars taking pictures and engines idling. People want more nature and with the internet, more people are expanding outwards from cities to get it. However, did you know that you are actually creating less wear on the environment by living in a city and staying closer to a local grocery store, coffee shop and dry cleaner? Have you considered that by feeding wildlife, you are habituating the animal off it's natural food sources which raises other animal's population rates as well as causing them to become aggressive towards humans from expecting their food?
Did you know that we have been slowly affected by light and noise pollution near urban developments similar to some wildlife being affected? (Try to concentrate on the sounds around you right now like the refrigerator humming and you'll know what I'm talking about).
The more we take over, the farther we keep pushing these animals right out of their homes. They have no choice but to either adapt or leave. Corridors for wildlife are becoming non existent and coyotes frequently come up to beg for food. What makes the earth beautiful is it's land, oceans and the wild creatures that live beside us. We have all but destroyed most and those that are left are falling off the map everyday.
The earth will always be here but in the end it will come down to humans being able to surpass our own destruction. It starts with education in how to co-exist not only with our planet but the land and it's beings as well. We are not superior to non-humans. In fact, I feel strongly that most are here to teach us more about ourselves. They are the intelligent ones and have lasted far longer in some cases than us homo-sapiens who are still developing.
I fear that unless we have a greater & kinder appreciation for what is left out there, there will be nothing left for our children and there children. If you haven't already, join a cause that incorporates these important topics. Teach your children about the earth and all it's inhabitants and not to try to control it.
If we are to make a change, that change starts individually and spreads- YOU CAN MAKE A DIFFERENCE.

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A Buck, A Chevy And The Open Road...

Posted by jennifer on February 16, 2010.

After spending days on the road, I have traveled now back and forth over the Southwest landscape like a ball on a ping pong board centered in the mountains above Boulder, Colorado. I have broken down twice, drove hundreds of miles on a check engine light with little heat or air but nothing prepared me for my ride into a remote portion of Utah recently from Arizona.
I left the horse ranch from which I was awaiting three mares to give birth and observe the territorial actions of the rescued ranch dogs against their opposing rivals- the coyotes. These little creatures held lighter coats than the coyotes of the Rockies who seemed much heartier in their appearance.
Recently, a small stream had flooded into a somewhat raging river which took out a round pen on the property and left remarkable erosion similar to a mini- version of a Grand Canyon like drop-off.
Upon my disappointment, a foal was only born two days after my departure and I needed to get back to Boulder to resume my research living with the wolves.
I set out that day expecting good weather, traveling North up through Flagstaff and Tuba City and onward into the remote regions of Utah which in these parts are a lot Indian reservations and nearby Fundementailist Mormon strong holds. It was about 5:30 pm as the sun set across the desert and the few cars that past by had now turned on their headlights.
I saw a large pick-up truck approaching from the north, flashing his lights on and off heavily. I slowed down looking for signs of a police car and out from the corner of my eye, I saw a large buck heading straight for the open road.
It all happened so calmly as if a slow motion picture was unraveling. I looked at him, he looked at me and we both started to try and read each other within a few split seconds. He was in between decissions as if to say "am I going to run all the way across or hesitate and wait for another car on this side to hit me?" I saw his hesitation but he then committed forward trotting quickly. At this point my car had slowed to about 30 MPH from 75. As he moved across, I swirved to the left so as not to hit him but it was too late. Both dogs crates slid forward, luggage ended up in the passanger seat and my right front headlamp hit the hind quarter of this poor creature. I pulled over immediatly looking for him but he was gone. "Was he dead? No- the impact wasn't hard enough." I told myself. I imagine in a worse case scenario he could have broken his hip but I imagine from the damage to my car, he is badly bruised but will hopfully survive.
Here it was on this day that the very thing I am fighting against- the over expansion of roads and highways, more cars, urban sprawl and modernization that I hit a deer.
Each and every year, thousands of dollars are spent on damages to vehicles from hitting wildlife. Human lives are lost, severe injuries and accidents take place as well as open corridors for animals are slowly diminishing. Top predators such as the mountain lion and wolf find it harder to expand and seek new territory surpassing these human inventions called roads and highways.
It was a reminder to me of the dangers of the open road in areas that I do not drive frequently. Near my home, deer and elk will migrate in the same spots consistently so each of these areas you pay special attention to before approaching. Going 75 MPH, unless the oncoming truck flashed his lights to warn me, both myself and the large buck could have been killed.
I have seen about 3 deer killed on my travels the past four years and it can be a slow and painful death.
Remember to pay close attention to signs and stay alert always. A tired driver could be a deadly one. Stay safe and watch out for wildlife when driving through the corridors of mother nature.

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Simply Experience.

Posted by jennifer on February 14, 2010.

When you look on-line for a qualified horse or dog trainer, you'll find words coinciding with people's names like "whisperer", "communicator" or even "healer". I have been called many names, some of which have included "dog trainer to the stars", "K-9 Rockstar", "Wolf Woman", etc. In simple terms, I do not believe myself to be a magician or any different than anyone else on earth. I feel as though experience and a need in my childhood for nurturing brought me to understand and be passionate about animals.
The truth is, despite what you see on TV, it sometimes takes a lot of time to call a case "recovered". It may look easy but in reality, many, many steps are taken to resolve issues. Nothing is solved over night as up-keep from owners and other factors are always an issue.
Patience is what I like to call a strength of survival in the wild. It's hard for many people to be patient yet patience is one of the best assets a human can obtain. Whether in business or in life, this one tool can keep you staying in the moment and allowing a process to unfold.
A coyote by example, doesn't rush in to eat when wolves are present. He may sit for hours but he will eventually get some food. Birds are great at this as well.
Remember that patience with animals is necessary to always continue moving forward. If you lack this skill, your pet may very well shut down or even win.
Think simply, act naturally, be a calm presence- always asserting guidance along the way.
Experience will lead you in the right direction. It's not magic, not rocket science it's just an understanding of simply reading an animal & understanding it's intentions.

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Denver- ABC 7 News: "Grand Junction Man Indicted In Dog Dragging Death Suspect's Sister Also Indicted For Covering It Up"

Posted by jennifer on January 27, 2010.

To read the full story, follow the link below... This is in regard to the German Shepherd named Buddy who was dragged behind a car on purpose recently in Grand Junction, CO.

http://www.thedenverchannel.com/news/22346556/detail.html

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Brother, Sister Wolf- I Ask You What You Can Teach Me...

Posted by jennifer on January 17, 2010.

There is greatness in the values of compassion, kindness, loyalty and understanding. I ask myself. "What have the wolves taught me about this?"
Their answer came in the snow when I was hiking along and saw their footprints gathered together in common areas and travel paths.
They have taught me about family- related and sometimes non-related. It is in their happiness to re-unite or celebrate after a successful hunt. Sometimes it is through play or an otherwise fun ritual of babysitting a tired mother's pup's. I have learned the importance of eating meals together and bonding while moving. Their understanding of family order is by far, one of the most important and key elements to their livelihood and survival.
Beyond this though is the friendship and deep bonds they hold to one another. I believe they are individuals like us- working through whatever issues and hurdles they may have to face in order to learn and grow to a deeper level of understanding. Values however are innate to most and with that being said, it is interesting how they stick to the relatively simple, yet intuitive elements that have kept this species going much longer than we have been here.
For wolves and other animals in the wild, they are living life on an incredible scale. It is do or die, life or death. No one hands them a pay check for their hard work but rather their reward is in sleeping on a full stomach. Their reality is so very real- every second of every day counts and they live a life they love. It makes me wonder though if all our modern achievements as humans have really made us happy. In my view, it has only caused harm. For example: Is it worth to dig for oil when the amount you may or may not find is not near the amount in emissions it takes to look for that oil? Is it to the earth's benefit to create more things when you are harming more things in order to create them?
If we are a society built on escapism, what was life like when we couldn't escape? Our people must have been strong- not just physically but mentally.
With every word I type, there is this non-reality to the expressions of my words. I remember a time when video games were nonexistent and tree houses and riding bikes were.
As I discussed with a friend tonight this detachment from reality, I thought it would be nice to get people motivated to simply get off line for a change and actually meet a friend for coffee to hear their latest status update on Facebook. It's just a thought but maybe a thought that could implement some common ways of communicating in person versus on-line. If a wolf was shown a computer, they may try to chew on it. Be a wolf for a day and try life off-line. Maybe you just might read a book that has been sitting on your shelf for months staring at you or you may go for a hike and get a great idea or talk to a neighbor. Who knows? Hmm... maybe I should start a national get off your computer day. Not only would it be good for the environment but also good for us too!

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Rhythm

Posted by jennifer on January 13, 2010.

In order to be come joined up or linked in with a connection to animals, think of your favorite drum beat. When I used to compete in tracking competitions, I learned that while laying my track, if I stomped my footprints into a rhythm, the dog would follow the track better.
If you can walk you have rhythm- anything that moves has this concept. Think of skiing for example. Once you get going on some runs- you get a feeling of being in synch to something greater. This is a energy connection and it happens with animals too. If you have done any sport- running, horseback riding, tennis, surfing- you can get into a certain flow. Now, imagine that same feeling and beat running with your dog across a field- after a while you both join to a rhythm... a central beat like one heart.
This is what I have seen in nature. When I watch deer run, I can feel that. Take it back to when we were hunters... Running along side buffalo on a horse under your feet. You have so many heart beats in one continuous pace. Your heart rate elevates at being in this wave of continuos energy as does your horse's and the buffalo.
Rhythm is the essence to being wild. Wild wolves, horses, elk, etc. use their feet in a beat. I encourage you to discover this with your own dog. Feel what it's like to go off the beaten path where people don't frequent. If you are in a city, try alley ways. Put on your ipod and synch into some upbeat music with a paced rhythm. You can walk or run but go for a while. As your dog starts to tire a little, you will reach a point where you both are linked in. Like horse and rider, this is an equal relationship. Pretend you and your dog are living on the plains and searching for food. You are now teammates- equal partners. You can achieve this equal plane competing in dog sports too as well as watch it on TV when handlers move a dog around a show ring. Watch how they move & watch the dog handlers movements. The good ones can feel this common bond and connection to a greater energy flow. True horse whispers are also very knowledgeable at this concept though they might not be aware they are doing it.
I have learned this living with the wolves and from growing up as a competitive horseback rider. I have run through the aspen groves after rabbits with the wolves- sifting back and forth through the trees. They were faster than me but we both were on the hunt. I see the same thing up in Yellowstone when the wolves move the herds... Testing and prodding to find the weakest link, their tails are raised in heartbeat and anticipation- they are bonded on the highest level- one heart beat, one rhythm... Hunting to a drum only they and the elk can hear.
The highest form of bonding you can do with your dog is on the walk or on the run. Movement together resembles that primal urge going back to our ancestors who hunted with the wolves. Even the tiniest chihuahua still has these natural urges.This is why I am such a huge opponent to not using treadmills. It is an "easy out" for modern society to not take their animal for a walk.
If you are disabled, etc. their are certainly instances for it but I just think it's one more way man is separating himself from nature. There are no shortcuts in the wild but rather, basic laws and principals that everyone lives by. If you are out of shape, your chances of getting eaten are even higher. I have only known this from being on the food chain myself.
I can't expect a wolf to respect me unless I am physically capable of showing strength and attitude. They have to know if they challenge me over a piece of food, I could very well win. I eat my food in front of them and guard it till the ends of the earth.
All of these concepts were taught to us by the Native American culture however it may be only until now that we are capable of hearing them....

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Hello From the Woods...

Posted by jennifer on January 12, 2010.

Hi Everyone-
Well, I certainly have been on quite the journey lately trying to re-a-quaint myself again with society after spending so much time alone in solitude with nature, wolves, dogs, horses, birds, lynx- you name it.
These last four years have not only taught me a great deal professionally but personally as well. I have truly learned more from wolves about humankind than I think from humans themselves.
It has been quite the journey thus far that has taken me to places I never thought I would go. My understanding of creatures other than our own has shown me since I was a child that they know more than us in simpler terms. If you can slow your brain down and think with your instincts, you can be more effective with your pet than ever before.
Since modern society has had us "creating" and inventing all this useful stuff with our brains, we have forgotten how to think with our more primal, natural senses. It is about coming forth on equal terms- joining with animals that will allow the greatest respect and understanding between both parties. Animals get this concept btw.... When I meet a horse for example, I am not there to dominate or submit to them- I am only there in friendship to listen to them. Whether it be the most aggressive wolf to the most tame poodle or a friendly street cat- it works the same way. You can never go in assuming anything until you have established a relationship and then AND ONLY THEN true communication can begin.
It saddens me that so many humans are out of touch with these instincts and fail to learn from animals as much as we teach them. Much of society in my experience with nature & various creatures comes from a sense of superiority, entitlement, selfishness or acts of convenience.
When you can feel an animal, they might not always want what you think they want because it's more about you then them. I hate to say it but I see many pets like this and their voices expressing this to me are only getting louder. The owner showers them with affection when rather- they may prefer to be left alone yet the owner fails to acknowledge this because it comes from their own needs not getting met by other humans. There are dogs that do better walking in front of you and dogs that do better walking in back or on the side. The truth is- there is no "one way" but all ways except to injure those involved. You must look at every creature as an individual and different creatures hold different body language but they all hold some things in common: energy, thoughts, souls, intentions & feelings.
I have learned since I was young to be quiet and feel out these situations that may other wise be dangerous. I walk a soft but firm path, set boundaries and help guide animals to a different place of understanding. Perhaps the human is getting in the way of this growth by just the mere lack of improper tools when something else would be better suited. This skill is truly the most crucial- to think with your feelings, your intuition, gut, minds-eye, whatever you want to call it- we all have it inside us to draw upon. Many times pets can get stuck and just need some help communicating so I try to bridge that gap.
I look as these teachers as my equals and they show me things that I need to learn in order to grow as a human being. I feel fortunate that I have sought animals as my friends my whole life but it has come at great cost as I have been more like a lone wolf in life and to help people was like learning a whole new skill set.
With all this said, I really want to communicate to those that are listening that we are in a
great time of change in our world. If parents can teach their children to have a better appreciation for the earth and all it's inhabitants, we will be able to make great changes in the future of humanity. We must lead by example and protect the landscape due to over population and habitat loss for all animals around the globe. Climate change is causing tremendous stress on species fighting for their very survival such as the polar bear and other top predators. I wish there would be some sort of education about these topics in our school system but there isn't. Every day I witness animals suffering great losses to their habitat and fear of these animals causes humans to want to eliminate them. We need to learn how to co-exist peacefully again with Mother Nature. Los Angeles for example has one of the oldest and healthiest populations of coyotes co-existing with humans yet some folks will still call wildlife services or animal control if they merely see a coyote in their neighborhood. As more people try to claim nature as their own (I don't care how much money you make, who you are or all the reasons you can say you own your land...) the land my friends was never ours to begin with and will far surpass your family ownership or claim upon it once you move on from this world. You must know that you are creating homes upon homes that have already existed before you got there. Animals have a far more advanced understanding in this system than us because we expand and spread like a slow burning fire- crushing and killing living things in our wake with bull dozers and pipe lines. Take only what you need and leave the rest... The truest path in life is a simple one.
Goodnight from living with the wolves,
Jennifer

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HELP BUDDY!!!

Posted by jennifer on January 6, 2010.

Re-posting from Facebook:

"On December 30, 2009 between 2:18 am and 4:30 am a German Shepherd named Buddy was dragged to death at the Colorado National Monument. Joan Anzelmo, superintendent of the monument, identified the suspect as Steven Clay Romero, 37, of Grand Junction.

She said Romero is alleged to have stolen the dog -- Buddy, a German shepherd-blue heeler mix -- from people in Delta. He allegedly took the dog to the Colorado National Monument early Wednesday, tied the dog to his truck and dragged the dog. Paw prints in the snow were found to show Buddy at first walking, then running, then dragging, for 3 miles. A surveillance video showed a truck entering the monument at 2:18 am with a dog in the bed of the truck, it showed the same truck leaving at 2:30 with no dog. Witnesses said Romero said he was going to kill the dog, another said he saw Romero leave the residence with the dog.
Romero faces one count of aggravated cruelty towards animals. If convicted, the penalty is a maximum of three years in federal prison and a fine of $100,000, and one year of mandatory parole.

Anzelmo said she believes additional charges may be filed against Romero.

The goal of this group and petition is to see to it that Steven Romero spends every single minute of those three years in jail and a fine of $100,000 plus the one year of mandatory parole.

Should there be any sympathy towards Mr Romero, let me add one thing. According to the Grand Junction Daily Sentinel on Dec 31st, Romero was quoted as saying:
"I don't get it," he said, sitting alone at the defendant's table. Assistant U.S. Attorney Michelle Heldmyer then rose from her seat, walked toward Romero and tossed a copy of the charges on the table in front of him.

Heldmyer told U.S. Magistrate Judge Laird Milburn she will ask for Romero's continued detention during Monday's hearing.

"So, in other words I'll be sitting in jail and probably lose my job, too?" Romero asked Milburn.

"Yes," the judge responded."

Sign the petition sites below- please!!! The petition goal has been increased to 25,000 to present at the Thurs, Jan 7th arraignment, remember - power in numbers! Sign & Share - Thank You!

http://www.thepetitionsite.com/6/demand-justice-for-buddys-killer
http://www.thepetitionsite.com/6/demand-justice-for-buddys

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Biologic Rhythms of the Earth and the Human Spirit

Posted by jennifer on November 15, 2009.

In biology, it is the way of evolution to think that everything comes from something else. However, most fail to recognize the evolution of our planet as a species itself- ever shifting, ever evolving and we, as humans are a part of that process. For example, let's try to think in terms of the big bang theory. When this occurred, so did life itself and yet, we fail to realize that ALL life is still growing out of the "bang". With that said, if humans are animals- we are slowing our maturity by staying stuck as a species. We need nature to continue to evolve as a biological and spiritual entity. How many adults have you met that act like they're still in college? How many adults have you met that have an emotional capacity of a teenager? Many humans are looking for outside influences to solve this unsociable hunger that can only be accomplished from within. Once one learns to take care of the inner self, comfort can be accessed in any situation. There is no outside influence that can sooth this craving but rather, by you.
As teen crime rises, 7 & 8 year olds are getting addicted to drugs, I wonder when we are to be a child and when to be an adult. Ironically, if parenting isn't given appropriately, the cycle is repeated to the point that you have cause and effect- slow maturity due to lack of good parenting to children and living longer caused by evolution. Some psychologists and biologists wonder if we are on the verge of a split in our own species. where, the mindful rise to create the destination of the earth and those that are staying stuck without ever evolving remain a separate human entity. With this said, we all have the power to create our destinations and are at a crucial time in determining our somewhat ignored relationship to nature and the earth. Slowly, we are becoming aware of our environment however, there is still a detachment. Yes, you can drive a Prius and change your light bulb but when was the last time you paid attention to the fresh, clean, wind on your skin? You can bring a special bag to the grocery store to save a tree but when was the last time you were surrounded by trees and saw their colors change with the season? How can one know the makes and models of cars on their street but not know the first thing about the different kinds of trees that line the street? The trees have been there a lot longer than those cars have. They have seen many different makes and models park up and down the drive, seen people move in and out but how can someone know the name of a car and not a tree when the tree will live to see generations after their passing?
The one thing that is concerning is to think we are superior as a species. The majority of us live in a bubble. Human beings have a tendency to fail to consider regularly that we are part of a vast, ever evolving universe that is probably a spec of sand in a realm of infinite possibilities. We are so very primitive yet on the verge of a big shift. However, it is up to us to make sure this shift occurs in a positive direction.
Nature is the one guide that has not failed me in my own personal growth and development. She has taught me more than any school, more than any book and more than any person has. I take comfort in even her most terrifying storms, fiercest predator and know that in that moment, I am on the brink of learning something that brings my primitive, wild and spiritual states together as one.
To be quiet is to be open to her teachings. By being still and observing, you feel part of something greater- you are part of the changing earth and have a role just as any bug, plant or bear does.
Each of us have all experienced both bad and good. It is important to come to terms with each however not to try and take either away, only ad to it something greater. For example, if a person lacks self confidence, teach them re-assurance.
I am amazed as I write this that my thoughts become so clear at home, alone in the mountains. I feel sometimes clouded and out of sync in the rat race. Here- all is equal, all is balanced. There is a healthy number of humans in this ecosystem.

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Knowledge of Nature

Posted by jennifer on November 15, 2009.

As a primitive species I feel we have such an urge to move fast and forward with technology and yet at the same time, forget about the most basic principals to respecting our animals and our earth. It is my belief that the very elements we wish to move beyond, we forget about what got us there. I think we become so wrapped up in our own paths that we forget to stop and smell the roses. Here in lies the path of discovery and teachings of nature...
In order to find oneself, I have taken to the woods to quiet my thoughts, tune in to animals and tune out the sounds of a busy planet constantly on the move. I have taken more to books than television and my only resource at times is my internet to connect with the outside world. I spend everyday hiking alone in the Rockies with my dogs, watching, listening and learning. How we work with nature, can be an unbelievable tool to creating a life of everlasting peace and harmony within oneself and the planet upon which we reside.
The insightfulness of observation, the power of inter-species communication and the teachings of basic morality can form a new relationship- a relationship beyond stress, beyond anxiety, pain, anger, fear and resentment.

These topics are some of the most crucial elements coming into light in the future of our society and some are already here:

- Over population
- Endangered Species
- Lack of habitat
- Climate increase/ Global warming
- Lack of individual responsibility
- Running out of resources

Man has to obtain a greater connection to our past as well as our future. Questions like: How did we get here? and Where are we going? are some of the most thought provoking, unanswered questions that can be obtained through observing all life- not just our own. To better understand this, we must understand how the basic principals of our planet and how the system works. For some, this cause and effect principal is often over looked. Occasionally, remaining "detached" is a way of comfortable and easy life. Everyone however, should feel at peace alone with themselves and no other distractions- truly being "in the moment" on the earth. It is very hard for particular individuals to be comfortable alone with their thoughts. I believe this happens more frequently, the more our technology advances and we become less focussed on our basic elements such as plants, animals, minerals, our ecosystems as well as ourselves. The chatter of TV's, radios, etc. can be an escape from reality. Over population is clearly one of the biggest concerns at this time and threatens all our resources as well as the planet as a whole. Can you imagine a world where water is like oil?
So, what can we do to evolve as a society in a more positive direction? One is to live by example, without the need for materialism, power or self gain. Seek wisdom above all things. I have lived two separate lives. One of being very wealthy and the other being very poor. The later is by far, the most freeing. We need stewardship in environmental concerns and other issues and teach people that it's not just about recycling your plastic bottle- it's much more about how ALL life is connected. The average person does not realize that the fish they eat is due to the wolves that make the elk run, so trees can grow, to provide shade for the stream and cool the temperature for the water in which is suitable conditions for the fish to live. (Trophic Cascade) This is just one example of cause and effect spreading throughout our lives and universe all the way down the line on a daily basis.
I have found that the most important asset to being human is our mind. The power of thought is operating on a different level. Your thoughts are directly connected to results in which you have the power to change. An example of this would be using self-hypnosis, sports psychology and meditation before dealing with an aggressive dog. This mindset is crucial for the animal as well as the person to have positive results obtained.
Body language is universal. Thoughts you place on things are universal. All plants and animals can respond to these universal languages. An example of this was the Japanese scientist who did an experiment labeling bottled water with words and the water changed to different colors dependent upon the word or "thought" projected onto the bottle.
All people have in them a connection to the basic principals of nature though this sometimes has to be "woken up". Everyone has the opportunity to grow spiritually within themselves and we all need to live more truthful, level of existence to obtain responsibility for the world in which we share.
This, I have learned through my surroundings. I have found an equal respect among life in the woods that has taught me great lessons far beyond cell. phones and debit cards. I hope to educate and share with the world a new knowledge of nature.

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Cougar's Fresh Kill Is Wolves Delight

Posted by jennifer on October 4, 2009.

I am sitting at my laptop in front of the wolves enclosure listening to the blues- public radio. I packed my backpack this morning with water, a copy of Walden, two camera lenses and left for the forest. I had Max, Henry, Elvis & Lola and Clide stayed behind because he's getting too old for long journeys. The idea was simple: a three hour hike in the National Forest and an attempt to get to the top of this mountain of which I have gotten many times close to finishing. We were in the thick of it- climbing over rocks and boulders, the wolves playing and I documenting. My legs got some scrapes and I recalled the time when as a child, I got lost in the woods probably not more than 5 years old. I was often curious and searched to far for arrowheads.
The wolves and dogs negotiated fallen trees and big brush like a piece of cake- their feet moved with such precision and their demeanor a happy one.
I came across a 45 Automatic pistol cartridge along with 4 flicker feathers, a rock that I'll sand down and a small hoof from a young deer.
Out on our adventure, we came across a cougar kill. It's fresh leg bones lay scattered about. Max dug up the remaining insides- a chance that the mountain lion was on it's way back for a snack later.
I know these kill sites and knew it was not safe to hang around but in the process as the wolves gorged on skin and bones, I took these pictures. I hope you'll find them as fascinating as I do. In the meantime, after a long journey, everyone is napping as I type.
The wolves & dog's happiness in success in finding a kill site is baffling- The dogs are far less interested in it as the wolves are though they don't mind snacking on a bone. The language & respect to eating is universal. They are at peace while the other one indulges. I am amazed sometimes at the commonalities and just as amazed at such drastic differences.

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"Two roads diverged in a wood, and I... I TOOK THE ONE LESS TRAVELED BY, And that has made all the difference." - Robert Frost

Posted by jennifer on September 30, 2009.

Hello Out There~
I have been on the road now for over two weeks traveling everywhere from Los Angeles to Phoenix to the Wet Mountains and Mission: Wolf in Colorado. I am home temporarily as I leave soon to live with the wolves again for a week. Next I'm off to the Gila National Forest to dive into the Mexican Wolf controversy and from there I will hit the Defender's of Wildlife Carnivore Conference. Home seems to be where my suitcase is and going from all different climates, I take a variety of gear including two different sleeping bags, one tent, extra blankets, flip flops and my snow shoes. Then again, I could be hiking in rattlesnake country on the outskirts of Scottsdale. My theory is, I never know just quite where I'll be until I get there.
Included in this blog are photos from today in the mountains near Westcliffe, Colorado. I hope you enjoy them.
Soon, there will be some interesting information here on my website for those thinking about purchasing a wolf or wolf dog. I hope you'll come back to view it as it contains fascinating data regarding behavior, financial responsibility, fencing, etc. After reading it, those thinking about getting a cute, cuddly, wolf puppy may want to reconsider as the implications can sometimes far outweigh the rewards. I am not an advocate of owning these animals as pets but if you are considering adopting an unwanted wolf dog (best case scenario), this is something you should definitely read. My thanks go out to Mission: Wolf for allowing me to put it on the website and also Annie White for re-editing and doing such a fantastic job putting it together.
In the mean time, I finally get to sleep in my own bed. It's such a reward for a long journey in one big loop to L.A., Phoenix, New Mexico and up into Colorado. Home sweet home! "Life is about the journey... Not the destination.."
Best,
JMc

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Is The Lemon Worth The Squeeze? March '09

Posted by jennifer on September 9, 2009.

Man can create some of the most beautiful things yet we destroy what we do not appreciate. We seem to have lost our connection with the earth...

Someone once asked me "Is the lemon worth the sqeeeze?" I of course repled yes. When I think of all the places I've been, people and animals I've met and roads that lead back and forth over the west, I realize that I've led a life most people my age would be lucky if they lived half of it. I pay attention to things like watching wildlife and being the ultimate observer. My TV is reality. Tonight I sleep in my car but getting here I crossed through a horrible blizzard over the summit, saw two highschool kids having fun in their muddy, lifted pickup in Utah, ate dinner with a bunch of highschool kids that were in ballroom dance competitons and met a young police officer who was nice enough to give me a ticket. I love the saying that life is about the journey and not the destination.
I feel so blessed. I work hard and I sometimes do better on my own. I can travel anywhere, do any thing by myself. There's a certain sense of freedom in that. My dogs and cat are my heart. I love them more than words can say, I am so lucky to have unbelievable friends who have given me the shirt off their back and then some many a time. My parents have taught me so much but they have both earned my highest respect as human beings.
So as I sit here being locked out of my house, after driving 12 hrs, crossing four states and driving through a big blizzard, sleeping on a couch instead of a hotel room in Vegas, doing an interview, training lots of dogs, sitting here in 20 degree weather waiting for a locksmith to arrive, yes- even after all that, life itself is one beautiful journey.
Looking forward to learning more on the next big adventure...
JMc

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Winter Camping Tips:

Posted by jennifer on September 9, 2009.

Winter Camping tips:

1) Don't leave your boots outside your tent. They will freeze and mice will sleep in them.

2) Speaking of mice, check your boots before you put your feet in them.

3) Don't pitch a tent near a river, stream, etc. The moisture will condense on the inside of your tent and cause ice to form.

4) Layer the bottom of the tent with many blankets. The farther you are from the ground, the warmer you will stay.

5) Eat spicy food to keep you warm and fill a cantene or water bottle with hot water to put in your sleeping bag when you for get in. Hot rocks off a campfire will do the same thing.

6) Store your food, lotions, creams, etc. Away from your tent in a proper bear proof container or slung over a tree far from the ground at the middle portion of a limb. Being bear safe even in winter is a smart choice as some bears will still be roaming around.

7) Pets attract animals, food & your behavior. Behave properly in the wild and you will avoid dangerous animal encounters. Carry bear spray and a blow horn if you are in grizzly country.

8) If you get snowed into your tent, start banging the snow away before opening any zippers. Pitching tents under trees will help with snowfall accumulation.

9) Mice love warmth! Don't store food in your car or you'll have company riding shotgun with you on the way home.

10) Take care of your dog by providing warm bedding, fresh (not frozen) water, food, sleeping accompdation inside your tent and booties and warm outerlayers if needed.

11) Bring snowshoes in your car, extra food and blankets and always bring two back up sleeping bags.

12) Sleep in layers, with a hat and winter socks on.

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This Has Been A Very Long Journey...

Posted by jennifer on September 6, 2009.

This has been a very long journey for me that seems to have been a life long process over the years. I'm somehow unsure how I've gotten here besides just putting one foot in front of the other but this journey has led me every where from training Coon Hounds in Florida to working side by side sharp shooters in L.A., to hiking off leash with wolves and dogs in the back country of Colorado. If only I knew as a young girl obsessed with animals and horse back riding, teaching my dogs tricks in the kitchen and learning from my Mom how to take care and train all of our dogs, well..., I never thought I would be here.
I would say that the circle of life- how to pull this all together across many fields is what interests me the most. I believe we are all animals and I believe there is much to learn from animals beyond our comprehention. They are invaluable teachers. I don't beleieve we are greater nor less but as equals. We are coming into a time to bring us back to basics- the wind, the sun, the earth are the very resources we need to partner with to sustain our existance for a brighter future. As basic as it sounds, Native Americans had this whole thing figured out long before we did. The difference is we never stopped to listen. With that said, animals- play an imporatnt role in sustainable living, teaching and growing our relationship with them is an important one in the future of a new planet. We have to be careful to sustain balance. Humans love to tip the scales.
Now that I think about it, the most peaceful place on earth to me is in with the predator. I feel truly connected to something greater- almost as if my alignment goes out of whack the more humans I'm around, the more I become centered- the more wolves I'm around. A true sense of peace. The same with scuba diving- I'm always the last one up because I hardly waste any air- just purely relaxed underwater around sharks or when a Rottweiler has my arm in it's mouth & viciously shaking, I relax my arm and he let's go. If that makes me weird- so be it. I have always felt different around animals.
And then there are the dogs. I am still a dog trainer but enjoy educating people on my latest research as it pertains to their given situation is the essence to my philosophy- thinking "outside the box" and being creative.
I would love to do more nature therapy for dogs and their owners. I recently had a situation in L.A. with a woman who had no respect for me as a person- forget about what I do. She had two assistants, a housekeeper, etc. and was hiding behind this mask or wall in which she created for herself that I could see right through. I thought to myself, if I could put this woman in generic clothes, no makeup, no brand names to hide behind- just a backpack made of tarp and a seatbelt, gave her a leash with her dog and sat her down after a long hike to talk, she would have let that mask begin to come down and I would have seen a real human being.
Everyone is affected by their childhhood just as animals affected for life by theirs. There are good mothers and bad mothers across all lines- life is funny that way. It does not hold preference to species. The thing that most people fall into is the trap of, is time. Animals have all the time in the world. If you take away time, take someone into the woods and break them down to build them back up- having to survive to care for the basic needs if themselves and their dog, you have a human being not associated by job, rank, money or fame. To learn to be a good parent, I truly believe one has to have the experience of caring for an animal. If you can protect your dog, surely you can protect your child. The power of nature is beyond comprehention and most that get to experience it on a deep level, will never forget it. Get outside!

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A Few More Pics....

Posted by jennifer on September 6, 2009.

Last Trip For Macho At The Grand Canyon:

Snow Shoeing In The Mountains:

Snow Shoeing With Elvis & Lola:

Elvis Tired After A Storm:

My Tent: Yellowstone

My Tent At Mission: Wolf-

Hiking With The Dogs In Winter:

Colorado Blizzard In The Mountains:

Backpacking The Sand Dunes With Sandrine (Friend Dog Trainer From Paris):

California:

Back Country Yellowstone:

Sleeping Under The Stars:

Searching For Tracks:

Dog Sledding: Telluride

Backpacking Sand Dunes With Elvis & Lola:

Snow Angel:

Hiking With Elvis: Colorado

Wolf Research:

Feeding The Dogs:

Back Packing: Colorado

Captive Wolf Research:

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Posted by jennifer on September 2, 2009.

Venice, California:

Se: San Diego-

Johnny Cash: Newest Addition To the Pack-

Juno: Phoenix, Arizona-

Co-Pilot:

Juno: Tired From Road Trip...

Juno At Home In Phoenix:

Sleeping On the Floor In Vegas-

Lola & Elvis In the Woods-

Lola & Elvis In L.A.-

Living With the Wolves: Lola & Max Hunting

Lola & Elvis In The Pond:

Lola Hunting For Mice:

Lola In The Snow:

Snow Face-

Traveling To Save Wolves-

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Back To the Missing Deer...

Posted by jennifer on September 2, 2009.

Upon return, the cat may have moved it to a safer location but then everything else came in from coyotes to Magpies, foxes and ravens. Maybe even a bear had a go at it. Both Henry and Max played tug of war over a deer leg while Lola and Clide chewed on some vetibrae bones. Elvis always on the go, had better things to do. It fascinates me how so many things are similar between wolves and dogs yet some things are drastically different.
We hiked into the forest as I looked over the tree trunks for scratches or signs of fur but nothing. Once again, my eyes scanned the high rocks, trees and talll grass for signs of motion. I pay more attention to my animals for anything out of the ordinary more than I do signs of motion. The wolves tune into prey much quicker than the dogs do. Once the dogs realize the wolves hear something, then they tune into it. This alone has been fascinating.
My cats at home are also great alerters to any thing unusual which brings up an interesting point... Domestic cats are far more closer to their wild cousins in behavior than domestic dogs to wolves. The reason is simply that they haven't been domesticated that long and can thrive on there own being feral after being pets. Dogs can't do this. Dogs are so much more dependent on us. They look to us for not only food but decission making, advice, etc. That's of course if they are a well behaved dog. A dog with dominance or aggression issues will usually take these matters into his own hands which is not good.
Human behavior is as important to look at as any other animal's behavior as we influence them. From the roads we build to the stress in our own lives, animals are affected by us.
It's also important to work with animals from a level to which they operate and are sensitive to- that being intuition or feeling. Never making a decission or judgement until you meet the dog, cat, horse or wolf. I've had to learn this the hard way. No matter how many books I read or videos I watch, it goes out the window on an initial encounter on how I'm going to solve a situation.
Why is it important to teach people about nature? Because people are spreading at a rate so fast outside of cities and beyond that we will be faced with the co-existance questions more and more down the road.

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Pictures, Pictures, Pictures...

Posted by jennifer on September 1, 2009.

In My Tent: Yellowstone

Jeep In the Snow: Colorado

Jeep On the Road- Mission: Wolf

Splash Magazine Photo Shoot: Los Angeles-

Splash Magazine: Los Angeles-

Workin' Like A Dawg-

Mission: Wolf- Fall 2008

McKinley Wolf Transport: 2008

Hangin' Out In the Tipi:

McKinley- Mission: Wolf

McKinley-

Two Story Tipi- Mission: Wolf

Camping With the Dogs: Colorado

Searching For Mountain Lions: Colorado

San Diego-

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"Wolves Do Not Look At You, They Look Through You." - Doug Smith

Posted by jennifer on September 1, 2009.

Living With the Wolves: June 11th, 2009

Today I ventured out for a hike when the sun broke through the dark clouds above. We've had so much rain & snow this spring, their seems to be a ton of water rushing down the rivers, creeks and streams and the grass is growing higher than I've ever seen it. The land is lush, speckled with purple, white and yellow wild flowers. Such a beautiful property here but as I hiked, my eyes scaled the trees, ridges and boulders and I watched for any sign of motion behind bushes in the forest. Although beauty reins, the lion is on the prowl amongst me- probably watching my every move. This feline may be back for lunch upon the kill site and I was headed there alone without refuge from the force of of my canines and wolves which would potentially disturb evidence. I walked and turned often, making sure this predator didn't strike from behind breaking my neck as they so well do. Any kill is potentially dangerous. From cats, to bears, wolves & coyotes- when you put food in the picture, it brings things to a whole different level. Before I got here, the owner of the property had forwarned that the deer lay near the barn. Knowing mountain lions full well- they will return to the kill after a few days to feast or even move the carcass. I searched and I searched- no deer. "That's it." I told myself. "I'm going to get the dogs and wolves." Within a few seconds, the animals took me right to a spot over near a large wood pile. Sure enough, something was killed there. Where did it go? The wolves concentrated on the scent at the scene of the crime. Eventually, Max lost interest and decided instead to catch a near by mouse which he played with, hung out his mouth while it squeeled and swallowed in one gulp as Elvis chased him around for it. If the cat moved the deer, the likely place it would be would be the forest in the center of the property where it could be out of view. However, lions up here use old mine shafts as dens and I've seen 3 shafts thus far in relative proximity. Could it have carried the deer back to it's den? Tomorrow I'll venture where I think the kill may have first occurred. A mountain lion will usually drag the carcass before performing surgery on it. I'm also going to look for any scratch marks on trees there- a signal that this is a male's turf.

In my research into habituation, I picked up the Daily Camera today. There was a story about an Eagle pocher and a bear that wouldn't leave a woman's backyard. I thought it would be a good idea to start keeping track of various animal encounters and try to make headway into the Colorado Division of Wildlife. I will need to take an overview of all animal encounters over the past 20 years with a concentration on coyotes. How has their behavior changed of late and when did this start occuring?

Next I need info. on how many wolves are currently believed to be in Colorado at the moment running wild. How many from Yellowstone vs. How many are thought to possibly being released? Are there any wolves currently in the state? What's happening with the wolf in Steamboat?

Yellowstone used to keep track of every wolf that left the park. Now they no longer do which is a positive sign.

The main question: When will wolves be thriving back in Colorado because we desperatly need them here...

Before I go, a word of advice: Never live your life around a dog. Make them live their life around you.

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More Pictures...

Posted by jennifer on August 31, 2009.

Henry: Boulder-

Henry-

Hiking With the Wolves & Dogs-

Hiking-

On the Road-

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Posted by jennifer on August 31, 2009.

Las Vegas-

Getting Hair Done In L.A.-

Got Snow?

Lola & Elvis In Beverly Hills-

On the Strip...

Elk- Yellowstone

Elmo & Ghandi- Phoenix, Az.

Jumping Out of the Jeep...

Elvis & Mitten-

Elvis & the Wolves-

Elvis & Henry Chasing Max: Living With the Wolves-

Elvis Swimming-

Elvis-

Max Following Elvis-

Elmo & Ghandi- Phoenix

Ghandi-

Grand Teton-

Grizzly: Yellowstone-

Grizzly-

Life On the Road-

Henry & Clide: Boulder

Henry & Elvis: Living With the Wolves

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Posted by jennifer on August 31, 2009.

Cowgirl & Juno- Phoenix

Coyote- Lamar Valley, Yellowstone

Daisy- Mission Wolf, Colorado

Daisy

At Home In Colorado...

Elvis & Lola Searching For Mountain Lion Tracks-

Elvis & Lola Hiking-

In Vegas-

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More Excerpts From My Journal Writing...

Posted by jennifer on August 31, 2009.

What I'm doing with animals acendes many levels. My communication to them is a feeling, sixth sense or psychic connection. I believe this to be true as I feel a lot of things from the core of my being when working with them.
Everything is nothing. Not controlling is freedom when working from an equal plane. Doing things from the feeling creates success. This is how I feel instead of "dominate" or control the situation- it's not written in a book rather a learned mutual conversation whether it be a horse, wolf or dog. - May 22nd, 2009 Hiking Alone In The Woods

Fresh mountian lion kill- deer near barn on property. Second kill within months, same general area. Possible habitual route lion is taking on property. Tomorrow going to kill site to investigate. Fascinating that these kills are taking place so close to the house and this one in broad view. Wondering if lion would have the same response to wolves as the coyote but that us unlikely as it has no fear entering captive wolf territory. Our hikes venture on the property line or outside of it in national forest. Lion kills seem to be more centrally located. Deer seems not as present the same as when my property was occupied by many deer visits until they realized dogs lived there. If lion is consistantly seeing wolves and humans, the potential for attack on an animal other than deer down the road would be likely if this is using as it's hunting grounds.

Going back to the lion that ate 7 dogs and a horse near my home two years ago, eventually killed by a neighbor, Dept. of Wildlife refused to kill such an animal. If a lion is that easily transfering from deer to dogs, cats, a horse, what comes next is a child or a human being. Where do we draw the line in the habituation with wolves and other animals? What constitues killing vs. Protecting? Educating people on how human behavior influences wildlife is key. Hunting may be a nessasary messure to allocate certain predators from uprising too far. Hunting interest has fallen however by 8%? Where do we find co-existance with mother nature is key question. Watching the scales tip could be dangerous: too much love of animals could backfire just as eliminating a predator altogether.

There was another attack by a coyote on a man recently here in Colorado. This is the second attack I've heard about within a matter of 3 months proximity. The way nature is rapidly growing out of allignment without the wolf is evident. However what if the wolf down the road becomes habituated to humans? Can we become friends with this predator and live in harmony is ultimatly a question that will effect the very future of our land. There is the very real possibilty the wolf will loose it's fear of us. - 6/10/09 Living With The Wolves

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Cell. Phone Notes & Quotes...

Posted by jennifer on August 28, 2009.

Running in the rain, sifting back & forth through the Aspen's & Ponderosa Pines, I was one with the beasts of nature.

"In Europe people talk a great deal of the wilds of America but the Americans themselves never think about them; they are insensible to the wonders of inanimate nature and they may be said not to perceive the muighty forests that surround them till they fall beneith the hatchet." - Alexis de Tocqueville

"The most remote location in the lower 48 states is the southeastern part of Yellowstone. There is not another location that will take you more than twenty miles from a road." - Beast In the Garden

"Animals normally flee when exposed to unusual, potentially threatning situations, such as people approaching. However, repeated exposure to such situations, if not followed by negative consequences, may result in an animal that does not flee as readily. Behavioral scientists refer to this warning of response upon repeated exposure to potentially threatning situations as habituation."

- Board of inquiry, 1986 on bear #59 attack in Yellowstone National Park

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Waking up in Colorado

Posted by on March 19, 2009.

To add to the topic of Dana’s Blog Entry on recycling your plastic bottles or ditching them all together, I am posting another little environmental blurb to get us thinking along these lines.

Every spring, the undeniable feeling of revived energy is in us. Looking at the front range - I observe the color change from snowy white, to dusty brown, and then quickly to vibrant green.

The warm days and early sunrise encourage us out into the world again. I think this time of year is an excellent time to remember to cherish our wild earth.

So, with no real clear segway – I’ll get to my point…

This morning I awoke early, I leashed up Bobby and we hiked before the sun was up, before the birds chirped, and before the sound of traffic. We were at the top of the mesa, near the overlook along HWY 36. I hopped up on the split rail fence and just sat quietly while Bobby lay in the tall dewy grass below. Colorado was just waking up, and I was watching it happen. The glorious sunrise, displaying more incredible color, depth, and resolution than any flat screen t.v. is capable of conveying, the chirping, cawing, and calling of wild birds - more precise than any ipod can deliver, and then the traffic began.

It was at that moment, I thought of my Dad, who lives in Suburban Chicago, I thought of him out there, in the race, heading to off to work. I missed him, wished he was sitting next to me and I let my eyes rest and my vision blur. I could still see the square shapes going in an organized pattern moving up and down the steep hill. I heard the steady noise of engines working to get the cars, trucks and buses up over the rise and to the valleys on the other side. Slowly the noise became indistinct. And then I heard the music filling my head. It was the music of Phillip Glass. Then the deep monotone voice chanting, “KOYAANISQATSI” began.

When I was just a child my Dad sat my brothers and I down to watch a “movie”, little did he know what a grand impression is would leave on us. Or did he?

The title is “Koyaanisqatsi” a Hopi word that translates to Life Out of Balance.

This movie is a sort of “An Inconvenient Truth” of the early 1980’s and worth checking out now, as much as it was then.

If interested, google the title, or go to youtube.com and watch the film in its entirety.

So today, I attempt to get you to go out of your way to pick up and recycle a plastic bottle on the side of the road, or pick up a missed pile of dog poop on the trail…

Jena
Boulder, CO

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The Animals That Live Beyond The Barbed Wire Fence....

Posted by jennifer on February 26, 2009.

As I bring the dogs out to go to the bathroom one last time, I shine my flashlight beyond the barbed wire fence to see the mirrored eyes of an animal looking back at me. I shine the light on my dogs to see them in full alert mode, shine back hoping to get a peak and the eyes are gone. The snow falls silently from a clear star-lit sky. I hear crunching of small twigs and branches in the distance. I wonder what it was beyond the barbed wire fence. Perhaps a Lynx curious about my dogs? This is the second time I see the same eyes. Usually I see foxes, deer, lynx, possibly two coyotes that traveled the fence line. There are two male sibling mountain lions that roam behind my house. These eyes were to small and most mountain lions you never see but they usually see you. One of the great adventures of living up here is capturing glimpses of nature. Having a conversation with a creature that lives it's life in a different mind-set. Surviving daily in the realm of the forrest. When an animal's eyes meet yours, the conversation for a brief moment, has you in it.

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Winding Up The Rocky Mountain Top...

Posted by jennifer on August 17, 2008.

Hello My Friends-
I just arrived back from another adventure into a territory that seems ultimatly like a foreign jungle to me- known as Hollywood. I have to tell you, it takes me about three days to adjust coming from the mountains into city life. I could once call those streets my own but not since my feet left the pavement have I been able to look back. Now, two years after my journey into the mountains began, I feel like a wild animal roaming far from it's natural territory. With all that aside, my trip was extremely productive and I have some new clients that have joined the pack. Lots of meetings and then more meetings, filming, an interview, catching up with old friends and saying hello to some new ones. All in all, Los Angeles was once again a success. I'll be back in a couple of weeks for another round of the same thing.
When I come home and hit that road that leads up to my home here in Colorado, all that stress just seems to fly away with the wind. I'm again at peace as I see the familiar face of a deer crossing my path and that fresh clean mountain air is enough to make me want to go out with the dogs for an evening hike. The birds chirp outside my windows, a raccoon makes it's way up the dirt driveway and here I feel myself connected to mother nature and all that she shares to teach me.
To bring this to my clients in Los Angeles who are far from it is such an incredible experience.
Looking forward to meeting with everyone back here in the mountains and hope this finds you and your dogs well!
All my best,
Jennifer

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Summer Snow...

Posted by jennifer on May 30, 2007.

I had to share these because it's just so beautiful here! I think I'm getting better with the camera... ;-)

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Oh Deer...

Posted by jennifer on May 28, 2007.

On our day off, the dogs and I hit the trails and we thought we'd share a few pictures... Yes, this is a deer we came across that even tilted his head when I made a squeaky noise to take this shot- I guess whether working with dogs or deer in front of the camera, the same things work :-)~
Hope you enjoyed your Memorial Day as much as I did...
Best,
JMc

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Life Untamed

Posted by jennifer on April 19, 2007.

Not many people get the opportunity to live so close to nature. I've been very fortunate to get a glimps of life in the wild. As the snow melts away, the grass grows lush green with spring flowers. The trees are blooming, the sun is out and gusts of snow whip off the mountain in breath taking sweeps. At 14,000 feet, you can only imagine that every breath you take is harder with each step. Moose chew on the leaves while you hike past in the backcountry and at night, the yips and howls of the coyotes will wake you out of a deep sleep. This is spring in Colorado and Colorado has taken a piece of my heart...

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Wow

Posted by jennifer on April 2, 2007.

I walked outside tonight, looked up in the sky and couldn't help but notice the full moon which was so bright, it was almost like looking at a distant sun. The greyish- white clouds looked like fast moving cotton that could have left me sea sick. It's an amazing experience to live up in this elevation where nature often leaves me saying "wow"....

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