Pup parent love
Sonny has been a wonderful companion to the Washuta couple and their Brittany, Georgie.
Sonny is a 2-year-old rescue from the Dumb Friends League Buddy Center in Castle Rock. While the bold, black markings over his eye could easily mark him as a border collie, the subtle tan markings on the top of his head are that of an Australian cattle dog, also known as a blue heeler. In fact, Sonny is a blend of three breeds: Australia cattle dog, Australian shepherd and border collie.
Suze and Kevin Washuta could not be happier with Sonny and their other dog, a 12-year-old Brittany, Georgie. “They have each delighted us with their unique characters and brought us so much joy and unconditional love,” said Suze. “We love being pup parents,” she added.
Sonny’s unique traits – those of an energetic puppy and those of his three breeds – keep the Washutas active, with his love for long walks and sense of adventure. All intelligent breeds, Australian cattle dogs, Australian shepherds and border collies are herding dogs by instinct. They are loyal with strong attachments to their owners and are driven to work. The Australian Shepherd or “Aussie” is known as a cowboy’s herding dog. They are also known to serve as police narcotics dogs and competitors in obedience trials.
Though the Washutas are not cowboys, they are fortunate to live near a green space where Sonny can explore, chase and herd birds as if he were on a large ranch. Sonny also enjoys running and playing with the neighborhood pups and herding Suze on her sled. “It’s fun to watch him romp in the snow,” she added. The playful and lively traits of the three breeds make the dogs good companions and family dogs. They are very affectionate and their medium size makes them easy to work with.
When Sonny is tired out, he enjoys cuddling with his family on his pile of blankets and pillows.
Suze Washuta enjoys playtime in the snow with Sonny and Georgie.
By Julie Matuszewski; photos courtesy of Suze Washuta
