When you have three working dogs – two border collies and a Boston Terrier – going outside if fraught with excitement and anticipation. In the morning, the dogs gather expectantly and wait at the door to go out to the pasture, Bud just as eager as Red and Fate to get to work.

They stare at me impatiently. I make them sit and stay before opening the door, and waiting a bit, and then I say “go,” and they shoot out the door, scattering chickens and cats, and head for the pasture gate.

I never open the door soon enough for them.