Double M Stock Dogs

 2009 DOCNA Championship Clean Run Article

 http://www.cleanrun.com/index.cfm?fuseaction=feature.display&feature_id=98

My name is Mary Alice Wisecarver. I’m 13 and live in a small town in Arizona.  We live on a small ranch, and own sheep, milk goats, ducks, chickens, cattle and horses. I own four Aussies of my own, Charm, Libby, Jobie and my new puppy (not named yet).  I’m lucky to be home schooled.  On the days I finish school early I go out and play with dogs.   

I started competing with my dogs when I was 6.  My mom loves to herd so naturally that’s where I started too.   I competed in the 2002 nationals when I was 8 as most versatile junior handler.  I used the same dog, Charm, for all four events - herding, obedience, showmanship and agility.  Charm is now retired from competitions, but she still helps with chores around the house.  Mostly she lies around watching the younger dogs work.  Without Charm I would not have won High Open working Junior at the 2002 Nationals.  I still compete in Agility, Showmanship and Obedience, but herding is where my heart is.   In November 2007 I put a WTCH on my Aussie Mary’s Libby Lees and have a few points towards 2008 National.  My goal is to accumulate enough points to be invited to the 2008 or 2009 Nationals.

I also belong to a local 4-H group called the Lonesome Valley Wranglers.  I show sheep (breeding and market), horse (English and Western), small stock (poultry), public speaking and of course Dog.  This year I am taking on a new project, swine.  I am very excited as I have never owned a pig before.   4-H keeps me very busy, but I love learning about all the different animals.

I would have to say the best part about owning my dogs is all the friends I have made.  Our Region 2 has 4 top juniors, Megan Sims, her brother Tyler Sims and Shelby Shank.  We are all good friends and compete and play together.  After the herding trials we get to stay up late and play with our dogs in the dark.  We also sit around the fire ring and cook marshmallows for everyone.   I would like to congratulate all the juniors for their hard-earned accomplishment this year. 

Mary Alice and Sherman

Mary Alice and Libby
Mary Alice and Jobie

Mary Alice herding at 7yrs old shown with Aussie Charm.  Mary Alice was the #1  OPEN WORKING Jr at the 2002 Aussie Nationals with this dog at 8 years old.

Mary Alice and Jobie in a 4-H Obedience show.  Long sit & down.