Wheaten Walks

2018 May - Assiniboine Park
What a wonderful evening for our first walk of the season! Lovely evening - no rain! The Wheaties out for this walk were Sheena, Teighan, Kelly, Sandi and two new members, Levi & Hudson, as well as Wheaten Wannabe, George! We had a great walk around Assiniboine Park and shared part of the walkway with participants for the Alzheimer Walk. Of course the Wheatens were all well behaved and received many compliments. It was also great to see so many people recognize the breed.Wheatens are becoming well known! At the end of our walk, we enjoyed some further conversation as well as refreshments and treats. Thank you to everyone who came out and hopefully we'll see you on June 27! Maureen & Ron Baziuk.

2017 August - Kildonan Park
    Once again this year, in spite of potential rain, we lucked out with our September walk at Bois de Esprit Trail. Signy, Tully, Jackie, Kelly and Sandi enjoyed a beautiful fall day. Oh and their humans did too! The sun was shining and with all the trees we were protected from the wind. We were also very fortunate to come upon a family of deer. There was a doe and her triplets as well as a couple of others. The Wheaties were all very quiet and didn't scare them away.
    And I must thank Toby and Emily for a lovely collection of leaves!       Maureen & Ron Baziuk.
    Thank you to all for coming out. Looking forward to seeing you at our BBQ wind-up at Hyland Park on Sunday, October 15.

2017 August - Kildonan Park
"We had a beautiful evening for our August walk at Kildonan Park. Ruff McDuff and Patty Cakes joined Kelly and Sandi. The park was really busy with all kinds of activities taking place, including Rainbow Stage. Wonderful to see so many people out enjoying a great summer evening. The gardens at Kildonan Park are absolutely spectacular this year - a must see! All Wheaties were very well behaved and were stopped several times by people wanting to meet them." Maureen & Ron Baziuk.

2016 June - King's Park
Our first walk of the season was at King's Park in Fort Garry. What a beautiful evening for a walk around this great park. We had 8 Wheatens on the walk...Fergus and his harem of Callie, Muggins, Teighen, Tully, Sheena, Kelly and Sandi. The waterfall isn't running just yet but we did get a great shot of everyone. We also walked the "Carol Shields" labyrinth, although there were a few us who might have cheated and cut through at the odd spot. It was wonderful to have so many Wheatens on the walk and all were so very well behaved (including those on 2 legs)! Thanks to all for coming out. Looking forward to seeing you on July 20 at the walk at Kildonan Park. (details on our website) Maureen & Ron Baziuk.

photo credits to Ray Litke

2015 September - Bois des Esprit Park
What an amazing September day. A fantastic day for our September Walk. We started out with the 3 Amigos - Teagen, Sandi & Kelly and were delighted when Molly joined us along the walk. We enjoyed a walk down the beautiful Bois des Esprit Trail and a visit to one of our favourite spots - the Spirit Tree. Thank you to those who came out for the walk and for those that weren't able to make it, wherever you were, hope you had the opportunity to get out and enjoy a great September Day; a gift from Mother Nature. Looking forward to seeing you on October 18 for our last walk of the season and the tail-gate party at Assiniboine Park. Maureen & Ron Baziuk.

photo credits to Ray Litke

2015 July - Kildonan Park
   With some trepidation we went ahead with the July Walk at Kildonan Park; were those thunderstorms going to get us? Was it going to be too hot for the Wheaties? We were so pleasantly surprised - no rain AND the temperature cooled a bit, so we went carried on! For the tour of Kildonan Park, we had Molly, Teagen, Sandi and Kelly. There were lots of people out to the park with lots of activities and games taking place, in addition to, of course, to Rainbow Stage.
   Great to see people out enjoying our wonderful parks. Molly was quite interested in the squirrels and if only she could climb, she would have easily taken care of one of them! A lovely walk - thanks to everyone for coming out! See you next month at Henteleff Park!
      Maureen & Ron Baziuk.

photo credits to Ray Litke

2015 May - King's Park
We were a small group for this walk at King's Park but what a beautiful evening! Warm with a gentle breeze and not one mosquito! The wheaties - Muggins, Sandi, Kelly and our newest member - Teaghan! Congratulations to Ray & Gail on the newest addition to their family. Teaghan is a beautiful girl with a wonderful personality. As we were chatting at the end of our walk, we met Matthew with his 2 dogs, Chip, a Coton-de-Tulear and his Wheaten, Charlie, a fine looking fellow who mixed right in with our crew. We may be seeing them again in July.
Next walk is at Kildonan Park on Wednesday, July 15. Hope to see you there! Maureen & Ron Baziuk.

2012 July - King's Park
   On a very hot and humid evening a group of 9 dogs and their owners gathered for the second Wheaten walk of the season. The dogs ranged in age from 5months to 8 years. We set off toward the off leash area of Kings Park, where some of the dogs were let off their leash and allowed to play and run tiring themselves out in the heat. This resulted in a rest being required along with a drink of water.
   Following our rest we carried on with our walk around the edge of the park grateful for the shade of the large trees. We arrived at a clearing that had a beautiful garden. We stopped for another rest and gathered around for the usual group photo and a "water" break.
   Nine hot dogs and their owners were glad to return to their cars and air conditioning and are looking forward to meeting again on our next walk August 15, 2012 in St. Vital Park. Hopefully the weather will a little bit cooler especially for the dogs who for the most part do not like the heat and probably would prefer a romp in the snow!

2012 June 20 - Assiniboine Park
   Our first Wheaten walk of the year looked to be in jeopardy when the rain moved in from the west about 6:30 PM. All was not not lost however as mother nature stopped the rain and presented us with a beautiful double rainbow just before 7:00 PM. To my surprise there was a good gathering of Wheatens anticipating our walk. A total of nine Wheatens showed up. Obviously a brief shower just prior to our walk was no deterrent to a breed originating in rainy Ireland.
   We all met in the parking lot just north of the conservatory in Assiniboine park at the schedule time. As usual all dogs and their owners gathered around and renewed acquaintances from last year. Also we had new Wheatens to to become friends with. One family also came with a new member to their family who won all our hearts with his beautiful smiles! After completing greetings we started off on our walk. We headed north out of the parking lot and turned right on Pavilion Drive and quickly realized we would have to navigate around large puddles of standing water on the pathways. I had read sometime ago the walkways and roads are all part of the Assiniboine park upgrades. Thank goodness. After passing two junctions in the road system we turned left on the pathway and walked the pathway that is part of the Trans Canada Trail that follows the Assiniboine River. Upon reaching the foot bridge over the river we veered left toward the new duck pond. The duck pond was chosen as the spot for the customary group photo. From there we headed up to the Pavilion and back to the car park.
   It was an enjoyable walk as we had no more rain a clearing sky. In typical Wheaten fashion however all the dogs we wet and dirty on the underside and legs. Towels were the order of the day! We now look forward to our next walk July 18, 2012 in Kings Park in Fort Garry.

2010 November - Assiniboine Park
   Once again we met at the conservatory parking lot and let the Wheatens greet one another before heading towards the Pavilion. It was there that much to our surprise quite a change was going on. Fortunately John Morton was able to give us a briefing about the planned children’s nature and adventure playground. Further along we were amazed at the expanded duck pond. Also new walkways towards the bridge.
   We walked on the road as there wasn't much traffic and it wasn't long before Ron spotted the deer. Good thing we had our Wheatens on leash or they might have enjoyed the chase. Ron’s flashlight came in handy not only to keep us on track but also for pick up. As we circled the park the snow flakes started. Well maybe more than a few and the wind picked up. Only the odd jogger and the men in blue were circling the park. Oh did I say circling, Maggie was having a whale of a time with her flexi lead. The envy of the other Wheatens, Fergus, Gulliver and Kelly.
   This being the final scheduled Wheaten walk I would like to thank everyone that made it out this year. Each walk proved to be an enjoyable experience other than the mosquitoes but nonetheless the Wheatens had a great time. Many thanks to John, Anthea and Maureen for their contribution of photos for the newsletter and website. It’s been a pleasure!   (Eileen O)

2010 October - The Forks
   Not only are Wheatens a hardy breed - are their owners! This was one cool evening. We met at the Children’s Museum and took the path along the river heading towards St.Boniface. It was actually very pretty with the lights shining on the Red River through the trees. With no definite direction in mind we were drawn towards the Esplanade Bridge when it was suggested we walk over it. Good idea! Winnipeg’s skyline is quite beautiful.
   We made our way back checking out the progress of the Museum of Human Rights, very impressive, and much to the enjoyment of the Wheatens we continued on past the Johnson Terminal and all around the Forks back to where we started.
   The cool air brought the best out in the Wheatens and they had a great time. Not so sure about their owners but they did allow me to take pictures more than once. We were one tired bunch when we got home, especially Wheatens; Fergus, Kelly, Magnum, Maggie, Signe, Gilbert and Gulliver.       (Eileen O)

2010 September - Bishop Grandin Greenway Trail
   A bit of a surprise this trail. We made our way from St.Vital Park to River Rd and started on the trail. It is a very clean marked trail. The trail runs along Bishop Grandin but there is enough of a wind break that shelters the path and muffles the sound of traffic.
   A long the curvy trail where the grassy berms nicely maintained, a pond, community gardens and benches.
   It was nightfall and just a light sprinkle fell which the dogs enjoyed as they followed along. There weren’t too many people nor bikes so it was a pleasant walk. Once again Kelly was in the company of her favorite males Fergus and Gulliver. Must return in the summer to do the full walk.      (Eileen O)

2010 August - Seine River
   This walk started at the foot of the Provencher bridge on Tache. It was a lovely evening for a walk and what a pleasant surprise. The trail took us along the river in a park like setting. As we continued along the path it led to the rear of Fort Gibraltar and into Whittier park. What a lovely site! Perhaps better known during the winter months where the Festival Du Voyageur is held.
   The two lovely female wheatens out this evening were the young Kelly and a young at heart 14 year old Shani. She had no trouble keeping up in fact her owner told us her norm was a 5 K daily walk. Ron and Shani have slowed it down now to a 2K. Hear that boys, Fergus, Gulliver and Benjamin.
   We walked a fair distance enjoying the evening calm and made our way back just as our pesky friends found us. This is a very lovely walk and apparently it goes quite a distance. Perhaps the next time we will start at the other end. Surely the September walk there will be no mosquitoes.      (Eileen O)

2010 July - Harte Trail (Charleswood)

This walk started at the beginning or some might refer to it as the end of the Harte Trail near the Perimeter Highway. At the start we met up with a fellow who was having great difficulty catching his rather large dog. It decided to play and bounced all over the place ignoring its owner and wanting to visit our dogs. Finally they took off in the opposite direction and we were able to start on the trail. So much for the dogs on leash rule...
As we made our way along the trail it became apparent that there were fewer people walking and more cyclists. We even came upon a fellow on a bike towing one of those large carts which holds two people. Hmmm, try and figure that one out.The walk was pleasant enough if one didn’t have to keep a heads up for the cyclists and the wheatens sure didn’t have a problem. This time Kelly had another female join her Maggie.

Unfortunately heading back on the trail we encountered those pesky Mosquitoes again. So in our haste to return to our vehicles no pictures were taken. Sorry Phil I don’t have photos for the website. (Eileen O)

2009 October - Charleswood Parkway
   This was a cool evening where one would choose to stay home. But not little Phoebe. Again she paired off with Cameron and off they went. Not too far back the rest of the group braved the wind and made their way to the Charleswood Parkway. The good thing was the paved walk and bright streetlights. It is a fair distance from Portage Ave to Grant. The Wheatens certainly drew a lot of attention from the passing cars. Probably wondering what the heck we were doing out there.
   Halfway on the walk we felt adventuresome and decided to use the pedestrian bridge. It felt weird with all the traffic beneath us but it didn’t seem to bother the Wheatens one bit. As we headed back rather hurriedly the cool air energized the Wheatens even more.
   October ends the scheduled walks usually at Robins following the Charleswood Parkway walk. I would like to thank everyone who was able to participate in the walks this year and hope you enjoyed visiting the different trails throughout the city. Please let me know if you know of a trail that is in your area of the city. I will try to accommodate all requests. It was my pleasure.      (Eileen O).

2009 September - Crescent Drive Park
After having to cancel the August walk due to the rainy weather this time the weather cooperated and it was the perfect evening. Crescent Park was on the list to revisit. It is in an area where the scenery is quite lovely. The walk takes you through the park and along the road side which is well treed. It has that cottage like feeling. Well almost.
It is always fun when the Lesey children are out especially when there is a puppy. Laurie was quite happy to hand over the lead to Cameron who took Phoebe for a good run. As we returned to the parking lot we were met with yet another puppy. Littermate Iggy. Well we couldn’t miss the opportunity to let the puppies have some fun. Maggie and Gulliver led the way to the open field and the fun began. There is nothing like watching puppies play though we could hardly see them. Cameron and Carolyn kept close by. Even with the earlier start time it didn’t take long before it was evening and the sun was setting which gave a beautiful glow in the sky. See you in October! (Eileen O).

2009 July - King’s Park
This was the month we were really looking forward to revisiting King’s Park in the middle of summer at the peak of the flower season, well Mother Nature had other ideas. It had been raining during the day and it was debatable whether anyone would show up. Not only was there the threat of rain but it was windy and cold. In July? I started to wonder when there wasn’t anybody in the parking lot but sure enough there were a few brave folks that ventured out. The rain held off and we took the path that was fairly sheltered. This is the kind of weather that Wheatens thoroughly enjoy more so than their owners. They were energized.
At the end of the walk we back tracked to the dog park which of course was empty and let the dogs loose. The chase was on and they had a great work out. So the evening wasn’t a wash out and just as we headed back to our cars it started to sprinkle. Mother Nature may not have provided blooms but the greenery was glorious. (Eileen O).

2009 June Walk - Sturgeon Creek Greenway Trail
Amazingly this was one of the hottest days in June. The evening was quite humid not exactly what Wheatens enjoy. Nonetheless the trail turned out to be most enjoyable. It started off at the Vimy Arena and meandered along Sturgeon Creek and ending at Sturgeon Road opposite the Grace Hospital.

The trail is very well maintained and enough benches along the trail to take a breather.

The evening being so humid we welcomed the pause along the way. The trail is well maintained and put to good use by the locals in the area.
Hats off to Trooper who kept up with the young uns Maggie, Fergus and Gulliver.

This is another trail worth revisiting in the fall. I would even venture in the winter. Anthea was quite taken with the scenery and put her camera to good use. (Eileen O)

2009 May Walk - Assiniboine Park
The first scheduled Wheaten walk of the season was held at Assiniboine Park. Finally the weather was very much in our favor and the park was awakening in all its beauty. The trees were in leaf and the grass was a sea of lush greenery. We truly have one of the finest city parks.

There are many trails and pathways where one can meander with their buddy and enjoy nature. What I noticed were more baggy posts. That is one area where we excel, picking up after our dogs. There were many admiring glances and comments as our group of Wheatens strolled along. I say stroll as the walks are exactly that. Not a marathon and we try to accommodate everyone’s ability to make it enjoyable for all. Generally the walks are an hour.

Thank you everyone for joining us on the walk. Always welcome children, Ian, and yes there were 10 Wheatens. Toby is in the photo without his owner as Phil was behind the camera Many thanks. So can you spare an hour to join us once a month and make your Wheaten feel he is #1. See you June! (Eileen O).

2008 October Walk - Charleswood Parkway
The final scheduled Wheaten walk wound up at the Charleswood Parkway. We meet at the Robin’s parking lot and leisurely do the 2 ½ mile walk in approx an hour and half. There was a slight sprinkling of rain but it held off. As usual the Wheatens greet one another some more exuberantly than others. One observation is how they interact from the first walk of the season and at the end. And oh my when a new Wheaten joins in they sure notice. Overall the walks are most pleasurable for both Wheatens and their owners.
This particular walk is a lot nicer walking on the pathway than one imagines while driving by on the parkway. We even saw a couple of

deer. So did the Wheatens ! I think the pathways might be cleared during the winter months so there’s an idea. We ended the evening over a coffee at Robin’s. There has been interest in continuing the walks thru the winter months. Especially from members that are away at the lake during the summer. We will give it a try. Please check the website for any scheduled walks. (Eileen O).

2008 September: Harte Trail West Walk (TransCanada Trail Extension)
   This walk took us out into the country. (Sort of) The starting point for this portion of the Trans Canada Trail was off Hall Road which is just beyond the perimeter, off Roblin Road (ed note; 1 mile West of Perimeter overpass).
   It was a lovely evening to hit the trail and see where it led us. It must have been the country air that had such an invigorating affect on the Wheatens. It wasn’t long before some of the Wheatens were allowed to run free. Keep in mind this trail winds through the prairies with nothing in sight for miles. Interesting how the Wheatens would run back and forth between the group at the front and the slower moving folk bringing up the rear. Phil is quite familiar with this area having walked it often with Toby so he was able to guide us along. Good thing because the trail goes on for miles.
   We were quite enjoying the scenic prairie while the Wheatens were romping everywhere having a great time. Then the more adventurous ones had to let go and race through the fields and sure enough found the ditches with muddy water. This had everyone in fits of laughter, except for the owners of the three Wheatens up to their elbows in mud. I think it would be fair to say it was Sheena who led Gulliver astray but what ever possessed Maggieto join them? As the sun set it was quite beautiful - one evening we are not about to forget. I’m sure we had some very tired Wheatens.   (Eileen O).

2008 August: Wildwood park Wheaten Walk
A perfect summer evening! And a great turn out of members with their Wheatens. Wildwood Park is another hidden gem that must be experienced. There are pathways between a residential area and a walking trail on the dike along the golf course. The area was beautifully treed and the setting almost cottage-like and fortunately for us we had Alex to guide us through the park. The most fun was when we found an enclosed area where we let the dogs loose and they took full advantage of their freedom chasing one another. What a sight watching 10 Wheatens racing around, playing and just enjoying the open space. It wasn’t long before they were tired out and took time out to catch a breath and cool down.
First time out on the walk was Jacquie with Izzi and guest Sharanya Raj. A warm welcome to Winnipeg. The Wheatens were so well behaved they are worth a mention: Fergus, Finnegan, Gilbert, Gulliver, Izzi, Maggie, Magnum, Neelu, Tara and Tully. The boys outnumbered the girls this time which is unusual. There are only 2 scheduled walks left. Hope you can join us. (Eileen O).

2008 July: Royalwood Wheaten Walk
   Once again the weather was iffy but no rain, only sunshine. The walk started through the trail in Royalwood which took everyone by surprise. The Seine river is below in the brush and the well paved trail,(not to be confused with the rugged path along the river) is used by cyclists and the local residents. It winds through shaded and open grassed areas. The scenery is quite lovely.
   It was the perfect evening so our stroll continued on along the Bishop Grandin Hwy which led into Royalwood. We took a breather at the striking fountain and continued on admiring the homes and landscaping along the way. We circled back to the bridge where we initially crossed, totally in agreement with our first thoughts that this area is very lovely. And we think we spotted the oldest tree in Winnipeg.
   It was great to have new members join us on their 1st Wheaten walk Judy with her Finnigan and David and Elaine, children Caroline and Cameron with Tully. The evening was topped off with a few of us going to Double Dee’s Cheesecake and Coffee House. See you next month!   (Eileen O)

2008 June: Winnipeg Humane Society Wheaten Walk
   Under a very threatening, dark sky we headed to the Humane Society dog park. As we drove closer sure enough, a cloudburst of rain but another 10 min on the road there was blue sky and the sun peeping through. The dog park lot was empty so as we headed towards the Humane society parking lot we spotted Christine and Ted with their Wheatens and not far behind the, rest of the group. Good decision as they found a much drier more pleasant trail around the grounds of the Humane Society.
   It was a very enjoyable walk as usual, Wheatens getting some exercise and fun time in just before the rain started again. Now there just happened to be a Timmy’s at the corner... So where better to quench our thirst! Wayne spotted the “Wheat’n carrot muffin” Hmmm! The group was smaller, lightning and rain in Charleswood and Lindenwood kept the regular walkers from joining us. Welcome to new members Shelley and her son, 1st time out with Sheena.   (Eileen O)
   A reminder to please check the website for last minute changes to any of the WOTR events.

2008 May: King's Park Wheaten Walk
   What a great place to start off the 1st Wheaten walk. We found another hidden gem of a park in Fort Garry. It is tucked away and requires a little bit of searching but well worth it. Everyone found the parking lot and after the initial greetings, introductions and tail wagging we were on our way. The grounds were beautiful and the walkways winded throughout the park. What I liked was there was something to offer for everyone.
   Phil was very pleased he came out because to his delight there is an off-leash dog park within the area. He took advantage and let Toby sniff around. Further along the path we came across some great hills where we let all our dogs run loose and they had a blast. We let them enjoy the moment and than continued on the path along the river.
    The group was very impressed with King's Park they couldn't believe they hadn't heard about it before. I suggest they revisit when all the flowers are in bloom. A little bit of paradise right here in Winnipeg.   (Eileen O)

2007 October: The Forks Wheaten Walk
    October is the month that marks the end of the Wheaten scheduled walks. Even with the earlier start time it is dusk but we manage to find our way around. This group of enthusiastic people met at the Forks and following the usual greeting of the Wheatens we decided to follow the trail which leads to the Waterfront Drive. We started off at the Children's Museum and walked along the path northernly under the Esplanade Riel Bridge. What a striking sight at night along with the lights shining from the Sals on the bridge. We continued north and followed the walks along the Stephen Juba Park on Waterfront Drive. This is where we all decided to sell our homes and move into the luxurious condos we were eyeing. Being evening, the condos were well lit and we were intrigued by the view. We decided we could not live there without our dogs until we heard barking from one of the condos and quickly changed our minds. The park is probably one of the most beautifully landscaped areas in the downtown area with interestingly designed benches and street lamps spread throughout the walkways. It was a very enjoyable Winnipeg evening, cool and clear with a gentle breeze, the kind the Wheatens are very partial to.
    There will be more spontaneous walks throughout the winter. Phil, the webmaster, will keep everyone informed on the website - check it out! My very favorite winter walk is the river trail on the Red River once it freezes over.
    It has been great fun and adventure discovering the new parks and walkways sprinkled throughout the city. If anyone has a walkway near their area let us know and we will add it to our schedule. I do appreciate everyone who was able to participate and hope to see you out on the walks.   (Eileen O)

2007 September: Charleswood Parkway Wheaten Walk
Fall time proves to be the most popular Wheaten walk and the Charleswood Parkway was another excellent choice. The Parkway runs alongside Moray, the path is paved and very nicely landscaped from Portage Avenue to Grant where there is an off-leash dog park.
A great turn out with new members which made it most enjoyable. The Crawford family joined us with their four children who were most willing to walk (run) any Wheaten especially the young pups. Yes, it was a rather boisterous group, with much energized Wheatens - a sight indeed! Too bad traffic held Gail up. She decided to take puppies Magnum and Muggins on their own little walk and waited for the group to return. Where? At Robins Donuts. Nice way to end the evening. (Eileen O)

2007 August: La Barriere Park Wheaten Walk
    La Barriere Park is a little further than our usual drive but well worth it. The most direct route ( I think) is to follow Waverley. to the other side (South) of the Perimeter Highway until you see the Park sign on your right. The park has 2 main trails for walking and cycling and in the winter, cross country skiing. A park that is open year round. Hmmm, maybe a winter wiener roast.
    Everyone found the main parking lot easily and after the initial greetings we headed off onto the trail. This area was new to most of us but we were fortunate to have Alex to lead the way. We had reason to doubt him however as Alex has a way of turning things into an adventure and the Wheatens love following his lead through the tall grass and brush. It was fun to watch the dogs run the trail and of course there are those that run free. They didn't venture too far ahead, racing back and forth and trying to outrun each other. Another path took us near the Seine River where we stopped to catch our breath and take a photo. Notice the one wet dog. She just couldn't resist going for a dip.
    We certainly got our exercise that evening. It was a longer walk than usual but no body minded, especially the dogs. Except for the area where we tried to avoid the burrs but didn't quite succeed. Oh well it won't be the first time we had to remove burrs off our Wheatens. We could have stayed on the open paths but would not have had as much fun and what better way for Alex to prove he really knew his way around the park. He did!
    Where did the summer go? It will be fall when we meet for the September walk. It will be along the Charleswood Parkway. The good news is that the walk is paved and the bad(???) news is that it ends at a Robins Donuts. I'm sure we won't pass that up. (Eileen O)

2007 July: Provincial Heritage Park Wheaten Walk
We arrived early at the Provincial Heritage Park only to find the main gates were locked. There was a small entrance gate opened but it didn't look like there was anyone around so rather than risk going somewhere we shouldn't we decided to re group on Cloutier Drive. Plan B worked out even better than expected.
This is a trail that runs along the Red River and under the South Perimeter Bridge which would take you to King's Park. Luckily the trail was shaded for the most part and what one would think was a very hot evening to be walking turned out to be fairly nice. The heat of the day probably was reason enough to not venture out in the evening, however there are a few "die hards" that never let me down. A good thing too, because we had a new Wheaten with her owners join us. It didn't take long for Diamond to meet the other Wheatens in another enjoyable summer walk. Must do this trail again. (Eileen O)

2007 May: Assiniboine Park Wheaten Walk
This lovely warm evening in May brought many Winnipeggers out enjoying the beautiful grounds at Assiniboine Park. A little difficult finding a spot to park as the production Shakespeare in the Park was held outdoors next to the conservatory. However it wasn't long before the Wheatens were busy sniffing and greeting one another like old friends. As we made our way along the paths we noticed another group of dogs. There were several Greyhounds strolling elegantly along with their owners. Hmm... We wondered how they would react to our Wheatens? On second thought...
The paths led us to the bridge which meant only one thing - Sargeant's ice cream. So off we went, crossing Portage Avenue with onlookers wondering what this group was all about. I must say the Wheatens were well behaved, they must have known there was a treat awaiting them. The ice cream gave the Wheatens an additional burst of energy (like they needed it) as they were quite playful on the way back. 'Fergus' was particularly interested in getting the girls Maggie and Signe to play with him. It was quite funny. We stopped at the pavilion to take the usual group photo before we made our way back to the parking lot. Everyone was looking forward to the new Wheaten walk schedule. See you in June. (Eileen O)

2006 October Wheaten Walk
A small group however it was very enjoyable and the weather was actually nicer than we anticipated. There was no wind so that made a difference. We stayed on the road where there was some lights and than took a walk around the pond. At the end of the walk we went for coffee. It was nice to sit and chat about what else but our dogs - very interesting conversations. Everyone had a good time, another good reason to keep the walks going. (Eileen O)

An Observation on Off Leash Parks

In late December 2006 we visited Calgary for a week and took our Wheaten. Dame Fortune was smiling on us as there were TWO off-leash parks within easy walking/driving distance of our daughter's home (near 14thStSW and 38thAve). We first visited the Elbow River park which, from our starting point, featured walks of 9km to the north or 7km to the south along the banks of the Elbow River - fantastic, and all off-leash. There is a beach called "Sandy Beach" where your dog must be on leash (about 200 feet) but just further down river is a dog beach!

On the ridge above the river walk was another park, 3/4 of a mile long and about 300 feet wide, again off-leash.

The park closes from 11:00pm to 5:00am and is illuminated from sunset to closing - well done Calgary. I was chatting with a retired fellow walking his two Labs. He offered the opinion that if you could take a survey in two different cities, there would be more dog human incidents where the parks are not off-leash. His argument? Dogs are pack animals and function very well in groups when dominant, passive and escape behavior can occur without the confines of leash. We walked our Wheaten every day for up to two hours and met and mingled with many, many dogs (at least a 1/2 dozen Wheatens too) and did not observe a single problem with dog encounters or dog/human encounters. Problems must occur but they are rare. By the way, you are expected to clean up after your dog and every spring they organize a weekend volunteer clean-up. All and all, a very pleasant experience. We live in Charleswood and the our city will not even allow off-leash in the Assiniboine forest park at Grant and Chalfont. Perhaps we should call on our councilors... (Phil G)

Spring 2007 Update

In late Spring of 2007 the City of Winnipeg made it official; the south section of the old Charleswood

Golf Course, about 100 acres, is now an off-leash park. It's only fenced on the north and east but there are substantial stands of trees on 3 sides. Best approach is off Grant or Oakdale. You can park between the Charleswood Curling Club and the baseball park. Great place! Thank you City of Winnipeg. It feels much better to get off my small soap box.

The Trans Canada Trail, west of the Perimeter

The TransCanada Trail passes south of Charleswood. This section is called the Harte Trail and runs from Chalfont straight west to the Perimeter Highway - but the TCT continues westbound on the other side of the highway. One can walk at least 4 miles crossing a section road every mile, passing south of the Breezy Bend golf course along the way. An interesting prairie walk. The winter can be more challenging with an always cold wind and you have to be wary of snowmobiles. Toby and I find the walk to be good for the sole and the soul.