06/09/2026
Another two jam-packed weekends in the books, but first, let’s rewind to Spring Fever Retreat here at Nordika Farm.
The purpose of this retreat was simple: bring together women who share a passion for stockdogs and create a space where community, learning, encouragement, and genuine connection could thrive.
Over three full days, we worked dogs multiple times a day, tackled team driving challenges, played our always-entertaining Pass the Sheep game, went on pack walks with up to 16 dogs, explored stockmanship, shared meaningful conversations, enjoyed morning yoga led by the wonderful Victoria, experienced an evening sound bath from Upcycled Soul, tried our hand at glow-stick archery, and consumed what can only be described as a heroic amount of food. Nobody left hungry, that’s for certain.
What stood out most wasn’t the dog work itself. It was the people and the transformation that happened when they were given permission to slow down and simply be present.
We had dogs of all levels attend. Some were experienced working dogs, while others were just beginning their journey of learning how to regulate their nervous systems around livestock, other dogs, and even people. Watching these dogs settle into camp life was incredibly rewarding. Dogs that may have struggled in busy environments were napping peacefully, walking respectfully in large groups, and finding moments of calm and confidence alongside their handlers.
One of the unexpected highlights of the weekend was our round pen sessions with the horses. Each participant had the opportunity to step into the pen and experience firsthand how pressure leaves our bodies and influences the animals around us. Horses have an incredible ability to mirror what we’re carrying internally. They reflect our tension, our intention, our uncertainty, and our clarity with remarkable honesty. Time and time again, participants commented on how powerful these sessions were. For many, it became a favourite part of the retreat.
That lesson sits at the heart of good stockmanship. Before we can influence sheep, dogs, or horses, we must first become aware of ourselves.
As the days unfolded, people settled into a rhythm. Most participants camped on-site, sharing continental breakfasts in the morning, lunches throughout the day, and dinners together in the evenings. There is something deeply grounding about spending your days outdoors with dogs and livestock and ending them gathered together, sharing stories, laughter, and conversations long after the work was done.
The retreat concluded with a beautiful sound bath experience. Wrapped in blankets, surrounded by friends, dogs, and the peaceful energy of the farm, many of us found ourselves reluctant to leave the space when it was over. It was one of those rare moments where time seemed to slow down, allowing everyone to simply breathe, rest, and reconnect.
For me, that is the deeper purpose behind these gatherings.
Stockmanship has always been about more than moving sheep. It teaches awareness, patience, timing, responsibility, and connection. When you combine that with good food, shared experiences, meaningful conversations, and a supportive community, something special begins to happen.
The dogs may have been what brought us all together, but the friendships, laughter, lessons, and sense of belonging are what people carried home.
My heart is full after this one. Thank you to every person who attended, helped, shared a meal, supported another participant, or trusted us with their dogs. Watching this community continue to grow into something so welcoming, supportive, and authentic is one of the greatest gifts of this journey.
And if Spring Fever was any indication of what’s possible when great dogs and great people come together, we are already counting down the days until our Fall Fiasco Retreat, October 16-18. Expect more dog work, more learning, more connection, and more opportunities to slow down and enjoy the journey alongside your canine partner.
Booking is now open through our website.
Special thank you to my beautiful daughter for your photography skills!
Here’s to more dogs, more laughter, more learning, and more opportunities to reconnect with what matters most. ❤️🐑🐕🐎🌲✨
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