I think I have finally conquered one of my latest conundrums with my dog Raven. She is a 2-1/2-year-old black German Shepherd that weighs half as much as I do and is twice as strong. When I take her for a walk, or should I say when she takes me for a walk, she pulls like a freight train. I have tried different collars and harnesses with no result.

I recently saw a different kind of harness that does not cross over the chest, it goes between the front legs, with a D-ring on the front. The purpose of this is to redirect the dog, so when they do pull it diverts them to the side. Momma Said, “Kind of like getting a toddler’s attention with candy.”

Before, I could picture a sled dog with the harness across the chest and hooked at the top to the sled. They are, of course bred to pull. I guess it is the same thing with any working breed. Raven is very much prey driven. Anything that moves, she wants to go after. Momma Said, “I was the caboose behind the engine.”

The very first time I put this harness on her, it was like flipping a switch in her brain. She was a totally different dog, no pulling, no running to keep up with her it was like a miracle. That is the first time I actually enjoyed a walk with her. I saw this on Facebook Marketplace, so if you need a miracle with your dog, Momma Said, “Take my advice, it is worth the price and peace of mind.”

Florida Watermelon Sunrise

6 cups Florida watermelon chunks, pureed

2 Florida oranges, juiced

1/2 cup vodka (such as Florida Fish Hawk Spirits)

1/2 cup ginger beer (or to taste)

1 cup melted orange sherbet

Fresh! Florida Watermelon Sunrise from Follow Fresh From Florida on Vimeo.

Instructions

Puree watermelon in a blender (or with an immersion blender or food processor), and strain if desired.

Combine watermelon puree and orange juice, mixing well.

Fill glasses with ice, and pour the desired amount of vodka into each glass, followed by a watermelon mix and a splash of ginger beer.

Drizzle orange sherbet and garnish with a watermelon slice and orange peel.