[AnAmericanMother]

Sounds like he might have had the gene for EIC (Exercise Induced Collapse). Our Ruby probably has the gene, we're going to have her tested. A combination of extreme physical exertion, extreme mental stress, and high excitement causes their temperature to spike and interferes with neurotransmitters. Their hind legs go all uncoordinated on them, and they'll collapse altogether unless you put them in a cool quiet place and ply them with Doggie Gatorade and turn a fan on them.

Ruby was pushed to the limit on a very hot humid day when she lost her coordination. We've cautiously pushed her several times since then and have seen no sign of a repeat performance. The only way we'll know for sure is to have her tested.

[garandgal]

I love your story of the dogs having a "job" to do. We have a German Shorthair...the dog is literally bird crazy. Right now, we have a smaller tree that has a nest about 6' up; the dog will balance on her hind legs for several minutes in attempt to see what's going on up there (to the great amusement of the neighbor kids).

My hubby says that when he misses a pheasant that Belle has found, pointed, and held for him she gives him "the look."

To keep her occupied during the off season, we play frisbie...they fly too!

[cubreporter]

Well, he never had any collapse or anythng like that. Just the heat when he would hear a backfire or a cap gun. Needless to say he and his buddie were inside the house with music playing and the TV on when it was fireworks time. WE never used the fireworks but you could hear them. Of course, there are always the spoilsports who continue late into the evening firing off crackers days after Fourth of July is long over. Those egg heads though we can’t control. :)