Clara Caufield with one of her dogs. Photo from Native News Project / University of Montana School of Journalism

'Red’ – Most excellent home security system
Why big ideas matter most
By Clara Caufield
A Cheyenne Voice

As I write this, a very large dog, weighing 107 pounds has appropriated my bed. “Red,” newly christened (like the country western song “Ole Red”) was a Christmas present from one of my sons, a full grown, intact bloodhound male and,very handsome fellow. His paws are three inches wide with long black toenails, yet Red is still a youngster at heart.

He was rescued, not being cared for, fed or trained. Since I am somewhat of a dog trainer (having gone to classes for that) and Red was in need of better circumstances, my boy decided we would be a good fit, in the process providing home protection for me. “Mom, we worry about you and so got you this dog, because he also needs a good home. Once bonded, he will watch out for you,” they predicted.

In spite of dog food costs, now sure to rapidly escalate, “Red” is very welcome. I am an elderly woman, living alone in a rural area and sad to say, surrounded by a large number of meth addicts, alcoholics and poor folks.

In Busby, Mont., as on most of the Northern Cheyenne Reservation, there is an alarming rate of home invasions, which we suspect is related to the alarming rate of meth addiction in this area. In the past two years, I have been subjected to two while me and Ms. Reilly (my best friend dog) and the backside rider in “old green” (her pickup), were away from home. The first time the robbers got away with a cell phone, computer, my wallet and some cash.

The second time, they confiscated a pistol, chain saw, gas cans, saddle, bridles and broke my flat screen TV, landing on it while climbing through a window to invade. The real sorrow was a set of trophy bull riding spurs won by my late son Rusty Spotted Elk, never to be replaced. Though I called the local BIA cops who came to take reports, it has been to no avail, the same result experienced by other tribal members. Home invasions or “break ins” are increasingly common, as meth invades our reservation. Some victims don’t even bother to call, having little hope for resolution.

Now re-armed, I hope I won’t have to shoot someone, as many folks, especially elders have actually been at home during break-ins.

Read the rest of the story on the all new Native Sun News website: “Red” – Most Excellent Home Security System

(Clara Caufield can be reached at acheyennevoice@gmail.com.)

Copyright permission Native Sun News