SHELBYVILLE, Tenn. (WTVF) – A place in Shelbyville has a connection to an important Tennessee tradition.
Drive onto the property and you will be greeted by Bluetick Hounds running towards you. See them in action in the player above.
“They’re a very affectionate breed,” said Wendy Davis, who runs Davis Branch Blueticks. “They choose their people. I spend so much time watching them. They’re hilarious.”
“I’ve been breeding for 21 years,” she continued. “Your Bluetick is a very food-oriented breed. When there’s food, your Bluetick is there. They tell us when dinner should be ready. The dogs say, ‘Hey, come and feed us!’ We’re retired, so that’s what we do here.”
There is a reason for the orange dog houses on the property.
The University of Tennessee has this long tradition. Since 1953, they have had a live mascot named Smokey, a bluetick. A few years ago, Wendy received a call from Cindy Hudson, whose family has taken care of UT’s Smokey mascots for 30 years.
“She says to me, ‘We want the new Smokey to come from Tennessee,'” Wendy said.
In 2013, a puppy from Davis Branch Blueticks became Smokey X.
“Through his training, people literally fell in love with him immediately,” Wendy said. “I can’t describe the feeling that comes with it. People you don’t know thank you just for giving them a dog to follow and bond with.”
Now Smokey XI has also come from the Davis Branch Blueticks.
“He’s actually Smokey XI’s father,” Wendy said of Smokey X. “My boys went to the University of Tennessee and I don’t have to pay a dime! It’s free!”
As UT’s new season begins, Wendy said she gets the same feeling every time Smokey steps on the field.
“That’s my boy,” she smiled. “He’s my boy. I could never be more proud of these two dogs.”
Diapers for Diplomas program expands to MTSU
It’s been a while since I’ve had to buy diapers for my boys (thank goodness!). But when I recently bought a pack for a baby shower, I was SHOCKED at the price. That’s exactly why I hope anyone who needs help sees Jason’s story about the growing Diapers for Diplomas program. Hats off to anyone pursuing a college degree and raising babies. Two tough jobs! Please help spread the word – it could make all the difference.
-Carrie Sharp
