AKC Humane Fund ACE Award Winner – Exemplary Companion Dog: Wave

AKC Humane Fund ACE Award Winner – Exemplary Companion Dog: Wave

Interview with the Handler Steve Stochay

1. Wave is something of a celebrity on the New Mexico State University campus. How did he become so well-known?

Steve Stochay: In addition to his appearance at football games, Wave is a regular at campus activities such as new student programs, the late-night finals week dinner, and band practice. The visibility helps to build his fanbase. I am sure his line of merchandise at Sports Accessories does not hurt.

2. As a Border Collie, is he particularly well suited for the demands that come with a busy lifestyle?

Steve Stochay: Border Collies love to have a job, and Wave has many jobs. While Border Collies are known for their high energy levels, an off-switch and patience are also important in the job they were bred for; herding livestock. Wave uses these traits in his activities.

3. Is there a particular story you can share about how Wave has impacted a student’s life? Your own life?

Steve Stochay: During the annual NMSU “Noche de Luminarias” Christmas festival, the line for pictures with Wave was as long as the line for Santa pictures. Several parents commented that the picture with Wave was their kids’ top choice. Agriculture is important to New Mexico, and a Border Collie will be high on anyone’s list of farm or ranch dogs. Wave is very relatable, and the public enjoys seeing the diversity of the breed. He is the little dog that can.

4. Does Wave know that he’s famous? How do you manage his busy career?

Steve Stochay: Wave is the most outgoing dog I have ever owned, and he loves going to places like the stadium, where he interacts with people. I am not sure if he understands fame, but he likes the attention. I am a compulsive teacher, and Wave is always ready to work, and this makes a good team. As a professor (Electrical Engineering) it is rare to have a lot of interaction with a D1 College Athletics Program like NMSU. Wave has served as a bridge, and I have developed a much better appreciation for the role college athletics plays in connecting the university to
the community.

5. What does Wave do when he’s not on campus? Does he have fun during summer break?

Steve Stochay: Wave’s primary job is as a Mesilla Valley Search and Rescue member where he deploys for air scenting, tracking, and human remains detection missions. This activity requires a lot of training time. He is also entered in several AKC Rally, Obedience, and Agility Trials this spring and summer.

Wave is the most outgoing dog I have ever owned, and he loves going to places like the stadium, where he interacts with people. I am not sure if he understands fame, but he likes the attention