Mothers Day evening we were having a lovely dinner, cooked by my Hubby, at my Mother-in-Law's house. We even brought out the birthday cake we got for my hubby earlier in the week for dessert.
There Herkimer was, laying down, minding his own business. He was even off to the side, just like he was supposed to be... when what did I decide to do?? Walk over him to get to my seat and a piece of cake.
As I brought my second foot (the right one) over Herkimer, the toe of my sock got caught in the zipper of his vest pocket. I lost my balance (which I don't have much of to begin with) and went down. Herkimer didn't attempt to try to get up while I was stepping over him -- again, exactly what he was supposed to do.
So today, after a bunch of x-rays - I have an avulsion fracture of my right big toe! No wonder it hurt! And turned a lovely shade of purple! AND I tore my favorite "Woof" socks! Sheesh....
I'm just VERY glad Herkimer didn't try to stand up - I don't want to think how THAT would have ended...
Dog = 1; Klutzy Owner = 0
Despite the broken toe, our obedience class went extremely well tonight! My son joined me and helped work with him -- he did okay (my son that is). Herk on the other hand was wonderful. I think he really understood the corrections that the trainer made last week, because we didn't have a single problem with the other dogs. He would alert to them, but a "Leave it" brought him right back. Herkimer breezed past the greeting a person with a dog and the loose leash activity. We even walked out together (him and I), past the dogs from class and the ones waiting in the store front - without an incident! Whoo Hoo!
By no means is this problem fixed. But he knows what he is supposed to do, so that makes it easier to move up to stronger distractions and meeting dogs outside class. And that is what I'm doing later in the week. I'm taking Herk to the puppy class (by the same trainer) during the socialization part. And I have a couple friends lined up to work on the meeting part with different dogs.
It really is amazing how much difference a structured obedience class makes! The progress, not only Herkimer has made, but the other dogs as well!
Before the toe incident, we also started taking him out to public places (where dogs are not likely to be) and started practicing. He was overly distracted but followed commands very well. His biggest problem came when we stopped to talk to someone, look at merchandise or pay at the register. He lost his focus and roamed around too much. But what do they say??? Practice, practice, practice. He will never relax in a new place if I don't keep taking him out.
Progress is a beautiful thing!
Oh -- and he didn't eat anything in the house today! (granted, I was home by 12:30 because of my toe - but I'll take any progress in THAT department).
Tuesday, May 10, 2011
Saturday, May 7, 2011
Ahhhh... separation anxiety
Is so much fun to deal with! NOT! We have to start all over with crate training... and we have renamed Herk to Herkimer Houdini! I honestly don't know how he got out of the crate earlier in the week - the one space he created doesn't look even remotely close enough to big enough for him to squeeze through.
So, for safety sake (his) we've been letting him stay outside the crate during the day while we are at work. However, his love for chewing things is getting costly! I need to replace my 4th heating pad now. My favorite bedspread (an antique quilt) is shredded - as is a set of sheets, bed ruffle and actually the bed, the door to the bedroom needs painting, our one window shade has got... ahem... a few marks in it and we've lost countless socks, underwear and shoes. Whooo boy! I know I'm missing things, but it's better to forget...
Good thing he is so darn cute and the fact that he loves me best, makes it easier. Also, I love reminding my husband that part of the problem is HIS fault - because he didn't follow my directions regarding the crate while I was away at Scout Camp, and subsequently Herkimer got out a few times -- and as most doggie owners know that once they figure something out, they just try harder each time...
Anyway - he is doing GREAT on his obedience training! He understands the "look" command, which is used to keep his attention on me -- and he improves daily on actually following it as I increase the distractions while training. His sitz, plotz and hier (sit, down, come) are almost perfectly consistent and I'm getting a pretty good distance between us and he holds those positions. WHOO HOO!
We are now going to start taking him into places, like stores, since his response to commands are so good. I have to avoid anyplace that may have dogs because that is still a problem for him. We have been working on that really hard, and during class he is getting much better -- but I just don't have the strength to make a proper correction when he spontaneously lunges at another dog. Aja, the trainer, has taken him a few times and worked with him in class and then he responds better for me -- but since I can't take Aja with me everywhere I go... we need to find another way.
So, instead of buying the flash for my camera that I was going to get - I'm getting a professional E-Collar for Herkimer. That way my correction along with a proper E-Collar correction will get the same results and should hopefully get us through this issue. Aja will work with me on it once it comes in. We only have a few weeks before the class is over and we need to test for the Canine Good Citizen test -- the one thing I'm worried about is meeting dogs without reacting. Keep your fingers, and paws crossed that we can work this one out....
Once we cross that HUGE barrier (the being friendly with other doggie issue), we won't have to worry as much about leaving him alone at home - because then he can start coming with me every time we go out. Work is the only issue -- until the medical group that shares our office space moves, there is no place for Herkimer to be in the office. He can't be in the way of patients and that's exactly where he would be --- BUT, they are working on moving and then I'll have an office!
Progress is a beautiful thing....
So, for safety sake (his) we've been letting him stay outside the crate during the day while we are at work. However, his love for chewing things is getting costly! I need to replace my 4th heating pad now. My favorite bedspread (an antique quilt) is shredded - as is a set of sheets, bed ruffle and actually the bed, the door to the bedroom needs painting, our one window shade has got... ahem... a few marks in it and we've lost countless socks, underwear and shoes. Whooo boy! I know I'm missing things, but it's better to forget...
Good thing he is so darn cute and the fact that he loves me best, makes it easier. Also, I love reminding my husband that part of the problem is HIS fault - because he didn't follow my directions regarding the crate while I was away at Scout Camp, and subsequently Herkimer got out a few times -- and as most doggie owners know that once they figure something out, they just try harder each time...
Anyway - he is doing GREAT on his obedience training! He understands the "look" command, which is used to keep his attention on me -- and he improves daily on actually following it as I increase the distractions while training. His sitz, plotz and hier (sit, down, come) are almost perfectly consistent and I'm getting a pretty good distance between us and he holds those positions. WHOO HOO!
We are now going to start taking him into places, like stores, since his response to commands are so good. I have to avoid anyplace that may have dogs because that is still a problem for him. We have been working on that really hard, and during class he is getting much better -- but I just don't have the strength to make a proper correction when he spontaneously lunges at another dog. Aja, the trainer, has taken him a few times and worked with him in class and then he responds better for me -- but since I can't take Aja with me everywhere I go... we need to find another way.
So, instead of buying the flash for my camera that I was going to get - I'm getting a professional E-Collar for Herkimer. That way my correction along with a proper E-Collar correction will get the same results and should hopefully get us through this issue. Aja will work with me on it once it comes in. We only have a few weeks before the class is over and we need to test for the Canine Good Citizen test -- the one thing I'm worried about is meeting dogs without reacting. Keep your fingers, and paws crossed that we can work this one out....
Once we cross that HUGE barrier (the being friendly with other doggie issue), we won't have to worry as much about leaving him alone at home - because then he can start coming with me every time we go out. Work is the only issue -- until the medical group that shares our office space moves, there is no place for Herkimer to be in the office. He can't be in the way of patients and that's exactly where he would be --- BUT, they are working on moving and then I'll have an office!
Progress is a beautiful thing....
Tuesday, May 3, 2011
Excuses...
as to why I haven't posted! I was sick and then I got BUSY with Scouts... we have had two obedience classes since last post, and we are making progress.
He did great tonight even without actually working with Herkimer this week, since I was up at camp for a Scout Leader training. (WOW, was that fun - exhausting! but FUN).
When I get myself caught up a tad - and I can actually find my dining room table... I'll post more!
Cheers
He did great tonight even without actually working with Herkimer this week, since I was up at camp for a Scout Leader training. (WOW, was that fun - exhausting! but FUN).
When I get myself caught up a tad - and I can actually find my dining room table... I'll post more!
Cheers
Saturday, April 23, 2011
Cat Training...
No I don't mean training the cats -- boy do I wish... I'm working with Herkimer on leaving the cats alone.
This is going to be harder than it sounds because he is really gets all worked up, especially when a cat enters this side of the house. That would be on this side of the gate, which is Herkimer's side vs. the other side which is the cat's side. Of course anyone with any experience with cat's knows that they not only ignore all sense of boundaries - they relish the chance to push or just ignore them completely!!!
Dexter is our big challenge - but he actually is working out to be our opportunity for training. Dexter adopted us the previous winter when he got stuck on our porch in-between the 2 big snowstorms we got. The deep snow coupled with the snow from the roof blocked off any exit from the porch - so we fed him, kept him warm and naturally grew attached to him. Being an outside cat, he decided to stay around - so we eventually had him neutered (hubby calls it 'Brain Removal Surgery) and let him move in. Dexter still likes being outside, and every day (once or twice) he comes to the kitchen door to be let out. He used to come to the same door to be let back in, but with the dogs (we've been fostering at least one dog since December) he now goes to the front door and knocks.... yes knocks on the door. Quite insistently, I must add.
This is Dexter:
Despite the fact that Dexter is not real amused at being a doggie chase toy, he still insists on being let out from the kitchen door (which is on Herkimer's side). And as soon as Herkimer here's the telltale ka-thunk of Dexter jumping the gate, Herk runs to find him and Dexter runs to find a hiding spot. Either Dexter is better at blending in than I can tell or Herkimer isn't that great at locating him... but if/when Herk spots Dexter it's chaos! Poor Herkimer's nose has been beaten up so many times, you'd think he would have gotten the idea -- but NOOOOOO...
So Dexter makes it to either the dining room table or the cat-tree, where he may or may not be found -- then to the table and frog tank next to the door - where is almost definitely seen.
With the help of Aja, my trainer and a borrowed E-Collar, this pattern has made it helpful to set up a training action. It does go a bit off if I don't quite move fast enough when Dexter jumps the gate and Herk finds him right away. But mostly (so far) we have it down. As soon as Herkimer moves to look or go toward Dexter I call "HEIR" (come) and unless he immediately turns toward me, I give him a zap (it is not set high - don't worry, just enough for him to feel it, not cause a shriek or yelp). So far, we are pretty successful at getting him to follow the command and he comes to me right away. I've also used the 'nick' button (a nano-second of zap) with the "Leave it" command if he alerts to the cats either through the gate or he has just seen Dexter in the kitchen. He has that one almost down. His attention to "Leave it" at all times has now improved ten-fold. (I only use the E-collar when working/dealing with the cats).
There has been one time, so far, that I was able to get Herkimer into a Sitz(sit) and he stayed focused on me (or at least didn't budge from his sit) while Dexter walked by and went outside. That only happened once, but we always have good days and bad days during training and I've only been at it formally with the E-Collar for less than a week. I did also get Herkimer to follow me back and forth in front of the dining room table, with Dexter on it, while using the Heir command. That was impressive.
I see improvements everyday (and a few back steps) - but there is no doubt this is the path to correcting the "Cat Issue". Since it also seems to strengthen the Leave It command, and seems to make the Heir command better too - that's a nice plus during our other training. Time will tell.
I just know that it will be SOOO nice to be able to (one day) remove that gate and let Herkimer have access to the living room. He gets so upset when we sit in there to watch TV, sit in the massage chair or read, and he can't! But I do need to give the cats some chance of having time with us as well. The two other cats (who grew up with dogs) are totally peeved at this new dog thing and won't even show their faces anymore on the Herkimer side. They used to sneak down at night, when Herk is in his kennel and snuggle with me on the bed, but they don't anymore... (pout).
This is going to be harder than it sounds because he is really gets all worked up, especially when a cat enters this side of the house. That would be on this side of the gate, which is Herkimer's side vs. the other side which is the cat's side. Of course anyone with any experience with cat's knows that they not only ignore all sense of boundaries - they relish the chance to push or just ignore them completely!!!
Dexter is our big challenge - but he actually is working out to be our opportunity for training. Dexter adopted us the previous winter when he got stuck on our porch in-between the 2 big snowstorms we got. The deep snow coupled with the snow from the roof blocked off any exit from the porch - so we fed him, kept him warm and naturally grew attached to him. Being an outside cat, he decided to stay around - so we eventually had him neutered (hubby calls it 'Brain Removal Surgery) and let him move in. Dexter still likes being outside, and every day (once or twice) he comes to the kitchen door to be let out. He used to come to the same door to be let back in, but with the dogs (we've been fostering at least one dog since December) he now goes to the front door and knocks.... yes knocks on the door. Quite insistently, I must add.
This is Dexter:
Despite the fact that Dexter is not real amused at being a doggie chase toy, he still insists on being let out from the kitchen door (which is on Herkimer's side). And as soon as Herkimer here's the telltale ka-thunk of Dexter jumping the gate, Herk runs to find him and Dexter runs to find a hiding spot. Either Dexter is better at blending in than I can tell or Herkimer isn't that great at locating him... but if/when Herk spots Dexter it's chaos! Poor Herkimer's nose has been beaten up so many times, you'd think he would have gotten the idea -- but NOOOOOO...
So Dexter makes it to either the dining room table or the cat-tree, where he may or may not be found -- then to the table and frog tank next to the door - where is almost definitely seen.
With the help of Aja, my trainer and a borrowed E-Collar, this pattern has made it helpful to set up a training action. It does go a bit off if I don't quite move fast enough when Dexter jumps the gate and Herk finds him right away. But mostly (so far) we have it down. As soon as Herkimer moves to look or go toward Dexter I call "HEIR" (come) and unless he immediately turns toward me, I give him a zap (it is not set high - don't worry, just enough for him to feel it, not cause a shriek or yelp). So far, we are pretty successful at getting him to follow the command and he comes to me right away. I've also used the 'nick' button (a nano-second of zap) with the "Leave it" command if he alerts to the cats either through the gate or he has just seen Dexter in the kitchen. He has that one almost down. His attention to "Leave it" at all times has now improved ten-fold. (I only use the E-collar when working/dealing with the cats).
There has been one time, so far, that I was able to get Herkimer into a Sitz(sit) and he stayed focused on me (or at least didn't budge from his sit) while Dexter walked by and went outside. That only happened once, but we always have good days and bad days during training and I've only been at it formally with the E-Collar for less than a week. I did also get Herkimer to follow me back and forth in front of the dining room table, with Dexter on it, while using the Heir command. That was impressive.
I see improvements everyday (and a few back steps) - but there is no doubt this is the path to correcting the "Cat Issue". Since it also seems to strengthen the Leave It command, and seems to make the Heir command better too - that's a nice plus during our other training. Time will tell.
I just know that it will be SOOO nice to be able to (one day) remove that gate and let Herkimer have access to the living room. He gets so upset when we sit in there to watch TV, sit in the massage chair or read, and he can't! But I do need to give the cats some chance of having time with us as well. The two other cats (who grew up with dogs) are totally peeved at this new dog thing and won't even show their faces anymore on the Herkimer side. They used to sneak down at night, when Herk is in his kennel and snuggle with me on the bed, but they don't anymore... (pout).
Here is a picture of Herkimer sporting his new borrowed E-Collar:
And here is a picture of Herkimer being... well a puppy!
Tuesday, April 19, 2011
And We Have Progress... sorta!
Welllll, Mr. Sir Herkimer escaped his kennel today and pooped on the bed... AGAIN, today! Argh!
He did however, almost make up for it in obedience class tonight -- it would have taken him walking on water to actually make up for the poop on the bed ;). We've been practicing the heel (foos) all week and making splendid progress, so tonight Aja showed me the next step which instead of leading Herk into the proper position with a treat, you get him to sit(sitz) directly in front of you and step into him, making him move around into Foos position. Good Ol' Herk got it right away! I even got him to do the little butt flip thing that Aja's dog does -- a few times... I was sooooo excited. He excelled at the extended stay during a sitz and down (plotz). And did really well while I greeted a person (Aja of course), while Herkimer remained in the Foos position. The second round she pet him and the third she touched his ears and feet - all the while him maintaining the Foos position. WOO HOO!! I was so proud.
There was even a smidgeon of progress on his, ahem... doggie eating behavior... when we arrived, I verbally warned the other couple to gather their dog and as soon as Herkimer put his head into the room he started to alert and bark. I immediately put him in a Plotz and rolled him over into a neutral, submissive side position - held him for a second or two and then we were able to make a large loop around the other dog with Herkimer focusing on me (most of the time!). And during the class loose leash work, he was simply in a Plotz or I had him with his back to the crowd and looking at me the whole time. That was pretty impressive. Aja still had to walk him out after class, but it was easier for her to get him under control this time. I really can NOT believe how much progress we have made in 2 group lessons. Amazing!!
All of the dogs have made amazing progress - Herkimer is not the only smart one~ just the most handsome (in my opinion).
Herkimer and the cats are still having issues... I borrowed an E-Collar from a friend and Aja gave me some instructions, Herkimer picked up the process very quickly - we are not anywhere near corrected yet, but every bit helps. Although I think I'd prefer to put the E-Collar on the one cat as he really is instigating the trouble. He sashays his butt across the front yard, just out of Herkimer's reach and I then can't get Herk to focus on the potty business. UGH! Dexter (the cat) will also jump over the gate and then back over the gate -- like a ping-pong ball. Bleepidy, Bleeping Cats! Grrrrrrrrrr...
Okay, dinner is on the table... so gotta go! :)
He did however, almost make up for it in obedience class tonight -- it would have taken him walking on water to actually make up for the poop on the bed ;). We've been practicing the heel (foos) all week and making splendid progress, so tonight Aja showed me the next step which instead of leading Herk into the proper position with a treat, you get him to sit(sitz) directly in front of you and step into him, making him move around into Foos position. Good Ol' Herk got it right away! I even got him to do the little butt flip thing that Aja's dog does -- a few times... I was sooooo excited. He excelled at the extended stay during a sitz and down (plotz). And did really well while I greeted a person (Aja of course), while Herkimer remained in the Foos position. The second round she pet him and the third she touched his ears and feet - all the while him maintaining the Foos position. WOO HOO!! I was so proud.
There was even a smidgeon of progress on his, ahem... doggie eating behavior... when we arrived, I verbally warned the other couple to gather their dog and as soon as Herkimer put his head into the room he started to alert and bark. I immediately put him in a Plotz and rolled him over into a neutral, submissive side position - held him for a second or two and then we were able to make a large loop around the other dog with Herkimer focusing on me (most of the time!). And during the class loose leash work, he was simply in a Plotz or I had him with his back to the crowd and looking at me the whole time. That was pretty impressive. Aja still had to walk him out after class, but it was easier for her to get him under control this time. I really can NOT believe how much progress we have made in 2 group lessons. Amazing!!
All of the dogs have made amazing progress - Herkimer is not the only smart one~ just the most handsome (in my opinion).
Herkimer and the cats are still having issues... I borrowed an E-Collar from a friend and Aja gave me some instructions, Herkimer picked up the process very quickly - we are not anywhere near corrected yet, but every bit helps. Although I think I'd prefer to put the E-Collar on the one cat as he really is instigating the trouble. He sashays his butt across the front yard, just out of Herkimer's reach and I then can't get Herk to focus on the potty business. UGH! Dexter (the cat) will also jump over the gate and then back over the gate -- like a ping-pong ball. Bleepidy, Bleeping Cats! Grrrrrrrrrr...
Okay, dinner is on the table... so gotta go! :)
Tuesday, April 12, 2011
First Obedience Class
Wellll.... Sir Herkimer, was more like a poo-poo head Herkimer when greeting the other dogs tonight. He growled and lunged and just made a situation! ACK! What happened to that sweet pup that Greta played with and happily met a few friends dogs???? Apparently, he has settled in and decided he is not sure about other dogs anymore. Good Grief!
BUT, that is okey dokey - isn't that what lessons are for??? Other then walking in and passing the other dogs, Herkimer worked beautifully. We practiced our sit (sitz), down (plotz), come (heir), look - and he did wonderfully, even with the distraction of the other dogs! But during the walking on loose leashes, Aja had Herkimer in a plotz/stay and I held his leash with my foot and grabbed his scruff whenever he tried to alert to the other dogs when they came near. Practice and patience... We are learning heel (foos), which is actually more of a getting into position command first -- unfortunately it also takes.. um... coordination. Something I'm not sure I ever had... But despite the obstacles Herkimer had to overcome with my lack of grace, he did pretty good. His worst command is look, and you need that one for Foos - so that will occupy most of our homework practice this week.
I had borrowed a ramp to get Herkimer into my truck, as he doesn't like getting into the car - and he is FAR to heavy to pick-up. But he will climb the ramp just fine, which my back appreciates! After class he went outside and jumped right on in the back. Not one ounce of hesitation -- hmmm... was he done with obedience class?? I'm thinking so!
He is currently laying under the table near my feet, snoring away. I think we wore him out! YEAH
Oh, and here is a picture of Sir Herkimer - with his ears UP...
BUT, that is okey dokey - isn't that what lessons are for??? Other then walking in and passing the other dogs, Herkimer worked beautifully. We practiced our sit (sitz), down (plotz), come (heir), look - and he did wonderfully, even with the distraction of the other dogs! But during the walking on loose leashes, Aja had Herkimer in a plotz/stay and I held his leash with my foot and grabbed his scruff whenever he tried to alert to the other dogs when they came near. Practice and patience... We are learning heel (foos), which is actually more of a getting into position command first -- unfortunately it also takes.. um... coordination. Something I'm not sure I ever had... But despite the obstacles Herkimer had to overcome with my lack of grace, he did pretty good. His worst command is look, and you need that one for Foos - so that will occupy most of our homework practice this week.
I had borrowed a ramp to get Herkimer into my truck, as he doesn't like getting into the car - and he is FAR to heavy to pick-up. But he will climb the ramp just fine, which my back appreciates! After class he went outside and jumped right on in the back. Not one ounce of hesitation -- hmmm... was he done with obedience class?? I'm thinking so!
He is currently laying under the table near my feet, snoring away. I think we wore him out! YEAH
Oh, and here is a picture of Sir Herkimer - with his ears UP...
Such a handsome devil... and yes he will grow into those ears! :)
Saturday, April 9, 2011
It's Been an Interesting Week
It started with a kennel escape... a HUGE poop on the bed and Herkimer hanging out in the son's bedroom, after I'm sure he scared the bejesus out of the cats! What a mess! Then he managed to slide the tray of the kennel out of the bottom - AFTER he pooped in it! Oh, poop everywhere... My son had to take him out and hose him down ~~ peew, and I spent an entire day scrubbing and mopping floors. Aren't dogs fun??
I was obviously thrilled that his obedience classes started this week, until I learned that the first week is orientation... without dogs! Oh well, we had fun talking about him anyway.
He has actually learned wait and is getting pretty good at it. I asked the trainer how important the sit and down positioning really is... does he have to sit perfectly erect and lay down with his legs back -- 'cause Herkimer is a more casual guy. He sits beautifully (but lopsided), and his down (or plotz) is fantastic - but it's probably more a plops. :) He does know drop it and leave it; and as directed at him when he is fixating on the cats ~ he will turn around - but then go right back to the stare down. Herk currently has a big lump on his right cheek from one cat (it's been cleaned and dressed), but that has not slowed his obsessive desire to chase them. He doesn't do anything when he catches them, but bark and get wholloped by them. Who knows what goes on in their heads.
He made a big hit at the vet this week. We had a general check up and meet the vet visit - which turned up a UTI, so I'm glad I went. Anyway, everyone just adored him and was amazed at his size and calmness. He has turned into a noble looking handsome devil now that his ears have decided to stand straight up. You may now call him... Sir Herkimer, if you please. The general consensus is he is Shepherd/Dane mix. (although, a few votes for Mastif) - either way...BIG and beautiful.
He is currently laying at my feet trying to sleep, but he has rested his head on a new squeeky toy snake and every time he starts to drift off totally, he presses the squeeker and wakes himself up. I'm curious to see how long it takes him to move his head off the toy -- it's been 20 minutes at least. Such a goof!!
I have to upload updated pictures, I thought I already did - but I can't find them... I wonder what it's like to be organized ?!?!?
I was obviously thrilled that his obedience classes started this week, until I learned that the first week is orientation... without dogs! Oh well, we had fun talking about him anyway.
He has actually learned wait and is getting pretty good at it. I asked the trainer how important the sit and down positioning really is... does he have to sit perfectly erect and lay down with his legs back -- 'cause Herkimer is a more casual guy. He sits beautifully (but lopsided), and his down (or plotz) is fantastic - but it's probably more a plops. :) He does know drop it and leave it; and as directed at him when he is fixating on the cats ~ he will turn around - but then go right back to the stare down. Herk currently has a big lump on his right cheek from one cat (it's been cleaned and dressed), but that has not slowed his obsessive desire to chase them. He doesn't do anything when he catches them, but bark and get wholloped by them. Who knows what goes on in their heads.
He made a big hit at the vet this week. We had a general check up and meet the vet visit - which turned up a UTI, so I'm glad I went. Anyway, everyone just adored him and was amazed at his size and calmness. He has turned into a noble looking handsome devil now that his ears have decided to stand straight up. You may now call him... Sir Herkimer, if you please. The general consensus is he is Shepherd/Dane mix. (although, a few votes for Mastif) - either way...BIG and beautiful.
He is currently laying at my feet trying to sleep, but he has rested his head on a new squeeky toy snake and every time he starts to drift off totally, he presses the squeeker and wakes himself up. I'm curious to see how long it takes him to move his head off the toy -- it's been 20 minutes at least. Such a goof!!
I have to upload updated pictures, I thought I already did - but I can't find them... I wonder what it's like to be organized ?!?!?
Friday, April 1, 2011
And Finally....
He has arrived!! In all his hugeness... Herkimer! Yes that is what we named him, as we are in process of adopting this lug of a dog. I'll leave the explanation of his name for a little bit - so if you want you can guess... I'll give a hint - it's a strange but funny (and I must admit, good) B-Movie reference, although very appropriate.
To update on "Her Cuteness", she was adopted this past Saturday - and it was a lovely fit! She will be pampered and loved as she should. Now I have the dubious job of un-training some of her cuteness' less wonderful behaviors that Herkimer picked up... I'm hoping he at least instilled some of his on her :o
Isn't he just darling?... and yes he still needs to grow into those ears and FEET! We have him estimated at approximately 6 1/2 months (based on the trainers evaluation) and he weighed in at 61lbs last night! WOW!
We will be starting basic obedience training next week. Although I need to buy a new leash before class starts - Her Cuteness ate my REALLY nice leather lead, and Herkimer finished off the two remaining leashes, including the double leash he is wearing in this picture. Right now we are taking him out on our 20 foot training lead. Gah! A kazillion chew toys and he prefers the leads - oh and my socks, um... shoes, hubbies long pants (don't get THAT one).
I've been taking him for walks, and his natural position when we go out is almost right at the proper heel position. He doesn't pull or even get ahead of me. (doing the happy dance) Our usual walk is down the backroad (wooded) that I live off and up to the main road which is 3/10th of a mile away. He takes everything in, but so far, doesn't take too much interest in all the sounds. Of course we haven't come across a squirrel yet... When we get close to the road and all the noise, his ears swivel in all directions and he gets excited. Right now we just stop at the road, he goes in a sit and we watch the traffic. He is a bit nervous about the traffic running by, so I pet and snuggle with him. We take in about 5 minutes and head back. Eventually we'll head up that road (it has a huge shoulder), but not until I'm sure he won't panic with all those cars. Introduce him gently. Besides, by the time we get back (and if you do the math, it's only 6/10th of a mile) - I don't want him to 'heel' I want him to PULL. I'm SOOOO out of shape, and he is bouncing around like, come on Mom lets do it again.... (so I've enlisted my son to help with extra walkings....)
I think the obedience classes will be fantastic for both of us. And by the time we are done, we can test for the Maryland Canine Good Citizen test. That is the required certification you need for therapy dogs, there isn't one technically for service dogs - but it will be a good thing to have.
I really can't believe how much he is growing! His ears are probably going to be erect, the right ear is always up and the left is trying to decide. I secretly hope we have some ear floppage - it is soo cute, but when both ears are up he looks totally different. My son called him noble -- so maybe we'll have to call him Sir Herkimer if they do stay up.
This is a recent picture of the me and my buddy -- and that finicky left ear. How can you now love that face!! His previous foster said he was German Shepherd/Mastif mix -- whoo boy! I was thinking maybe Dane, but either way... he will be BIG. I may actually be able to ride him...
Taking him to restaurants could be interesting... Yes, can we have a table for 6? 3 for my family, and 3 for Herkimer!! I can't wait until we start training. And I need to order a Service Dog in Training Vest, so we can really start going out on the town! We take him out somewhere at least a couple times a week, mostly hubby or my son will keep him outside the stores because he still is young. But we go to my husbands Mom's every Wednesday for dinner and she just loves him. We do have to work on the elevator - he is terrified of it! But we have weekly visits and the more we go, the better he will get.
So work in progress... stay tuned, I'll keep this up to date as we move through the training. (with pictures)
To update on "Her Cuteness", she was adopted this past Saturday - and it was a lovely fit! She will be pampered and loved as she should. Now I have the dubious job of un-training some of her cuteness' less wonderful behaviors that Herkimer picked up... I'm hoping he at least instilled some of his on her :o
We will be starting basic obedience training next week. Although I need to buy a new leash before class starts - Her Cuteness ate my REALLY nice leather lead, and Herkimer finished off the two remaining leashes, including the double leash he is wearing in this picture. Right now we are taking him out on our 20 foot training lead. Gah! A kazillion chew toys and he prefers the leads - oh and my socks, um... shoes, hubbies long pants (don't get THAT one).
I've been taking him for walks, and his natural position when we go out is almost right at the proper heel position. He doesn't pull or even get ahead of me. (doing the happy dance) Our usual walk is down the backroad (wooded) that I live off and up to the main road which is 3/10th of a mile away. He takes everything in, but so far, doesn't take too much interest in all the sounds. Of course we haven't come across a squirrel yet... When we get close to the road and all the noise, his ears swivel in all directions and he gets excited. Right now we just stop at the road, he goes in a sit and we watch the traffic. He is a bit nervous about the traffic running by, so I pet and snuggle with him. We take in about 5 minutes and head back. Eventually we'll head up that road (it has a huge shoulder), but not until I'm sure he won't panic with all those cars. Introduce him gently. Besides, by the time we get back (and if you do the math, it's only 6/10th of a mile) - I don't want him to 'heel' I want him to PULL. I'm SOOOO out of shape, and he is bouncing around like, come on Mom lets do it again.... (so I've enlisted my son to help with extra walkings....)
I think the obedience classes will be fantastic for both of us. And by the time we are done, we can test for the Maryland Canine Good Citizen test. That is the required certification you need for therapy dogs, there isn't one technically for service dogs - but it will be a good thing to have.
I really can't believe how much he is growing! His ears are probably going to be erect, the right ear is always up and the left is trying to decide. I secretly hope we have some ear floppage - it is soo cute, but when both ears are up he looks totally different. My son called him noble -- so maybe we'll have to call him Sir Herkimer if they do stay up.
This is a recent picture of the me and my buddy -- and that finicky left ear. How can you now love that face!! His previous foster said he was German Shepherd/Mastif mix -- whoo boy! I was thinking maybe Dane, but either way... he will be BIG. I may actually be able to ride him...
Taking him to restaurants could be interesting... Yes, can we have a table for 6? 3 for my family, and 3 for Herkimer!! I can't wait until we start training. And I need to order a Service Dog in Training Vest, so we can really start going out on the town! We take him out somewhere at least a couple times a week, mostly hubby or my son will keep him outside the stores because he still is young. But we go to my husbands Mom's every Wednesday for dinner and she just loves him. We do have to work on the elevator - he is terrified of it! But we have weekly visits and the more we go, the better he will get.
So work in progress... stay tuned, I'll keep this up to date as we move through the training. (with pictures)
Thursday, March 24, 2011
Bringing it up-to-date....
There has been quite a bit going on so it's a good time to just catch up on all that's been happening!
Phoenix was moved to be fostered with one of the trainers that works with the rescue group, and it couldn't be a better place for him. The updates that I received are that he is doing great.
Phoenix did settle in nicely with us and bonded quite quickly to my husband. Following the trainers advice, we worked regularly on controlling the home environment closely, so he learned that we were in charge and that it was okay - we could keep him safe. Meeting new people became less stressful, but we couldn't seem to get past the driveway as the meeting spot. If he heard or saw anyone close to the house he alerted and couldn't be calmed down. His comfort level in going to new places improved as well. Phoenix and I went to a whole bunch of parking lots and visited the quiet back corners of them. We'd walk around and practice heel, sit, down or whatever - sometimes we just sat and ate lunch. But again, we got to a level and just couldn't get past it.
All it would take was one little slip in the routine and he would revert back a few steps. Unfortunately - we were/are just not experienced enough to really get him to the adoptable stages. Although, we loved having him with us - we couldn't move forward with getting a service dog, or even fostering another dog for the rescue. While he is fine with dogs in his other homes, once he accepted our home as HIS home, he was not as welcome to the canine visitors either.
I do want to stress that the trainer he is with is excellent! My personal trainer - who is helping me with my quest for a service dog, highly recommended her and her methods. So given some time, Phoenix will finally become the dog his heart wants to be and be able to find his forever home.
Not too long after Phoenix moved to his next home, we brought in a fluffy bundle of absolute cuteness! She was a 4 month old Shepherd mix (possibly with Sheltie) and just gosh darn cute!!! It was quite a culture shock to go from older, more reserved dogs to a wiggly bundle of AAAHHHH! She is everywhere at once - but... "awwww, look at her, isn't she cute...." is the mantra around the house.
She caused accidents at the local PetSmart (people - not cars). Random patrons would screech to a halt and gush at her adorableness and then the person behind them would crash into them -- but before they could be mad, they got a look at 'Her Cuteness'. The sales people rushed to help us find anything and everything. We must have had 4 sales staff trying to help pick out just the right color of harness for her -- I don't think I've EVER seen 4 sales people on the floor of the pet stores! Sheesh!
Greta (or more accurately, "Her Cuteness") is pretty smart for a know-it-all puppy and pretty soon we had sit, down and even wait working pretty good. Being on a harness, due to her size - there isn't much in the way of leash manners, but she loves going for walks. She'll practically skip and bounce ahead and then come running back to make sure she hasn't lost me. Oh - and she surprisingly learned "Leave it" and "Drop it" on her very first walk. I had to give up all hope of wiping her paws before entering the house... (of COURSE she jumped and splashed in every puddle and then ran through all the mud she could find). "But awwwww, aren't those little puppy paw-prints so cute?? Look at the pattern they made on my husbands pillow!" ~~~ just for the record, he didn't think they were all that cute (cue the eye-roll).
She is way too small for a potential service dog candidate, but that didn't stop me from plotting all kinds of different ways of working her into the "grand scheme" and asking to adopt her... her cuteness just overwhelms you! I must have typed 1/2 dozen e-mails to the adoption coordinator and then deleted them before hitting send, because I knew it was not the right fit... but I just couldn't help myself!
Resistance is Futile....
She is like the Death Star with a Tractor Beam of Cuteness that you just can't escape! But finally, all that difficult self control I exerted (which to those that know me, I don't actually possess) came to fruition -- almost immediately after yet another delete from an e-mail discussion with the Adoption Coordinator, I got this picture of a new foster that was coming my way..... It was like divine intervention! Or maybe just a direct hit from an asteroid trying to beat it in my head that she was not meant for me, either way it worked! (And the bruising has gone down now).
Kaden, a monster of a dog (as in size) was heading my way - and this picture showed him sprawled across the lap of his then foster mom. He is HUGE and while not cute, nobody is as cute as "Her Cuteness", he is beautiful! Yes, he is a boy, but beautiful and magnificent are appropriate descriptions.
The date of his arrival was beginning to get close and that anticipation was beginning to overpower the cuteness. The descriptions of his personality were trickling in from the foster mom and it was sounding good. Even though he is only 6 months (and my trainer really tried to instill the fear of "NO Puppies"), he has the presence of an older dog. I hoped that was true -- which, I'll give you a sneak peak... is totally true.
So on that long winded note.... I'll pause here. (Aren't I evil?)
Phoenix was moved to be fostered with one of the trainers that works with the rescue group, and it couldn't be a better place for him. The updates that I received are that he is doing great.
Phoenix did settle in nicely with us and bonded quite quickly to my husband. Following the trainers advice, we worked regularly on controlling the home environment closely, so he learned that we were in charge and that it was okay - we could keep him safe. Meeting new people became less stressful, but we couldn't seem to get past the driveway as the meeting spot. If he heard or saw anyone close to the house he alerted and couldn't be calmed down. His comfort level in going to new places improved as well. Phoenix and I went to a whole bunch of parking lots and visited the quiet back corners of them. We'd walk around and practice heel, sit, down or whatever - sometimes we just sat and ate lunch. But again, we got to a level and just couldn't get past it.
All it would take was one little slip in the routine and he would revert back a few steps. Unfortunately - we were/are just not experienced enough to really get him to the adoptable stages. Although, we loved having him with us - we couldn't move forward with getting a service dog, or even fostering another dog for the rescue. While he is fine with dogs in his other homes, once he accepted our home as HIS home, he was not as welcome to the canine visitors either.
I do want to stress that the trainer he is with is excellent! My personal trainer - who is helping me with my quest for a service dog, highly recommended her and her methods. So given some time, Phoenix will finally become the dog his heart wants to be and be able to find his forever home.
Not too long after Phoenix moved to his next home, we brought in a fluffy bundle of absolute cuteness! She was a 4 month old Shepherd mix (possibly with Sheltie) and just gosh darn cute!!! It was quite a culture shock to go from older, more reserved dogs to a wiggly bundle of AAAHHHH! She is everywhere at once - but... "awwww, look at her, isn't she cute...." is the mantra around the house.
She caused accidents at the local PetSmart (people - not cars). Random patrons would screech to a halt and gush at her adorableness and then the person behind them would crash into them -- but before they could be mad, they got a look at 'Her Cuteness'. The sales people rushed to help us find anything and everything. We must have had 4 sales staff trying to help pick out just the right color of harness for her -- I don't think I've EVER seen 4 sales people on the floor of the pet stores! Sheesh!
Greta (or more accurately, "Her Cuteness") is pretty smart for a know-it-all puppy and pretty soon we had sit, down and even wait working pretty good. Being on a harness, due to her size - there isn't much in the way of leash manners, but she loves going for walks. She'll practically skip and bounce ahead and then come running back to make sure she hasn't lost me. Oh - and she surprisingly learned "Leave it" and "Drop it" on her very first walk. I had to give up all hope of wiping her paws before entering the house... (of COURSE she jumped and splashed in every puddle and then ran through all the mud she could find). "But awwwww, aren't those little puppy paw-prints so cute?? Look at the pattern they made on my husbands pillow!" ~~~ just for the record, he didn't think they were all that cute (cue the eye-roll).
She is way too small for a potential service dog candidate, but that didn't stop me from plotting all kinds of different ways of working her into the "grand scheme" and asking to adopt her... her cuteness just overwhelms you! I must have typed 1/2 dozen e-mails to the adoption coordinator and then deleted them before hitting send, because I knew it was not the right fit... but I just couldn't help myself!
Resistance is Futile....She is like the Death Star with a Tractor Beam of Cuteness that you just can't escape! But finally, all that difficult self control I exerted (which to those that know me, I don't actually possess) came to fruition -- almost immediately after yet another delete from an e-mail discussion with the Adoption Coordinator, I got this picture of a new foster that was coming my way..... It was like divine intervention! Or maybe just a direct hit from an asteroid trying to beat it in my head that she was not meant for me, either way it worked! (And the bruising has gone down now).
Kaden, a monster of a dog (as in size) was heading my way - and this picture showed him sprawled across the lap of his then foster mom. He is HUGE and while not cute, nobody is as cute as "Her Cuteness", he is beautiful! Yes, he is a boy, but beautiful and magnificent are appropriate descriptions.
The date of his arrival was beginning to get close and that anticipation was beginning to overpower the cuteness. The descriptions of his personality were trickling in from the foster mom and it was sounding good. Even though he is only 6 months (and my trainer really tried to instill the fear of "NO Puppies"), he has the presence of an older dog. I hoped that was true -- which, I'll give you a sneak peak... is totally true.
So on that long winded note.... I'll pause here. (Aren't I evil?)
Tuesday, February 15, 2011
Progress...
At least for today! But today, Phoenix was soooo awesome I just had to post.
First we had the best meet/greet EVER! My cleaning lady was coming over so we went for introductions. We were walking down the ramp when she pulled in the driveway. (All people greetings are conducted on 'neutral ground' - AKA the driveway). He was excited to meet her before she got out of the car. (normally he is cautious of new people in the yard - well anywhere).
He didn't express any of his normal wary behaviors; no raised hair on his back, no stiffening, no timidness... just a wagging tail, lolling tongue and a calm exterior. We played it safe, obviously, in case I was reading him wrong. She got out of the car, talked to me - ignoring Phoenix. Then said Hi Phoenix, threw a treat and we moved forward while she gave a treat or two every time he listened to my sit command. He was probably more excited for the treats, but he took to her just fine. He smelled her big bucket of cleaning things and then we moved inside. Again, where before he would throw off a more protective stance once inside, there was nothing but calm. He even listened to her and did a sit, down and shake. She was petrified, but Phoenix didn't even pick up on that as a concern. I was so excited.
We didn't stay, I wasn't sure how he'd respond to the cleaning and I didn't want to mess up such a nice welcoming of a new person into the house.
So we went and did another activity we do to work on Phoenix's anxieties. We drove around, found a parking lot without much activity going on, parked and got out. Normally he LOVES getting in the car but is scared to get out. We've been doing little short uneventful visits all over the place for the last week or two, but until today he showed no progress. Anyway, when I opened the back he was ready to get out... woohoo. Then we did a pretty good approximation of a heel around the back of the parking lot. There were cars that passed, but we were too far for people and Phoenix didn't even give the cars much notice. He didn't whine and listened to all my commands. When we got close to the car he started pulling to get back in - but not until then.
Again it was awesome.
I know, patience and repetition are the key - but somedays when you've been working on the same things again, and again, and again you start to wonder if your getting anywhere. Then out of the blue... TaaDaa!
So there was my wonderful day with Phoenix! :)
First we had the best meet/greet EVER! My cleaning lady was coming over so we went for introductions. We were walking down the ramp when she pulled in the driveway. (All people greetings are conducted on 'neutral ground' - AKA the driveway). He was excited to meet her before she got out of the car. (normally he is cautious of new people in the yard - well anywhere).
He didn't express any of his normal wary behaviors; no raised hair on his back, no stiffening, no timidness... just a wagging tail, lolling tongue and a calm exterior. We played it safe, obviously, in case I was reading him wrong. She got out of the car, talked to me - ignoring Phoenix. Then said Hi Phoenix, threw a treat and we moved forward while she gave a treat or two every time he listened to my sit command. He was probably more excited for the treats, but he took to her just fine. He smelled her big bucket of cleaning things and then we moved inside. Again, where before he would throw off a more protective stance once inside, there was nothing but calm. He even listened to her and did a sit, down and shake. She was petrified, but Phoenix didn't even pick up on that as a concern. I was so excited.
We didn't stay, I wasn't sure how he'd respond to the cleaning and I didn't want to mess up such a nice welcoming of a new person into the house.
So we went and did another activity we do to work on Phoenix's anxieties. We drove around, found a parking lot without much activity going on, parked and got out. Normally he LOVES getting in the car but is scared to get out. We've been doing little short uneventful visits all over the place for the last week or two, but until today he showed no progress. Anyway, when I opened the back he was ready to get out... woohoo. Then we did a pretty good approximation of a heel around the back of the parking lot. There were cars that passed, but we were too far for people and Phoenix didn't even give the cars much notice. He didn't whine and listened to all my commands. When we got close to the car he started pulling to get back in - but not until then.
Again it was awesome.
I know, patience and repetition are the key - but somedays when you've been working on the same things again, and again, and again you start to wonder if your getting anywhere. Then out of the blue... TaaDaa!
So there was my wonderful day with Phoenix! :)
Saturday, February 12, 2011
Phoenix Update...
Wow, has it been that long since I posted??? We've been up and down and up and down with dearest Phoenix!
Phoenix is not liking not being the Alpha of the house... we have made great strides, setting limits on him so he understands who is in charge. Without other dogs in the house, however, he is technically the bottom of the pile - and not liking it... so what is he doing?? Trying to turn my cats into subordinates! LOL - it's kinda funny to see him try to 'get them in line', and then yap at them when they jump UP onto something... away from his reach.
The cats have figured out this game and two of them are toying with him. We now separate as much as possible for our own sanity and Phoenix'.
As far as playtime, he is slowly figuring out that dropping the ball gets us to throw it again, although this is still a work in progress. You can see the goings on in his eyes - "do I give in and drop it? or keep it for myself?" When he is battling those decisions, we don't command him to do anything, but then he wanders around wondering what to do with this ball in his mouth. After a few turns in the yard he heads back our way, we say drop it, and he does (reluctantly - but he does it). This one will take time, as he learns how much more fun it is to let us throw it for him to chase, rather than hold onto it.
He will eventually do well with a frisbee. He has an amazing ability to catch in mid-air, and he loved the frisbee. The frisbee became an obsession with him, so we had to stow it for a while until he is more comfortable 'sharing'. Phoenix has also found that toys other than balls were fun, too. He has a kong and a rope toy that he loves running around the house with. At first, he just took the toy, dropped it and looked at us like, "what am I supposed to do with that??".
People greeting is status quo. All meetings occur in the driveway and then a gradual move to the house. He handles females much easier than men. But the process hasn't moved forward, yet.
Phoenix is very fearful of new places still. We have taken him to so many parking lots (without people, noise or other distractions), just to get out, walk around and get back in the car. Figuring that after enough uneventful trips he would settle some - but so far no luck. He does however love to get into the car, just not out of it. I had to stop walking him to my car in the morning when I started it and let it warm up -- he was just so disappointed he wasn't getting in, I felt terrible.
He has settled into the routine, which unfortunately he is now trying to buck. Now that he is more comfortable he is trying to test everything. He is a very smart dog.
My husband is his absolute favorite. Despite the fact that I feed him, play with him and work with him the most (we all share the walking) - hubby has come out on top... BIG TIME. Phoenix goes NUTS when 'Daddy' leaves the house. Whines and paces and whines some more. We were all playing in the side yard today and 'Daddy' walked around the corner of the house and Phoenix dropped the ball and followed as far as he could and just sat down. That was it - game over. Sheesh, I felt like chopped liver!
I did however get to have a wonderful evening home with Phoenix. Hubby and my son went out to dinner and a concert and we stayed in... I ate cake, ice-cream and a big glass of milk for dinner and watched movies. I was watching a scary movie (no one else will watch them with me), and I think Phoenix sensed my tension 'cause he came into the living room and laid down at my feet. He snuggled and wiggled under my bare feet, and I felt loved! Although, it was probably that he was missing the boys.... but I'm going to pretend he wanted to be with me :p
Phoenix is not liking not being the Alpha of the house... we have made great strides, setting limits on him so he understands who is in charge. Without other dogs in the house, however, he is technically the bottom of the pile - and not liking it... so what is he doing?? Trying to turn my cats into subordinates! LOL - it's kinda funny to see him try to 'get them in line', and then yap at them when they jump UP onto something... away from his reach.
The cats have figured out this game and two of them are toying with him. We now separate as much as possible for our own sanity and Phoenix'.
As far as playtime, he is slowly figuring out that dropping the ball gets us to throw it again, although this is still a work in progress. You can see the goings on in his eyes - "do I give in and drop it? or keep it for myself?" When he is battling those decisions, we don't command him to do anything, but then he wanders around wondering what to do with this ball in his mouth. After a few turns in the yard he heads back our way, we say drop it, and he does (reluctantly - but he does it). This one will take time, as he learns how much more fun it is to let us throw it for him to chase, rather than hold onto it.
He will eventually do well with a frisbee. He has an amazing ability to catch in mid-air, and he loved the frisbee. The frisbee became an obsession with him, so we had to stow it for a while until he is more comfortable 'sharing'. Phoenix has also found that toys other than balls were fun, too. He has a kong and a rope toy that he loves running around the house with. At first, he just took the toy, dropped it and looked at us like, "what am I supposed to do with that??".
People greeting is status quo. All meetings occur in the driveway and then a gradual move to the house. He handles females much easier than men. But the process hasn't moved forward, yet.
Phoenix is very fearful of new places still. We have taken him to so many parking lots (without people, noise or other distractions), just to get out, walk around and get back in the car. Figuring that after enough uneventful trips he would settle some - but so far no luck. He does however love to get into the car, just not out of it. I had to stop walking him to my car in the morning when I started it and let it warm up -- he was just so disappointed he wasn't getting in, I felt terrible.
He has settled into the routine, which unfortunately he is now trying to buck. Now that he is more comfortable he is trying to test everything. He is a very smart dog.
My husband is his absolute favorite. Despite the fact that I feed him, play with him and work with him the most (we all share the walking) - hubby has come out on top... BIG TIME. Phoenix goes NUTS when 'Daddy' leaves the house. Whines and paces and whines some more. We were all playing in the side yard today and 'Daddy' walked around the corner of the house and Phoenix dropped the ball and followed as far as he could and just sat down. That was it - game over. Sheesh, I felt like chopped liver!
I did however get to have a wonderful evening home with Phoenix. Hubby and my son went out to dinner and a concert and we stayed in... I ate cake, ice-cream and a big glass of milk for dinner and watched movies. I was watching a scary movie (no one else will watch them with me), and I think Phoenix sensed my tension 'cause he came into the living room and laid down at my feet. He snuggled and wiggled under my bare feet, and I felt loved! Although, it was probably that he was missing the boys.... but I'm going to pretend he wanted to be with me :p
Thursday, January 27, 2011
Meet Phoenix...
It's been a little while since I posted, but we had a new Foster Dog come to stay with us and had some settling in to do. He was originally named Weinand, changed to Phoenix - but unfortunately answers to, um... Stinky. He is, stinky that is - and hubby was goofing around and calling him Stinky and as it turned out that was what he started answering to -- go figure. He really didn't answer to any name, and throw in the fact that every time I went to call him I was trying to remember what his name WAS... I ran down the list; Rufus, Weinand, um... dog - oh Phoenix. I felt like that Mom with lots of kids and she goes through all their names before settling on the correct one...
Stinky is a beautiful GSD with some serious socialization issues to work through. He has bonded with us very easily, now we just have to work on him meeting others without fear and going out to new places. We already had our evaluation with Aja of Mutt Magic Dog Training and have a laundry list of things to work on, and Stinky has proven to be a smart dog. We've added 'drop it', 'down', 'leave it' (sorta), 'wait' to his list of things he knows and he is MUCH better on leash. Which considering he is a solid 80 lbs. and I tip the scales just over 100 lbs. - that is a good thing!!!
Here are some pictures of Stinky (ok - Phoenix) since we got him, including playing in the snow today:
Stinky is a beautiful GSD with some serious socialization issues to work through. He has bonded with us very easily, now we just have to work on him meeting others without fear and going out to new places. We already had our evaluation with Aja of Mutt Magic Dog Training and have a laundry list of things to work on, and Stinky has proven to be a smart dog. We've added 'drop it', 'down', 'leave it' (sorta), 'wait' to his list of things he knows and he is MUCH better on leash. Which considering he is a solid 80 lbs. and I tip the scales just over 100 lbs. - that is a good thing!!!
Here are some pictures of Stinky (ok - Phoenix) since we got him, including playing in the snow today:
His first night with us~
Our Doggy Angel
I LOVE BALLS!
Even snowballs ~~ Catch...
Yes, I know I am Handsome!!
Where did it go??? Where did it go???
Yum, Snowballs!
Thursday, January 13, 2011
Burger King Night Thank You
I want to sincerely thank those that made it out on this cold night to help support the Burger King Fundraiser! We also received numerous used cell phones and ink-jet cartridges!
A hearty WARM Thanks goes to Dawn Teel from All Shepherd Rescue, who spent most of this very, very, cold night standing outside promoting the fundraiser... brrrr! You are the best!
And a Big Wonderful Thank You goes to the Burger King Staff (in Hickory, MD - Rt. 543 & Rt. 1) for all their help, support and just being darn good friendly people!
Receipts will be tallied and we'll get totals later in the week.
For those that have asked for additional drop off spots for ink-jet cartridges and used cell phones - I will get a schedule together in the next few days where there will be a drop box, and post it here on the blog.
Hugs to EVERYONE!
Stephanie Schwartz
A hearty WARM Thanks goes to Dawn Teel from All Shepherd Rescue, who spent most of this very, very, cold night standing outside promoting the fundraiser... brrrr! You are the best!
And a Big Wonderful Thank You goes to the Burger King Staff (in Hickory, MD - Rt. 543 & Rt. 1) for all their help, support and just being darn good friendly people!
Receipts will be tallied and we'll get totals later in the week.
For those that have asked for additional drop off spots for ink-jet cartridges and used cell phones - I will get a schedule together in the next few days where there will be a drop box, and post it here on the blog.
Hugs to EVERYONE!
Stephanie Schwartz
Sunday, January 9, 2011
Rufus Gets His Forever Home!
I figured this deserves a separate post. I took Rufus out today to meet approved adopters, and he stayed.
I wasn't expecting to be so excited about him adopting out. I know he wasn't my fit for a service dog, but we have grown so attached to him. I/we have worked so much with him and played with him and was loved by him -- and now I couldn't be happier that he has found the absolutely perfect forever home.
I made it about 3 whole miles away from their house before I cried for a few minutes. But then I felt good - I couldn't help but be happy!
We obviously are still looking for the right service dog for me, and I really hope to also continue to foster for ASR. Although, just for the record - my cats don't echo that sentiment! ;)
I saw the equivalent of the happy dance by the cats today (kinda weird if you want my honest opinion) when I walked in the door. They obviously knew because the scarediest cat of all scaredy cats was sitting nonchalantly in the dining room -- I haven't seen her in WEEKS unless I was pouring food in their dishes.
So it's quiet here tonight. But I can rest easy knowing that Rufus is probably whining for attention in his new home -- and getting LOTS and LOTS of it!!!!!
New posts and pictures as the "Quest" continues!
Thanks again for everyone's support and love -- you have all made me feel so blessed!!!
I wasn't expecting to be so excited about him adopting out. I know he wasn't my fit for a service dog, but we have grown so attached to him. I/we have worked so much with him and played with him and was loved by him -- and now I couldn't be happier that he has found the absolutely perfect forever home.
I made it about 3 whole miles away from their house before I cried for a few minutes. But then I felt good - I couldn't help but be happy!
We obviously are still looking for the right service dog for me, and I really hope to also continue to foster for ASR. Although, just for the record - my cats don't echo that sentiment! ;)
I saw the equivalent of the happy dance by the cats today (kinda weird if you want my honest opinion) when I walked in the door. They obviously knew because the scarediest cat of all scaredy cats was sitting nonchalantly in the dining room -- I haven't seen her in WEEKS unless I was pouring food in their dishes.
So it's quiet here tonight. But I can rest easy knowing that Rufus is probably whining for attention in his new home -- and getting LOTS and LOTS of it!!!!!
New posts and pictures as the "Quest" continues!
Thanks again for everyone's support and love -- you have all made me feel so blessed!!!
Reminder - Burger King Night
I know I haven't posted for a bit - after the cute snow pictures, the mud pictures just weren't doing it for me. Then it got cold again, then it got busy..... you get the idea!
For those of you in the Bel Air, Maryland area -- don't forget to come out and have dinner at Burger King in Hickory (Rt 543 and Rt 1) this Thursday night (1/13) between 5 p.m. and 8 p.m.
This is also a good time to bring your old/used cell phones and ink-jet cartridges - as I will be having a collection box there that night!
Thanks again for everyone's help -- I have already received amazing support in the way of donations and phones/cartridges. Thank you, Thank you, Thank you!!!
For those of you in the Bel Air, Maryland area -- don't forget to come out and have dinner at Burger King in Hickory (Rt 543 and Rt 1) this Thursday night (1/13) between 5 p.m. and 8 p.m.
This is also a good time to bring your old/used cell phones and ink-jet cartridges - as I will be having a collection box there that night!
Thanks again for everyone's help -- I have already received amazing support in the way of donations and phones/cartridges. Thank you, Thank you, Thank you!!!
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