Now granted I only spend an hour or two with him on a daily basis, but it appears to me that he has settled in nicely. He definitely has his "friends," humans and canine, that he really seeks out, but seems to do well with humans of all ages. I was concerned that perhaps he might have had some negative feelings toward me, well uncertain feelings I should say, as initially when I would go to get him, he was somewhat timid and cautious initially, but when I would speak to him or whistle "his" whistle, he would flatten his ears and wag his tail and was receptive. And today... well once they got him out of the kennel area for me and I fussed over him, he really showed me he was happy with his big tail wag, eye contact, and his flattened ears.
We took a short walk and then sat together and watched all the other people and dogs pass by. Often there were people who recognized him and were so happy he was rescued. Children love him, as do most of the adults, as he is a striking beauty as he lays and watches. I started combing him which he readily accepted, and as I have been working on getting his attention by using his name and trying the "watch me" command, he decided to show me a few things. He began to offer me his paw for a treat, so I named it ("shake" of course). The paw shaking went on for at least 10 minutes-and if I tried to ignore him (just for fun) he'd swat at me with the other one. He even rolled over for a lengthy belly rub-so I believe he is comfortable enough with me and where we were situated. It was great to see some "real" dog behavior coming out. Even some fun dog stuff!
I have to admit it is very hard to see all those animals at the shelter. The workers are terrific, kind, caring, and attentive to the needs of the animals-it just breaks my heart that there are so many without homes. I couldn't even begin to listen to half of their stories-I would get too upset and angry. Thank God there ARE people who work at the shelters and take care of those that society have tossed aside. Where would they all be without these people? I can't bear to even consider. Even though I love and respect animals, I could not do the jobs these workers do day in and day out, I so admire them all!
So tomorrow will be another day, and hopefully I will spend more time with our boy. I'm still in shock and in awe of the fact that I actually get to touch him and walk with him by my side-sooooooo cooool!
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After reading the letter to the editor by Dana, and yes I am still crying, I can relate to her caring and patience during Teddy's ordeal. We had to make the fateful decision to put our dog to rest this time last summer and we know what it takes to have the patience and caring attitude towards an animal. Everyone should learn from this story and become like Dana in her effort and perseverence to commit to seeing this dog through his ordeal. We need more people like her in Schuylkill County. I hope to share this story with my family and friends. Thank you again, Kathy Connelly, Marlin
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