It's sometimes just feels wrong to say "there is only one perfect family out there". That mytical 'it was meant to be' thing. Truth is, there are multiple awesome families out there. Tonight here I am to try to decide which family is just a titch more perfect. I've had multiple awesome applications before, multiple meet+greets, multiple excellent scenarios. But I've been lucky that 9 times out of 10, the dog let's me know where they need to go. Unfortunately, this time Chow hasn't given me 'the sign'.
We met with three different families today, and each was awesome in their own way. Ultimately, home #2 had a middle aged dog that I'm pretty darn sure Chow would pester the heck out of (she doesn't take no for an answer when it comes to playing with Beckett, who has a similiar temperment to the Rotti mix). And a short fence she would probably jump. So, great family, not Chow's home.
The other two homes were perfect in different ways.
The first home we visited was a gorgeous fenced acreage property. (Could I drool anymore?) With a current higher-energy dog living there, Chow would have a great playmate, plenty of exercise, and at the same time have commitment to doing some obedience and making sure her socialization with people continues despite the rural location. Although the two dogs would have need a couple of days living with each other to figure out the relationship (the teen dog is very good natured, but isn't sure how to really communicate with Chow and get her to play), I'm sure they would very quickly figure out how to be playmates. Chow is too playful to not play with him quickly :)
The third home, Chow had really good chemistry with the people very quickly. She followed them around, and pretty much ignored us. Very nice backyard, people that are home almost all day, and lots of dog friends (but no housemate) on the block and that friends have. The husband is very active and will be able to give her ample exercise, and the wife works at a hospital and would love to be able to train Chow to be a therapy dog for seniors and children living at the hospital. (Something I think would really benefit Chow and continue her love for people). It isn't that Chow wasn't great or didn't like the first people (she was much more distracted by the big dog trying to get her attention with whatever gimmick he could find), just that for whatever reason I felt the energy was more spot on for the people in this home. It's really like pulling at straws though.
So, I'm going to think on it tonight. It's not just a question of what I think best, or what energy I feel more, or whatever small thing. It's the whole package. Chow has never been an only dog, I don't know if she could be an only dog (the third family is pretty sure they will get a #2, but that might be far off and not something I can make the decision on). Chow has come as far as she has only be the power of the pack. Would she be okay being an only dog? No, not would she be okay -she'd get through it-, but would she be HAPPY.
It's like judging an intense dance or something. There's a 9.9999 home, and there's the full 100, and I'm not quite sure which is which. So, I will sleep on it and hope the answer finds me by morning. I will make one family very happy, and I will have to break the hearts of the other.
Rescue, even in adoption, isn't all roses. But on the brighter side, I think Chow has found her home :)
Fostering dogs in Victoria, BC. Giving them lifeskills, cushy pillows, structure, confidence and copious snuggles. From chihuahuas to Rottis, to huskies and anything in between, amusing stories, mostly useless dog tips, and cute dog pictures abound.
Sunday, March 4, 2012
Saturday, March 3, 2012
The Zen Den + Trip to the Lake
Without daycare for the last day or two, the two young dogs + young in body Beckett have been playing like loonies. They go up and down the couch, from one side of the living room to the next, wrestling, tackling, and being young goofy dogs. Plus, when one is mostly blind, and one is a pup who doesn't know where her legs are going, you get a little bit of chaos. (It's chaos before you even enter Chow into the mix. Lemon and Beckett play for HOURS on their own. My seven year old dog has the stamina of a three year old.)
Zephyr is getting a little cranky with all the flailing bodies, and Jasmine is getting tackled a little too often. And of course, me trying to settle down the playing dogs needs to be loud so they can hear me through their play, but my louder voice scares Jasmine -she buckles and cowers, poor thing-. Chow tried to guard her bed today, and when I went 'HEEY' Jasmine yelped and went and hid. Not my intended result for sure!
So, to give these two middle-aged guys a retreat, I've set up the gaming room and Jerrad's study room as their room. It's quite a big 'room', more like a den really, so they have plenty of room to move around, grab an interrupted nap, or hang by Jerrad's feet. I've put their crates down there, and left them open, and put cushy blankets around the room too. Jerrad is down there at least 5-6 hours a day, and of course they're still going for their 2-3 half hour walks and getting lots of attention. When I put Chow away for her nap, I go down and give them scratches and lovings and talk quietly to them. They are softies. They don't ask for much attention. I sit on my computer and type and they enjoy my company. Mostly, I just stay quiet with them and they sit around and snooze happily.
They don't mind the move at all. I'm feeling a little guilty that I'm not around them as much as before, but I know its in their best interest. I'd rather they get their quiet, loving time for 3/4 of the usual time, than full-time annoyance.
After all, they are dogs that haven't had to deal with 'puppies' in a very long time -if ever for Jasmine-. Sudden exposure to kids has me wanting to de-stress too. But they are such good, loving dogs. Not clingy or needy, just thankful.
It's only been one night, but they are already less cranky, feeling better about their surroundings. I feel a little bad that they aren't apart of the group most of the time, but they are welcome upstairs whenever they feel like it. But to have their own safe location will keep them happier. NO KIDS ALLOWED!
We also went out to the lake with everyone today. The TUAPAS handled the hour and a half very well. They are good on their leashes, and Jasmine is gaining confidence by walking in a pack. She will need another dog (hopefully a bigger, confident, middle-aged one) in her new home. She's not ready to be with only people. That said, who knows for down the road. But for right now, home with another dog is one of the boxes that must get ticked.
Unfortunately, no pictures are both Jerrad and my hands were filled with leashes, but if Chow is adopted soon, I'll make sure I get some of the TUAPAS enjoying their walks.
Two homechecks combo meet+greets for Chowmein tomorrow. I'm hoping she'll tell me what home is right for her. :)
Will let you guys know how it goes tomorrow night!
Emily Out
Zephyr is getting a little cranky with all the flailing bodies, and Jasmine is getting tackled a little too often. And of course, me trying to settle down the playing dogs needs to be loud so they can hear me through their play, but my louder voice scares Jasmine -she buckles and cowers, poor thing-. Chow tried to guard her bed today, and when I went 'HEEY' Jasmine yelped and went and hid. Not my intended result for sure!
So, to give these two middle-aged guys a retreat, I've set up the gaming room and Jerrad's study room as their room. It's quite a big 'room', more like a den really, so they have plenty of room to move around, grab an interrupted nap, or hang by Jerrad's feet. I've put their crates down there, and left them open, and put cushy blankets around the room too. Jerrad is down there at least 5-6 hours a day, and of course they're still going for their 2-3 half hour walks and getting lots of attention. When I put Chow away for her nap, I go down and give them scratches and lovings and talk quietly to them. They are softies. They don't ask for much attention. I sit on my computer and type and they enjoy my company. Mostly, I just stay quiet with them and they sit around and snooze happily.
They don't mind the move at all. I'm feeling a little guilty that I'm not around them as much as before, but I know its in their best interest. I'd rather they get their quiet, loving time for 3/4 of the usual time, than full-time annoyance.
After all, they are dogs that haven't had to deal with 'puppies' in a very long time -if ever for Jasmine-. Sudden exposure to kids has me wanting to de-stress too. But they are such good, loving dogs. Not clingy or needy, just thankful.
It's only been one night, but they are already less cranky, feeling better about their surroundings. I feel a little bad that they aren't apart of the group most of the time, but they are welcome upstairs whenever they feel like it. But to have their own safe location will keep them happier. NO KIDS ALLOWED!
We also went out to the lake with everyone today. The TUAPAS handled the hour and a half very well. They are good on their leashes, and Jasmine is gaining confidence by walking in a pack. She will need another dog (hopefully a bigger, confident, middle-aged one) in her new home. She's not ready to be with only people. That said, who knows for down the road. But for right now, home with another dog is one of the boxes that must get ticked.
Unfortunately, no pictures are both Jerrad and my hands were filled with leashes, but if Chow is adopted soon, I'll make sure I get some of the TUAPAS enjoying their walks.
Two homechecks combo meet+greets for Chowmein tomorrow. I'm hoping she'll tell me what home is right for her. :)
Will let you guys know how it goes tomorrow night!
Emily Out
Friday, March 2, 2012
Mid-Life Paradise or Mid-Life Crisis?
Zephyr and Jasmine are settling into routine. They both are gentle, loving, quiet dogs who don't ask for much, sometimes anything. A place to lie their heads, fresh water, meals twice a day, a good scratch from time to time, a nice brisk walk at morning, mid-day and before bed -Zephyr REALLY likes his walks. They're sometimes so quiet and unneedy that you lose track of them.
Jasmine is having a harder time of it than Zephyr. Both these dogs have pretty much lived their lives in crates, only getting out when by miracle, volunteers come by. There are over 2,000 dogs in the TUAPA shelter. Zephyr was luckier than Jasmine -he was in a building that had more volunteers come by, and more outings. At least once or twice a day he got supervised time with a caregiver, and once a week he got to go out to 'the playground', a big field where the dogs can let off some steam. Can you imagine only getting to go for a walk once a week :(
Jasmine wasn't quite so lucky. She was in a building of semi-senior to senior dogs, who if they were lucky got out once a week. The kennels weren't painfully small (but not nearly as big as what you think of when you think SPCA). At least Jasmine was lucky -she got to spend her time with some other dogs.
It's taken a toll on her though. Although her body is in really good condition, she's having a hard time adjusting to having space. Although most of the time she's okay and settles, there are a couple times a day when she starts pacing. She doesn't know what to do with herself. If you were about a 50 year old person who had been couped up in 10X12 or so for nearly your whole life, half of a house seems really big. It's almost the opposite of feeling clausterphobic. Jasmine needs time to heal her mind. Physically she is top-notch, but mentally has a ways to go.
So, although I was hoping I wouldn't crate her -she's spent so much of her life in one already-, when she starts to panic, I give her a small massage, and put her away for 10-15 minutes. (And I've started crating her for bed-time, as twice she's startled herself waking up in the middle of the night and doesn't seem to know where she is. She's never worken up not in a kennel. So that is what is safe for her.) Sometimes she instantly goes to sleep in her crate and I just leave her be, there's no point adding more stress to her. Most of the time she comes out again fine. She needs time to transition. The anxiety will lessen with time and patience. Although adult dogs have tons of advantage, the big disadvantage is that usually they take a longer time to transition. She hasn't realized yet her whole life is behind her. This is where she'll get to be Jasmine, to be loved, petted, taken for walks. It's a whole new world. And although a heck of a lot better, that doesn't mean its not scary at times.
Zephyr on the other hand continues to be quite confident. He's getting a little bit peeved with puppy play, and likes to retreat to his own crate a lot. However, once things have quieted down, he comes out looking for some attention. He's a very lovely gentlemen who really shouldn't have to put up with the likes of Chow and Lemon. Luckily, Chow plays non-stop at daycare, so when I get home at 7:30 I put her to bed with her supper, and the Tuapas get their loving. Balance.
He can be a bit of a pushy guy sometimes too, but he's a dog that's had to get along for years with very little human intervention. So he can be snarking, lip-curly, sometimes the odd snap, (he was peeved this morning that Jasmine tried to climb in his crate with him), but despite sounding kind of scary, I haven't seen him actually make physical contact yet. He could if pushed too far, but I won't let it get to that point. Still, he's quite happy. Warm blankets, good scritches, nice walks (his FAVORITE, he's figured out the timing fast and seems to know when he should be getting his walk!) and hanging by your feet is what makes him happy. Now, if only he could find a forever home where he could do that without the ruckus of the young and rambunctious crew.
Eventually my sweet middle-aged man.
We have a homecheck combo meet+greet with Chowmein out in Sooke on Sunday! A retired couple, one shepherd mix, and 3 fenced in acres. Sounds like fun to me! So we'll see how the two dogs get along -I'm not too worried about Chow, the only dogs she doesn't like are 3 huge shepherd mixes at the daycare who play like absolute idiots and think the proper way to greet dogs is to grab their back legs-. Sometimes, it would be nice to be adopted hey!
Jasmine is having a harder time of it than Zephyr. Both these dogs have pretty much lived their lives in crates, only getting out when by miracle, volunteers come by. There are over 2,000 dogs in the TUAPA shelter. Zephyr was luckier than Jasmine -he was in a building that had more volunteers come by, and more outings. At least once or twice a day he got supervised time with a caregiver, and once a week he got to go out to 'the playground', a big field where the dogs can let off some steam. Can you imagine only getting to go for a walk once a week :(
Jasmine wasn't quite so lucky. She was in a building of semi-senior to senior dogs, who if they were lucky got out once a week. The kennels weren't painfully small (but not nearly as big as what you think of when you think SPCA). At least Jasmine was lucky -she got to spend her time with some other dogs.
It's taken a toll on her though. Although her body is in really good condition, she's having a hard time adjusting to having space. Although most of the time she's okay and settles, there are a couple times a day when she starts pacing. She doesn't know what to do with herself. If you were about a 50 year old person who had been couped up in 10X12 or so for nearly your whole life, half of a house seems really big. It's almost the opposite of feeling clausterphobic. Jasmine needs time to heal her mind. Physically she is top-notch, but mentally has a ways to go.
So, although I was hoping I wouldn't crate her -she's spent so much of her life in one already-, when she starts to panic, I give her a small massage, and put her away for 10-15 minutes. (And I've started crating her for bed-time, as twice she's startled herself waking up in the middle of the night and doesn't seem to know where she is. She's never worken up not in a kennel. So that is what is safe for her.) Sometimes she instantly goes to sleep in her crate and I just leave her be, there's no point adding more stress to her. Most of the time she comes out again fine. She needs time to transition. The anxiety will lessen with time and patience. Although adult dogs have tons of advantage, the big disadvantage is that usually they take a longer time to transition. She hasn't realized yet her whole life is behind her. This is where she'll get to be Jasmine, to be loved, petted, taken for walks. It's a whole new world. And although a heck of a lot better, that doesn't mean its not scary at times.
 |
| Jasmine poses pretty for the camera. |
 |
| Resting peacefully, with Zephyr to keep watch for his crate. |
Zephyr on the other hand continues to be quite confident. He's getting a little bit peeved with puppy play, and likes to retreat to his own crate a lot. However, once things have quieted down, he comes out looking for some attention. He's a very lovely gentlemen who really shouldn't have to put up with the likes of Chow and Lemon. Luckily, Chow plays non-stop at daycare, so when I get home at 7:30 I put her to bed with her supper, and the Tuapas get their loving. Balance.
He can be a bit of a pushy guy sometimes too, but he's a dog that's had to get along for years with very little human intervention. So he can be snarking, lip-curly, sometimes the odd snap, (he was peeved this morning that Jasmine tried to climb in his crate with him), but despite sounding kind of scary, I haven't seen him actually make physical contact yet. He could if pushed too far, but I won't let it get to that point. Still, he's quite happy. Warm blankets, good scritches, nice walks (his FAVORITE, he's figured out the timing fast and seems to know when he should be getting his walk!) and hanging by your feet is what makes him happy. Now, if only he could find a forever home where he could do that without the ruckus of the young and rambunctious crew.
Eventually my sweet middle-aged man.
 |
| This one taken an hour after they got here. We kept the leashes on for the first 4-5 hours. |
Thursday, March 1, 2012
Once You Go Terrier, You Never Go Back
And this is a good thing! Chowmein is a terrier mix, what fun is being a terrier if you don't get to 'be' a terrier! Sure, she's not exactly the dog she came in as, but that's okay. She's HAPPY. She's comfortable in her skin. She's become the personality of dog she is meant to be.
Chow has graduated at K9HQ from playing only with the small dogs, to doing a mix. Sometimes she's in with the big dogs, and if she gets a little overwhelmed, she's back with the small dogs. When she first came she was quite pertrified a big dog was going to eat her and sat in a corner looking like she thought she was dessert. Now she tackles with the best of them. She starts zoomie games, she snarks her terrier bum off if her playmate catches her too quickly. She wrestles and sometimes boxes, but mostly forgets where her legs are and clumsily crashes into things (ahh, puppies!) There are still some really big, boisterous dogs she's a little leary off, but the confidence usually wins out.
Still, she's not a complete terrier thank goodness.Chowmein's extra non-terrier bonus? She HATES to be told she's wrong. (This isn't really a sharpei trait either, so I thank whatever other mix is in there somewhere! Maybe there's a piece of Shepherd somewhere?). I haven't been working on any obedience or anything ---I personally leave that to her new family to do the commands bit-, but Chow really hates being told 'no'. She's sulky. She likes to be right, and for the most part, wants to please. Why don't all terriers have this trait? Most terriers (and sharpeis for that matter) usually have a 'screw you' attitude when it comes to being told off. Mixes, you gotta love them :) You can have the terrier with the off-switch!
Today I will also show her off to one of our clients, that asked Meshum this morning who Gangster's new playmate was? They saw a scruffy, orange dog on the webcam who seemed a new addition to Gangster's 'poose'. Gangster is a spoiled, typical purebred Airedale. Like most teenage terriers, he's not a bad dog, he's just a BRAT! And right now, he's also a brat sporting a lion cut. (Did someone lose a bet?)
After Meshum told them it was Chowmein, and that she was for adoption, the excitement got into them. So, I will show Chowmein off to them. They're looking for another dog to add to the family, but don't want a pup, and would prefer to rescue. Of course, applications, Yvette's approval, homecheck and all the regular rescue route stuff still applies. Although Gangster is not my favorite dog in the world (but then again, I don't know a terrier at our daycare that doesn't cause some sort of chaos :P), he'd be a fantastic play partner for Chow. He's taken extremely good care of (hair cut aside). I might get to see her at daycare too which would be a bonus.
I love the possibility of a terrier-savvy home. They'll get the naughty guarding tendency things, the bratty parts, the goofy parts, the very loving parts. The attitude. It reminds me of getting Honey's home, where they'd had terriers they're whole life and it was like 'yep, she's for you then'.
Not that she needs a breed-savvy home by any means, but of course it would be nice.
We'll see what's in the cards. Daycare client or not, that doesn't mean its the best home for Chow -or that they'll even apply for her after I show her off.
So, there I go getting ahead of myself. I think I just wanted to show off Gangster's haircut :P.
Chow has graduated at K9HQ from playing only with the small dogs, to doing a mix. Sometimes she's in with the big dogs, and if she gets a little overwhelmed, she's back with the small dogs. When she first came she was quite pertrified a big dog was going to eat her and sat in a corner looking like she thought she was dessert. Now she tackles with the best of them. She starts zoomie games, she snarks her terrier bum off if her playmate catches her too quickly. She wrestles and sometimes boxes, but mostly forgets where her legs are and clumsily crashes into things (ahh, puppies!) There are still some really big, boisterous dogs she's a little leary off, but the confidence usually wins out.
Still, she's not a complete terrier thank goodness.Chowmein's extra non-terrier bonus? She HATES to be told she's wrong. (This isn't really a sharpei trait either, so I thank whatever other mix is in there somewhere! Maybe there's a piece of Shepherd somewhere?). I haven't been working on any obedience or anything ---I personally leave that to her new family to do the commands bit-, but Chow really hates being told 'no'. She's sulky. She likes to be right, and for the most part, wants to please. Why don't all terriers have this trait? Most terriers (and sharpeis for that matter) usually have a 'screw you' attitude when it comes to being told off. Mixes, you gotta love them :) You can have the terrier with the off-switch!
Today I will also show her off to one of our clients, that asked Meshum this morning who Gangster's new playmate was? They saw a scruffy, orange dog on the webcam who seemed a new addition to Gangster's 'poose'. Gangster is a spoiled, typical purebred Airedale. Like most teenage terriers, he's not a bad dog, he's just a BRAT! And right now, he's also a brat sporting a lion cut. (Did someone lose a bet?)
 |
| Gangster |
I love the possibility of a terrier-savvy home. They'll get the naughty guarding tendency things, the bratty parts, the goofy parts, the very loving parts. The attitude. It reminds me of getting Honey's home, where they'd had terriers they're whole life and it was like 'yep, she's for you then'.
Not that she needs a breed-savvy home by any means, but of course it would be nice.
We'll see what's in the cards. Daycare client or not, that doesn't mean its the best home for Chow -or that they'll even apply for her after I show her off.
So, there I go getting ahead of myself. I think I just wanted to show off Gangster's haircut :P.
 |
| Stealing Minnie's bed! |
Wednesday, February 29, 2012
With Confidence Comes Attitude
I love building confidence in shyer dogs. To see them come out of their shells into the dogs they are meant to be is very rewarding. However, as much as confidence building is a good thing, it comes with the added inclusion of: attitude.
Because the dog is developing their sense that they have some control, that they are safe, and that they are capable, they also figure out fast that they can get away with some things with other dogs (and/or people). Confidence isn't a bad thing, it just comes with its own set of hurdles to tackle.
Chow is far from the shyer dog she was when she came. She interacts well with people and other dogs, and has great introduction skills now, where before she was a little on the fearful side. She has learnt a lot of things. She loves going for long hikes and no longer hides from bikers/joggers/horses. She is still a great dog, but a dog that is definitely confident. Her sharpei and terrier are emerging, and she's figuring out she likes to be bossy!
She reminds me very much of how Honey switched. One day Honey was a fearful terrier mix, and then the lightbulb went off that she was indeed a terrier. She never went back. I don't think Chow will either.
With her attitude, she's getting to be a bit of demanding dog. She's pushy. She's got a strong personality. And Beckett and Lemon don't, so they don't put her in her place.
But -she's got me. And I'm got personality and attitude that trump hers for miles and miles.
Yesterday saw the arrival of the Taiwanese dogs, and although Chow did have good introductions skills she tried to make it known quite quickly that Beckett was 'her dog'. Poor Jasmine, who is one of the most submissive dog I know- got a good nip. But Chow got the shitty end of the stick. I don't usually practice rolling or pinning dogs, but the instant I heard that cry from Jasmine Chow was on her back. There is one fundamental rule in this home, whether you're a foster or not.
You do not get to hurt other dogs.
Not that Chow really HURT her, it wasn't an attack of anything. But a strong nip is an upgrade from her usual guarding tactics,and it hurt Jasmine as far as I'm concerned. You can be confident, but you can NOT be a jerk!
Chow hasn't gone back for more or tried anything further. Except she's tried to make friends with Jasmine and Jasmine is like 'what the hell puppy, you snapped at me. You're SCARY!'. She got the point. Foster mum is the biggest bitch on campus. Chow hasn't tried to guard Beckett or her bed again, and she seems to be looking at me more thinking things though. 'Hmm... should I share my bone with those outsiders??' The look goes a long way with her. Still, she's kind of like that teenager who is weighing their options (reminds me of Beckett actually). Can I get away with that, or am I going to get in shit. Strong personality dogs need strong personality, confident people. For her, I'll be that person -I'm SO used to it with Beckett. The 'no shit' mantra.
She's also been a little guardy with her crate and food from the new dogs. With Beckett and Lemon, her 'pack', she'll let them right in her crate and right into her food bowl. It's so sharpei. That outsider thing. They are a type of dog that is very sure of themselves, very confident. Doesn't trust easily. And the terrier in there pushes it. I know a lot of terriers with guarding tendencies (still, it is a behaviour, not a genetic trait, so can be worked on. Just needs to be worked on harder than your shitzu or whatever.)
This does not mean Chow is a difficult dog, or a bad dog. It means she is finding herself, and her breed traits are showing through. It also makes it easy for me to work on it, as I have every opportunity to correct her and show her the correct way. And, it makes it obvious that even though I love her, she'd rather not be a dog that lives in a foster type environment. She needs 'her pack', and of course friends, but not the stream of dogs that comes through like here. Of course she'll be just fine to finish up her fostering here, and I'll still enjoy my time with her -even though she's now a confident, slightly bratty youth and not a shy girl.
Still, I love her very much, and she is a good puppy who just needs further commitment to her ongoing training and education. This is the dog underneath the shy girl. This is Chow!
Because the dog is developing their sense that they have some control, that they are safe, and that they are capable, they also figure out fast that they can get away with some things with other dogs (and/or people). Confidence isn't a bad thing, it just comes with its own set of hurdles to tackle.
Chow is far from the shyer dog she was when she came. She interacts well with people and other dogs, and has great introduction skills now, where before she was a little on the fearful side. She has learnt a lot of things. She loves going for long hikes and no longer hides from bikers/joggers/horses. She is still a great dog, but a dog that is definitely confident. Her sharpei and terrier are emerging, and she's figuring out she likes to be bossy!
She reminds me very much of how Honey switched. One day Honey was a fearful terrier mix, and then the lightbulb went off that she was indeed a terrier. She never went back. I don't think Chow will either.
With her attitude, she's getting to be a bit of demanding dog. She's pushy. She's got a strong personality. And Beckett and Lemon don't, so they don't put her in her place.
But -she's got me. And I'm got personality and attitude that trump hers for miles and miles.
Yesterday saw the arrival of the Taiwanese dogs, and although Chow did have good introductions skills she tried to make it known quite quickly that Beckett was 'her dog'. Poor Jasmine, who is one of the most submissive dog I know- got a good nip. But Chow got the shitty end of the stick. I don't usually practice rolling or pinning dogs, but the instant I heard that cry from Jasmine Chow was on her back. There is one fundamental rule in this home, whether you're a foster or not.
You do not get to hurt other dogs.
Not that Chow really HURT her, it wasn't an attack of anything. But a strong nip is an upgrade from her usual guarding tactics,and it hurt Jasmine as far as I'm concerned. You can be confident, but you can NOT be a jerk!
Chow hasn't gone back for more or tried anything further. Except she's tried to make friends with Jasmine and Jasmine is like 'what the hell puppy, you snapped at me. You're SCARY!'. She got the point. Foster mum is the biggest bitch on campus. Chow hasn't tried to guard Beckett or her bed again, and she seems to be looking at me more thinking things though. 'Hmm... should I share my bone with those outsiders??' The look goes a long way with her. Still, she's kind of like that teenager who is weighing their options (reminds me of Beckett actually). Can I get away with that, or am I going to get in shit. Strong personality dogs need strong personality, confident people. For her, I'll be that person -I'm SO used to it with Beckett. The 'no shit' mantra.
She's also been a little guardy with her crate and food from the new dogs. With Beckett and Lemon, her 'pack', she'll let them right in her crate and right into her food bowl. It's so sharpei. That outsider thing. They are a type of dog that is very sure of themselves, very confident. Doesn't trust easily. And the terrier in there pushes it. I know a lot of terriers with guarding tendencies (still, it is a behaviour, not a genetic trait, so can be worked on. Just needs to be worked on harder than your shitzu or whatever.)
This does not mean Chow is a difficult dog, or a bad dog. It means she is finding herself, and her breed traits are showing through. It also makes it easy for me to work on it, as I have every opportunity to correct her and show her the correct way. And, it makes it obvious that even though I love her, she'd rather not be a dog that lives in a foster type environment. She needs 'her pack', and of course friends, but not the stream of dogs that comes through like here. Of course she'll be just fine to finish up her fostering here, and I'll still enjoy my time with her -even though she's now a confident, slightly bratty youth and not a shy girl.
Still, I love her very much, and she is a good puppy who just needs further commitment to her ongoing training and education. This is the dog underneath the shy girl. This is Chow!
Doesn't She Look Proud!
Tuesday, February 28, 2012
A Pair of Calm Middle-Aged Dogs
Why is it everyone wants a puppy? Even as good of a puppy as Chow is, she's got a lot of energy. She needs a couple of hours of play time with the other dogs, at least two half hour loops of the property, and usually a trip out for an hour or two to the lake or hiking to keep her a 'good puppy'. Don't get me wrong, Chow is AWESOME, and with daycare and active people, she is at her best but having the TUAPAS here, I really wonder why more people don't adopt a middle aged dog.
They so far haven't peed or pooed in the house, they are affectionate and come for scritches, they go for their lightly paced half an hour walk around the property (Jasmine is spooked for new noises, but recovers quickly) and are happy, but not in any rush to go for another walk or play. Zephyr slept the night in a crate just fine, and because we didn't have another crate big enough, Jasmine slept beside Zephyr's crate. No fuss. Jasmine danced around for a bit trying to figure out where her companion went but settled down after a few minutes.
They are happy to just 'be'. Mostly, they are quite content to curl up on cushions or the floor and just relax. Zephyr particularly likes to sit near your feet. They aren't dogs on their deathbeds, or dogs that can't be active with you if you want them to be, they are middle-aged dogs. Calm, affectionate, loyal middle-aged dogs.
They don't mind the barn-cats (Jasmine is a little shy of them), ignore the chickens, and enjoy rural life. Zephyr walks well on his leash, though likes to switch sides. Jasmine is pretty good on her leash, but has a habit of stopping like a deer in the headlights if she thinks something like blowing leaves are going to hurt her. In a couple of days we'll start the city-skills aspect of foster care.
Individually Jasmine is a total sweetheart. She's a dog that really should go to a home with another dog or two already. She's spent almost her whole life in a group of dogs, and is a complete follower. She takes her direction from all the other dogs. She's a little spooked about loud noises, but is getting used to them fast. I haven't heard her make a sound yet! She'd be okay with older, calmer children. If anyone is looking for a calm, cool and collected dog to keep their current semi-senior company, this would be your girl!
Zephyr is also a very good boy. He can be a little snarky on first greetings to dogs his size of bigger (IE: Beckett and Chow), but isn't fearful or pushy or anything. Not aggressive! Just very communicative of not appreciating them in his face. -And a puppy and a mostly blind dog don't get that right away :S He's found his cushion though, and the dogs can play in their half of the livingroom without bothering him. Funnily enough he'll let Lemon jump on him. How the heck does the brattiest one get away without Zephyr's grump-snark?? And she's the only one that really deserves it!
Zephyr's quite confident, doesn't seem afraid of anything so far. He's always looking for some attention. I hand fed him last evening, and he only ate about 1/3 of what I offered him. Good, cause he needs to lose about 10 pounds! He and Jasmine are about the same height give or take an inch, but Jasmine is a nice ideal 36 pounds. Zephyr is a whopping 53 pounds! Granted he's built a bit more solid, but still. Whopping I tell you!
Zephyr could do a single dog home with ease. He's much more peoply than doggie. He just wants a nice retirement home where he can lie his head on someone's feet and lay in front of a fireplace. He would definitely be up to taking his girlfriend Jasmine with him.
How cool would that be if they could be adopted together!!
If Zephyr is here past Friday, he might as well stay. He doesn't need to be bounced again and the two Taiwanese are good for each other. He doesn't seem too bothered by the commotion of the pups, and Jerrad can take the threesome for their longer hikes, and I can do the shorter property walks with the older ones for awhile until I think they can last the 2 hour hike (probably, but will work up to it!) Besides, they've had a long trip. The first week is for resting :) Besides, I have board dog Minnie here until Saturday, and she's no hiking dog, so I'm kind of stuck home with her. But that's okay. More company is welcome :).
I definitely recommend if you're going to get into fostering, asking for some middle aged dogs to start. It's a heck of a lot easier than getting teenagers!
More to Come
Emily
They so far haven't peed or pooed in the house, they are affectionate and come for scritches, they go for their lightly paced half an hour walk around the property (Jasmine is spooked for new noises, but recovers quickly) and are happy, but not in any rush to go for another walk or play. Zephyr slept the night in a crate just fine, and because we didn't have another crate big enough, Jasmine slept beside Zephyr's crate. No fuss. Jasmine danced around for a bit trying to figure out where her companion went but settled down after a few minutes.
They are happy to just 'be'. Mostly, they are quite content to curl up on cushions or the floor and just relax. Zephyr particularly likes to sit near your feet. They aren't dogs on their deathbeds, or dogs that can't be active with you if you want them to be, they are middle-aged dogs. Calm, affectionate, loyal middle-aged dogs.
They don't mind the barn-cats (Jasmine is a little shy of them), ignore the chickens, and enjoy rural life. Zephyr walks well on his leash, though likes to switch sides. Jasmine is pretty good on her leash, but has a habit of stopping like a deer in the headlights if she thinks something like blowing leaves are going to hurt her. In a couple of days we'll start the city-skills aspect of foster care.
Individually Jasmine is a total sweetheart. She's a dog that really should go to a home with another dog or two already. She's spent almost her whole life in a group of dogs, and is a complete follower. She takes her direction from all the other dogs. She's a little spooked about loud noises, but is getting used to them fast. I haven't heard her make a sound yet! She'd be okay with older, calmer children. If anyone is looking for a calm, cool and collected dog to keep their current semi-senior company, this would be your girl!
 |
| Getting comfy in her new foster home. |
 |
| Maybe we should have called him Fluffy Brindle Sausage? |
Zephyr's quite confident, doesn't seem afraid of anything so far. He's always looking for some attention. I hand fed him last evening, and he only ate about 1/3 of what I offered him. Good, cause he needs to lose about 10 pounds! He and Jasmine are about the same height give or take an inch, but Jasmine is a nice ideal 36 pounds. Zephyr is a whopping 53 pounds! Granted he's built a bit more solid, but still. Whopping I tell you!
Zephyr could do a single dog home with ease. He's much more peoply than doggie. He just wants a nice retirement home where he can lie his head on someone's feet and lay in front of a fireplace. He would definitely be up to taking his girlfriend Jasmine with him.
How cool would that be if they could be adopted together!!
If Zephyr is here past Friday, he might as well stay. He doesn't need to be bounced again and the two Taiwanese are good for each other. He doesn't seem too bothered by the commotion of the pups, and Jerrad can take the threesome for their longer hikes, and I can do the shorter property walks with the older ones for awhile until I think they can last the 2 hour hike (probably, but will work up to it!) Besides, they've had a long trip. The first week is for resting :) Besides, I have board dog Minnie here until Saturday, and she's no hiking dog, so I'm kind of stuck home with her. But that's okay. More company is welcome :).
I definitely recommend if you're going to get into fostering, asking for some middle aged dogs to start. It's a heck of a lot easier than getting teenagers!
More to Come
Emily
Monday, February 27, 2012
Arrival of the TUAPAS
A-Lang, (Now Zephyr), and Molly/Jasmine (now just Jasmine) landed today. They are both from Taiwan, and are older 7-8 year olds.
Jasmine is the girl I've been waiting almost a year to foster, and she is super sweet. She's nervous of loud noises, cautious, but very, very sweet, leans right into you for a pet. Very good introductions with the other dogs. Just needs someone who can introduce her to Canadian life and give her a nice warm place beside them. It's so cool when you finally see the dog you've been waiting forever for AND that they live up to your expectations :)
Zephyr is quite overweight, and has a bald bum, but is a very loving dude. Up for an ear-scratch and likes to lie by your feet. He was put off by Chow and her puppy energy, and mostly-blind Beckett, but has been a gentlemen with bratty Lemon and very submissive board dog Minnie. He'll have to get used to puppy energy in the house for a bit, but tonight I'll make him his own comfy corner near my feet, and hopefully that'll work to keep him safe, and still keep the players playing. We'll see if he finds his foster, but I figure if he's here more than 2 weeks tops, he might as well just stay here. There's no point bouncing around once they get comfy.
Oh, and Chow has some interest now :) We'll see if anything goes anywhere, but interest is good! Going with the flow.
Pictures of the new recruit(s) soon.
Emily Out
 |
| Fresh off the Plane |
Zephyr is quite overweight, and has a bald bum, but is a very loving dude. Up for an ear-scratch and likes to lie by your feet. He was put off by Chow and her puppy energy, and mostly-blind Beckett, but has been a gentlemen with bratty Lemon and very submissive board dog Minnie. He'll have to get used to puppy energy in the house for a bit, but tonight I'll make him his own comfy corner near my feet, and hopefully that'll work to keep him safe, and still keep the players playing. We'll see if he finds his foster, but I figure if he's here more than 2 weeks tops, he might as well just stay here. There's no point bouncing around once they get comfy.
Oh, and Chow has some interest now :) We'll see if anything goes anywhere, but interest is good! Going with the flow.
Pictures of the new recruit(s) soon.
Emily Out
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