Fred Friend

That's great. Small steps, small steps.

Yesterday's walk was golden. He listened and was very polite. We didn't see any bikes, so that test is still in the future. But, I'll take a walk where he turned around when asked and walked without getting stuck and needing his collar buzzer to get going.

More progress, did he get extra treats.

He did! I've been using treats a lot to get him refined. Today, we worked on his bark responses to things outside. I don't mind him being protective, but I am working on getting him to panic less. So far, so good. And, we had another golden walk today. Good dog!

That's wonderful. I'm glad he's come so far.

Yesterday, we walked around the William and Mary campus for a little nostalgia for me and some interesting things for him. He was SO good. No woofing, no panic barking at bikes, polite around strangers. He even greeted a nice lady with a wag. He seems to have more concern with his space at home. He is perfectly acceptable in public.

That's wonderful. With that as a basis I'm sure he will continue to improve on the home front.

He is getting better. Now, he woofs like a guard dog and doesn't lunge at the door to get whoever is approaching. I can live with a guard dog. I'm working on calling him down when he's woofing. He's getting better with the help of cookies.

Cookies make everything better.

Today, Fred sat when I told him to do it. He got many pats and lots of cookies. He didn't panic when I touched his back legs, and he willingly sat down without a lot of pushing on his rear. I am so pleased with him. He's really coming around. We have to practice every day for a while, but he's a smart one. He'll get it.

What a GOOD BOY!!!!! He has come a long with but he's got a great Meowmy.

He really is making great strides now. For a while, I was worried that he would be difficult, but he really seems to be getting into being a pet. He stays in the yard. He knows "go to house." He knows to stay by me when we walk. We still have to work on voice commands, but that's true of every dog. Practice makes perfect.

I think they understand when they have the good life. Also he lucked into a guardian who has the knowledge and patience to bring out the good dog that was inside him.

I learned today that he has no respect for my car. I pulled in the driveway, and he came bounding down the driveway. I guess he trusts me to stop. I've never seen him do that with other cars. Silly mutt!

That was being a silly dog.

When I rolled down the window, he stood on his back legs crying for me to get out. I was only gone for about an hour, but he thinks I abandoned him. I went to buy dog food without him!!

GASP!!! ABONDANMENT!!! Bud

Can you believe my mom went away and left me alone ALL DAY? My dad took care of me at night and then he left me alone ALL DAY again today. My mom came home and I was so happy I cried. I am so tired now. I was not a happy doggie being by myself with no one but those kitties. They are ok, but they sleep all day and are no help guarding the house.

Fred

Fred that is awful. How did you cope? I know kitties aren't much help in guarding but still they were company. Hopefully you will be well rewarded for your hard work. meowmy

My mom brought me something called Yakky Yum. I love them. She puts them in the freezer so they last a little longer, but I munch them down as fast as I can. There are lots of flavors. This pet thing is really neat. I did not get snacks and chews when I was hunting or when I was stray. I think I'll stick around here!

I know what you mean Fred. Great noms, safe places to sleep. And did I mention the water is always fresh and cool. Bud

It's always nice to have hoomans home with us all day.

Tortie

I know. Food Lady is always checking on me. I have some interesting news to share later. Bud

I have news too! My parents put a sign in front of their house, and their friend Jim (who is now my best buddy) is helping them to sell it. My mom says she is not sure she can care for a farm as she gets older and it is a good time to let someone younger take over our farm. I don't know what that means for me, but she seems excited and sad all at the same time. She says to please not let the news off this forum yet. It isn't ready for wider public consumption.

Fred

We won't. Food Lady is good about secrets. Bud