We're down to the final four! Athena, Buddy, Greta and Shine. So, so thankful for some nice weather! Today we did some work. Work for me and for the pups a bit of a game. But a learning opportunity as well. The job at hand... pick up sticks in prep for mowing, The pups job was first and foremost to stay close, which was easy for them. Secondarily they had to stay away from my feet and the front of the wheel barrow (or be run over) and they excelled. My job was to collect the sticks and get them in the barrow before they decided the sticks and moss were objects to be played with. Seems they have an affinity for the moss... But we made it a fun outing and I got the task at hand accomplished. While collecting, I asked for some bravery too... collecting near the big dogs, secured in kennels, who offered some barks... Again, the pups did well and followed me to dump our barrow on the burn pile. A couple, not sure which, stopped to say hi to dad en route.
Next after a quick break on the porch for me, and in the bushes for them, we pulled laundry from the line. The only pup to follow for that job was Greta. The others busy with toys in the bushes. Greta watched and played solo and finally settled laying by the basket. At one point I walked back to the bushes to see if I could draw the attention of the other pups and was rewarded by two following me back to the line... the hold out was Buddy who seemed content to stay in the bush! Wasn't concerned, he had shelter and none of these pups will stray. I went about finishing what was left to do on the line and within a few minutes, Buddy too joined me and the rest of the pack to finish up the laundry.
Next up, some porch time as darkness was falling. Nothing like dining in the dark... Well ok, we did have the luxury of a porch light. But darkness was in fact falling all around. I incorporated some new toys into the outing and I'm not sure which was most appreciated. The toys or dinner. In the end, all but a few kibble had been consumed and all toys dirtied and used. Fun and dinner was had. For me too. Earlier in the day I fired up the Blackstone and grilled some bacon. While the pups ate, I ate too. A BLT
After... I was basically prepared to call it a night. But, since I still had some energy and a thought, I decided to introduce Shine to the rest of the pack. Most of them anyway. I first gave her some time with mom which went well even if some hesitation was shown on Shine's part. Next on the list of introductions was Majestic. Jess did really well with her but did the paws down, butt up pouncing thing that put the pup off a bit. But they worked it out. Jess has loads of experience with pups!!! Next I let Skye out. She acknowledged Shine but immediately went about her business of canvasing the property. The two never really had any interaction to speak of. Then came Remedy who was all about checking out the new addition. She sniffed and pawed a bit, but in the end she was all about mothering Shine. She licked her belly as Shine went belly up and groomed her ears as if to say, "hey chill... we're one and the same. I mean no harm". A work in progress...........!
A great day was had by all. Including me. It was nice not to have to be anywhere or do anything according to any type of schedule. We just went with the flow. Even got the lawn mowed... at least the area around the house. Maybe the rest tomorrow.
Thanks to those of you have updated via the FB litter page. And to the rest of you, thanks for your patience. I assure you, your pups are getting better and sweeter by the day!
Next after a quick break on the porch for me, and in the bushes for them, we pulled laundry from the line. The only pup to follow for that job was Greta. The others busy with toys in the bushes. Greta watched and played solo and finally settled laying by the basket. At one point I walked back to the bushes to see if I could draw the attention of the other pups and was rewarded by two following me back to the line... the hold out was Buddy who seemed content to stay in the bush! Wasn't concerned, he had shelter and none of these pups will stray. I went about finishing what was left to do on the line and within a few minutes, Buddy too joined me and the rest of the pack to finish up the laundry.
Next up, some porch time as darkness was falling. Nothing like dining in the dark... Well ok, we did have the luxury of a porch light. But darkness was in fact falling all around. I incorporated some new toys into the outing and I'm not sure which was most appreciated. The toys or dinner. In the end, all but a few kibble had been consumed and all toys dirtied and used. Fun and dinner was had. For me too. Earlier in the day I fired up the Blackstone and grilled some bacon. While the pups ate, I ate too. A BLT
After... I was basically prepared to call it a night. But, since I still had some energy and a thought, I decided to introduce Shine to the rest of the pack. Most of them anyway. I first gave her some time with mom which went well even if some hesitation was shown on Shine's part. Next on the list of introductions was Majestic. Jess did really well with her but did the paws down, butt up pouncing thing that put the pup off a bit. But they worked it out. Jess has loads of experience with pups!!! Next I let Skye out. She acknowledged Shine but immediately went about her business of canvasing the property. The two never really had any interaction to speak of. Then came Remedy who was all about checking out the new addition. She sniffed and pawed a bit, but in the end she was all about mothering Shine. She licked her belly as Shine went belly up and groomed her ears as if to say, "hey chill... we're one and the same. I mean no harm". A work in progress...........!
A great day was had by all. Including me. It was nice not to have to be anywhere or do anything according to any type of schedule. We just went with the flow. Even got the lawn mowed... at least the area around the house. Maybe the rest tomorrow.
Thanks to those of you have updated via the FB litter page. And to the rest of you, thanks for your patience. I assure you, your pups are getting better and sweeter by the day!