Little Big Things

Bri has really turned the corner this last month.  She now does quite a few little things that, to me, represent BIG progress.  Of particular note is that she now carries her own ball in from the field back to the truck at work.  This is a huge milestone for her.  For months and months she would chase a ball and then when she felt any pressure on her collar (from the leash or whatever) she would drop it.  I was perpetually picking up her ball and dragging her along as Champ raced ahead, triumphantly carrying his own.  Now there is no way she's dropping that ball without a command!  This symbolizes her growing security and confidence and reinforces that prey drive that we need so much in this working pup!  This "little big thing" developed naturally over time with encouragement, trust and bond-building.  It feels like a win for both of us.

Another milestone to note is that she is now OFF LEASH at work!  She responds to her name and comes when called.  She does not take off on solo adventures and is no longer comfortable being out of sight of me and Champ.  In short, she wants to go home with us!  This is so huge for her.  For a long time I was sure that she could take or leave us and was not really bonded.  Now I see in her such a strong desire to please and to be with her "pack".

The last "little big thing" I want to remember is how affectionate she has become with us humans in her family.  She seeks out attention from both Dan and I...ok mostly Dan...but if he's not around she'll take me.  She gives "hugs" and exuberantly flops down on her back for belly rubs (the submissive wetting is also, thankfully, GONE), she has become such a lovey.

Good job baby girl!

Goodbye Moose-y

Champ's beloved moose had been with him ever since he came to live with me at 3 months old.  Moose-y did suffer the loss of all his stuffing, one antler and two legs but he was still well-loved and Champ toted him around often.  I thought Moose-y had gone the way of so many of our posessions and that Little Miss Demon had shredded (and probably swallowed) him.  As I was cleaning out the backyard getting ready to move I found him, covered in dirt and with grass growing out of him.  Poor Moose-y, he escaped the puppy but not the garbage can.  I'll always remember how cute he and Champ were when they were both young though...

 

Thanksgiving 2005

Champ-o

Oh yes, I DO still have my beloved pony, Champ.  He has been very busy lately teaching his puppy manners and almost passing his SchH1 test.  :-/  Next time for sure.  It's just that he refuses to do the long down.  All the other elements look great.  He is still by far the best house dog pet I could ever wish for so am not tooooo upset by his untitled schutzhund state!

Dear Bri,

You rock our world in so many good ways but if you would please STOP

• eating socks
• chasing your tail accompanied by your freakishly shrill barks
• eating cat shit

             AND as of yesterday...

• rolling in mysterious and hideous smelling things at 2am

that would be awesome.

Love,

Your long suffering family

Starting Again

After a LONG hiatus I am feeling the urge to resume blogging.  I'll try not to let it go 2+ years without a post again!  One big reason for starting again is this little one -

Brylie, aka Briar Rose, aka Bri

After lots of ups and downs this not-so-little-any-more girl joined the family making Champ and I very happy. (most of the time) She is now nine months old and everything you'd expect of a drive-y malinois pup.