Today was another transitional family day here at OMV. Isabel was buried beside a magnolia tree on Friday in a place of fond memories. The Spreadles got to make her goodbyes, which consisted of trying to chase squirrels...as appropriate a send off as could be asked from those two and their mutual fondness for the bushy tailed varmints.
We let our girl have one last moment in the yard as the lone dog. She was bored stiff and was ready to get back in the car to pick up her new sister.
Shelly had been named Ellie at the shelter. Her new name comes from a nickname that I bestowed pretty early on in Isabel's life with me. I had dubbed her the Shellies, which I probably called her as much as her own name. Seeing so much of my girl in her it seemed only appropriate that she carry the memory of the name.
The Spreads is certainly enjoying her new playmate. They went tearing through the yard. The Pose actually panted vigorously, something I only see her do in the summer, though it was pretty warm today. I think they're going to be great pals.
The challenges of having a new puppy are already apparent. Potty training, knowing when it's play time and when it's chill time. She has made excellent progress with sit today. It's going to take some getting used to for all of us, but it's nice to see someone give Spreads a run for her money.
Shelly has learned an important boundary today...not to try and mess with her sister's dog bed spot. She was put in her place by her sis. I can tell my girl is glad to have someone to play with but, like me, still wishes Isabel were here. Shelly will find her place in the pack just like the Spreads did when she came aboard, and we'll all be here to help her.
Welcome aboard Shelly. We're so glad to have you.
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8 comments:
I knew I would find good news to cheer my soul when I came here. Give her a scritch for me!
Here's even more good news! Resident Lincoln Jr. Jr. has emancipated the slaves!
http://shtueynewsnetwork.blogspot.com/
Good to see you back, shtuey! Shelly has what we used to call "airplane ears"- always a good sign for a dog.
We call them matador ears. Isabel had classic matadors as you can see from her Presidential Seal. Shelly has expressive ears too. Floppy, talkative ears are a prerequisite in our pack.
I love reading your posts about dogs. My husband has been a dog trainer for over 25 years and I have trained my share of dogs. You have the same love and philosophy for training dogs as we do, and I so admire your dedication to dogs who need adopting. You're an angel, kiddo.
Sandy, Simon, Gretchen, Zeke, Buck and Mia (The Armstrong Dog Clan)wish your new family member well! Mia is our granddaughter, her dad is Buck, Mia belongs to our daughter who is coming home to the nest once more so she can work on her masters degree!
Gretchen, Zeke and Buck were all rescues. Gretchen was found tied to barbed wire across from our last abode. Zeke is a huge 110 pound chocolate lab that was neglected by his owners...at 8 months he had no manners and would even steal Andy's beer and drink it! (His nickname is Dr. Zeke because he can smell infections- he diagnosed an infection I had several years back, broken bones, and cancer.) Buck is a cocker spaniel registered and the love of my life (He saved my life four years ago! My blood sugar was awful low 55 he woke me up from a dead sleep so I could eat something. I had missed my snack. If he hadn't woke me up I more than likely wouldn't be around to comment here!) He was neglected and not wanted by his owners.
I just couldn't resist sharing my stories. I could write a book!
Good to see you back!
Aww, welcome, beautiful Shelly! I'm happy for you, Shtuey. :)
Plus - she has beautifully glossy fur! All the better to help with the valve openings!
FT
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