Beggin' & Playin'

Andy and Roxy were busy little girls this weekend. We had company drop by unexpectedly so we ended up spending most of today in the backyard. Of course we had lots of snacks and munchies and the girls took every opportunity they could to show each and every single person just how nicely they could sit (yes and expected payment after each one too!).

Before our company arrived I was spending time with Andy and the toy-box.

So far this ball-on-a-rope and a nylabone chew have been the only toys that Andy has shown any interest in. She goes through a few stages too before deciding to play with it. This photo features Andy pretending she's not interested (she has such a funny poker face!).

A few moments later, she decides it 'might' be okay if she lays next to it.

Then she gets that look in her eye where she just knows she wants to nibble on it!

VOILA!

A Little to the Left Please.....

Oh yaaaaaa.....that's the spot!

Andy will do anything for pets and affection. Here she is in the morning getting some lovin' from foster dad.

The other morning while I was in the office, Andy trotted on over and sat beside me. As I typed she kept bumping my arm with her nose "hello mom, stop working and please pet me!" - She was being so cute, how could I not ?!?!

We've been so proud of our Andy - the past 2 days in particular she has been choosing to spend more time with us, and less time in her crate.

Another big step.....She also went to the toybox, picked out a rope ball and started playing with it! Congratulations Andy, you're learning what its like to be a D-O-G!

Lazy Sunday!

After watching a few episodes of the Dog Whisperer, the girls headed to the futon in the office for some "down-time". Andy and Roxy each got their own snuggly throw and made themselves quite comfortable!

Within a matter of minutes, they were both out cold!

Awwwww! How cute are my girls ?!?!

Andy Sits!

Andy is proving to be a VERY quick study! I started working with her on her basic commands and she is picking up on them so fast! So far we've accomplished "sit" "down" and now Andy will sit and "leave" her food until we give her the go-ahead. I'll often pet her while she's eating, and swish my hand around in her food bowl. I can also take away bones and toys right out of her mouth without any incident - she happily surrenders anything I ask for.

We have fostered many dogs; Andy is by far the sweetest creature we've had in our home but she is also one of the most difficult to photograph.

When she sees me reach for my camera, her body goes stiff and she'll try to find someplace to hide. Her eyes stare at me like she is a deer caught in headlights and her pictures just don't do her justice. She is a very happy, timid and sweet girl but its just really hard to show you all what we see everyday given this little phobia.

We'll continue to try to teach her that the camera is not an alien from outer space coming to abduct her, in hopes that we can start showing potential forever homes the face of the true lovebug that she is!

A Monster in my Closet?

Ottawa had quite the thunderstorm last night (at least in Barrhaven anyways!). Our home really felt the vibrations from the thunder and the raindrops were just pelting against the windows - which sent both of our dogs looking for a "safe place."

Our girl Roxy chose her usual under-the-bed hiding spot. Andy thought "oh good idea Roxy" but couldn't understand when she tried to crawl under why her head would fit but the rest of her 50 pound body would not follow?! Silly girl!

Andy remained quiet and calm and looked around the room.....and spotted the closet! Yes, this is where she decided to seek refuge. She was pleasantly surprised when I joined her a few moments later with some peanut butter doggy snaps and her favourite stuffed bear "Lulu". Her eyes lit up and I could tell that she was more than thrilled to have company AND snacks :)


When the storm stopped, both dogs came out to look for us at we were back to business as usual.

Andy's Vet-Check!

Andy was a complete gem today (as usual), letting the vet do a very thorough exam. She even made some friends in the waiting room.....a 6 month old puppy named Kirby and a 2 year old Dane named Shiloh. She has such a calm and relaxed demeanor about her that people and other dogs are just drawn to her. I think if Cesar Millan had the chance to meet this love bug, he would have to agree that Andy portrays a very good "energy".

The vet here estimated her to be in between 3 and 5 years old (so right on queue with the Kentucky vet!). She checked her ears, heart, teeth & joints and other than being a tad on the chubby side (we've started weight watchers!) Andy is a healthy girl.

I think because of her weight and the greying on her muzzle she gives off the appearance that she is older than she is. Perhaps thats why families weren't giving her a second look in the pound (which is so sad because all you need to do is look into her eyes and you'll see how full of love this gorgeous girl is!). Its a known fact: black dogs grey much more quickly than other colors. I can attest to this first hand as my Roxy starting greying around her muzzle when she was only 1 year.

Andy is on a great diet, is receiving regular exercise and some much needed TLC - we can't wait to see what she looks and feels like in a few short weeks!

Welcome to Ottawa Andy!

Andy arrived on September 6th. She had a LOT of traveling to do in a short period of time (made it from Kentucky to Ottawa in 3 days). All of the volunteers that handled her and helped get her safely to rescue had nothing but brilliant things to say about her.

She instantly greeted me with wiggles and kisses, but her ears were pinned back and her head was held lower as if she were unsure if her actions were pleasing me. I reassured her by kneeling down and scratching underneath her chin. Oh - she liked that!

Our first order of business when we got home....A BATH! While the experience was less than enjoyable for Miss. Andy (who was on her best behaviour in the tub might I add!) now that her coat is so clean, soft, shiny and smelling like baby powder we know she is feeling like a million bucks!

Its only been 24 hours, but we've already been on 3 walks. She has excellent leash manners and I can easily manage her with 1 hand. We passed some noisy traffic, families with strollers, kids playing in the park and other dogs. Andy was curious and interested in everything she saw. One little girl, probably around the age of 5 asked if she could pet her. Andy sniffed the little girl's hand and kissed it. The little girl gave her a quick pat and said "nice doggy" and Andy's body wiggled with glee.

She has a very mellow, laid back personality and often seeks comfort in the large crate in our bedroom. She hasn't had any accidents and we have yet to hear her make a peep. Andy is adjusting very well and we're going to continue to give her the time she needs to settle in with us.

Please check back! I'll provide another update soon!