Thursday, May 17, 2012

Quick Update

Just wanted to post a quick update on our new pal Lucky-Jimmy Dog. Um, he is the most incredible dog. He is so sweet and such a lover and cuddler. We've even broken him and he's crawled up on the couch a time or two (as I type he just crawled up there).

After putting him on the e-collar around the yard, he's really settled in to being a great dog. Not that he wasnt before he's just more settled now. He runs from corner to corner of the yard and up and down the driveway, smiling and wagging. Oh, and I've noticed, I'm not sure if anybody else at The Lodge has noticed, that he SMILES. He kind of curls up his lips and smiles. Usually it's when I come home from work at lunch and take down the gate that holds him captive. :)

He doesnt puff and pant anymore and hasnt worn his T-shirt since this weekend.

He is definitely doing much better at the dog park. He's graduated from the long lead to a training collar and is easily called away from a "sticky" situation. He's also removed himself when things start to get tense. Clyde, the large white shepherd that on Monday was a threat, in Lucky-Jimmy Dog's eyes, was a pal today. They cruised past each other, gave a cursory sniff and went on their way. Clyde's mom commented that Hurray! he was off the leash!

Oh, and if you're looking for a dog to chase the ball and actually bring it back, Lucky-Jimmy Dog is your man. I've watched him perform some awesome aerials while attempting to catch the ball. He also drops it quite nicely at your feet, ready for another round.

There was another dog, an Elkhound, who was a little intense. He was on Lucky-Jimmy Dog like a Ramore on a shark. Lucky-Jimmy Dog just kept circling out in ever widening circles - no big deal. The other guys mom and I were very proud of BOTH of our boys for not starting anything with the other.

He has had NO accidents in the house and he sits for his meals and treats. What a joy to have a well trained dog already.

He is getting better with the cats, as well. When he first arrived, he was thrilled to have squirrels in the house to chase. Two of the three cats have begun to start hanging around a little more and not running. We do kennel him at night but dont lock it. In the morning, after Scott leaves, Lucky-Jimmy Dog will push open the door and crawl into bed with me. Usually to a chorus of groans and snarky sounds from the other two dogs on the bed.

That's about it. He's perfect, except for that chronic illness thing. Like I said in a previous blog, if you have the resources, and yes, I do mean financial resources, and you are considering adopting this dog, please talk to your vet BEFORE submitting an application and application fee.

He gets a shot once every 25 days, which from the vet he used to visit, cost $40/month. My vet was saying that it is a little pricier in their office. He also gets 5mg of predisone every day. Lisa Brewer, Owner of Tail Waggin Doggy Day Care said that she heard of a pill to replace the shot. I asked my vet about it, and right or wrong, her opinion was that the pill wasnt nearly as effective at maintaining the dog's levels as the shot was.

I know that his furever family is out there. Take your time, this one is a big decision. Take your time, I really like this guy.

Oh, one more thing... if you're looking for a non-shedding doodle, look away. This guy sheds as bad as my pure Labradors. YIKES! Who cares though? He's so darn wonderful.

Thank you for thinking rescue. Thank you for reading!




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