Heidi

Elsa

After the untimely and sudden demise of our beloved GSD Heidi in January, after almost ten years for her with MrT and almost six years with me, the void left behind was more than dog-shaped. Why is it that only when someone, or a much-loved pet, departs that we become aware of how many invisible tendrils of love they have created? The out-pouring of touching messages brought much comfort in knowing that others also held her in high esteem and affection.

Such was the silence and sombre mood in ensuing weeks that I chose to 'facilitate' the decision over when and if to consider getting another dog by trawling GSD Rescue, GSD Lifeline and other rescue sites for a GSD bitch. And we found one in the innocent guise of 'Gemma' at the Dogs Trust in Evesham. Her write-up forewarned of apparent aggressive behaviour that masked a loving and kind nature.

We duly trundled off to Evesham to meet her. We asked if we could go alone to begin with and the location of her run was pointed out to us. As we rounded the corner to her run, we were confronted by a large-ish young GSD launching on its hind legs towards the mesh of the cage with much growling, barking and an impressive display of very white, effective-looking teeth. We both instinctively dropped to our haunches and within moments she calmed down, lay down and was rolling around in friendly, submissive mode.

Two more visits followed after which we found ourselves the new owners of 'Elsa' (new start, new name..)

Thanks to MrT's experience and patience, she is gradually morphing under his leadership from ladette to good girl - 'Lady' would be a step too far at this stage!

Her earlier introductions to Sam have not been that great - he is a little too small and rabbit-like, thus exuding great appeal to her hunting instincts. We have decided, especially as he has had recent ill-health and surgery, to delay any further introductions until he is stronger and she is better disciplined.

Once I have mastered the art of uploading pictures I will let you see both Elsa and Sam.

Sandy Stevenson Workshop

In anticipation of attending the Sandy Stevenson workshop in Milton Keynes on Saturday 8th May, Paulette travelled down from Oldham on Thursday and I switched my Friday clinic to Thursday so we could have at least one day together other than the workshop itself. The events for Paulette leading up to that time must be disclosed only by her but assume it was a pivotal time for her! Synchronicity and serendipity in terms of timing of the workshop though!!

We were not disappointed - are we ever?! - with the workshop, Sandy's self-discipline and dedication to her mission and the integrity with which she works. If you also look at Karen Bishop's web site it is clear to see that Mother Earth is wrapping things up!

Another 26,000 years here? Nooooooo, I don't think so. Motivation if ever any was needed to get one's act together now.

On a lighter note, I have been pondering putting together a sampler on the blog of 'The Snoop Sister's School of Skullduggery' about the exploits of a pseudo private detective. Maybe one day Steven Spielberg will see the wisdom in converting it to film. Yes, I AM joking!

Should the sampler manifest, some feedback would be welcomed.......

Passwords 'r Us!

Aren't they a blessing, these password thingies? Blocked out of my own blog because I failed to record my own details..... ah, the joys of ageing!

From 30th September 2009, The Boy was officially adopted so there was a seamless transition as he was already residing with us under foster care. The relief was immense, given the roller-coaster ride we - and the others - had experienced during the 20 months it took to conclude. His identity can now be revealed: The Boy's name is Sam.

The ravages of his earlier life continued to loom large in 2010. During a routine visit to the Medicine Man in January for booster injections it was evident that he needed some dental treatment. This was scheduled for 15th February and proved to be far more serious than anticipated. Six teeth were removed, his gums had to be cut and stitched and stomatitis diagnosed (a condition from which most of the other 13 suffered). His recovery was hampered by nasal bleeding so his stay was extended. He was home briefly (like two days!) before being due back for a check-up and just as we were leaving the house to keep his appointment, he opened the nasal blood-gates once more and had to be immediately handed over to a nurse on arrival.

Thankfully, he was allowed home again after the check up as the bleeding quickly subsided.

All was well for a couple of months until the beginning of this month, May, when his ears began causing problems. He is currently on treatment for that and is due back in a couple of weeks for another check-up!

Will update the situation after that.....