Dune’s 2023 Retrospective:
Some people say, “They make pups cute for a reason.” It must be true! I’ve been called “Dune Clooney,” and just like my namesake, George, I’m a little bit of a trickster. Let’s just say I’m a curious fella who is keeping his raisers on their toes.
The first year of a pup’s life is a BIG one. So here’s a little bit about mine. I joined Catherine and Michael in their home in April, and life has been full-on. I welcomed spring on a little garden patio. A special low fence was installed around the garden to keep me out. And it worked. Until I got taller and more curious.
Spring rolled into summer and we had weekly visits to the local farmers market. We walked on all kinds of cool surfaces and textures down at Vancouver’s Olympic Village. As the season warmed, I got an inflatable pool. Just a mini-splash with sprinklers for a small pup like me. It was fun to dip my paws and to try and catch water drops.
The three of us are always looking for new experiences. I want to be comfortable in all situations. Fire trucks and ambulances are loud, but they don’t scare me. I’ve heard drills, power washers, garbage compactors and leaf blowers. I saw horses near a river and noisy construction sites in the city. I even had a long car drive to Kelowna. I’ve now outgrown the car kennel but still love regular car rides. One day, when we were walking, a kind transit driver stopped and opened the door to ask if we wanted to come on the bus as a new experience. We did it! I’ve now been on the bus three times. I find the vacuum fascinating, though I haven’t quite figured out why it won’t play with me.
I like people, and I like dogs, and I’m working hard not to show too much enthusiasm around them. Crows, squirrels and cats are intriguing, and I manage to keep my cool around them.
The fall and winter of 2023 were cozy. And I learned to relax a little more. After some play, I curl up by the fire or stretch out close by. I love my kennel and nap in there for a good solid rest at some point during the day.
I like shopping, and I am particularly good in the grocery store. I put my working cape on, and I act like a pro. Sometimes people want to reach over and pat me even though I’m a pup-in-training. It’s hard for me when I’m “working” because I’m still young and distractable, and there is still so much more training ahead of me.
I am being raised by a village of people. It’s not only my raisers who take care of me. Volunteers are amazing! Our very own Community Coach supports us (and trims my nails), and Puppy-sitters keep me in their good care. The staff at PADS handle EVERYTHING behind the scenes, and the Trainer we meet with weekly keeps us moving in the right direction. A lot of time and energy goes into my care, and I’m happy you’re here to read my story.
PADS events are full of pups like me. This year, I attended BC Distilled, Lululemon’s Employee Summer Cheers Day and made my premiere TV appearance on Global TV. Look for me. I’d love to see you.
Love,
Dune
Submitted by: Catherine Sprod
