Hi, Everyone!
Wow, October was a month of contrasts. On one hand, I had lots of “decompression” time. On the other, I had some new, exciting experiences that needed “decompressing” from. So, a perfect PADS pup-in-training month, I’d say!
My favourite new experience was a 3-day North Shore Adventure with raiser Fiona and her family. Fiona is magnificent (see photo)! This was my first stay-over in a new place with a new handler, and I found it very stimulating (especially on Day 1.) It’s possible I did a few rascal behaviours during my adjustment, but Fiona didn’t hold it against me. She knows all about adolescent PADS boys and (extra lucky for me) she knows all about my dad Cleat and his sons – so, she has insight! We went on forest walks and played on the tennis court. I even got to borrow a blue raincoat and play with a yellow frisbee. On my last day, I met up with PADS Betty, when she arrived for her stay-over. See, PADS pups just love spending time with Fiona!
Also, this month, we had some home repairs going on. That was pretty exciting – with trades coming & going, bringing different sights & sounds. I quickly got used to the commotion and tools scattered about. Now, I don’t pay much attention (because I actually sort of expect it.)
So, “decompressing” came in handy. I tried to make the most of my forest walks by exploring more and enjoying long “go sniffs” (which was pretty easy with all the wet leaves and frost to snuffle.) Also, I continued to work on making smooth transitions from high engagement (which I love) to low engagement (which isn’t my favourite.) And ignoring marshmallows on the floor at Safeway is always fun. Plus, lately, I’ve been expanding my nose touch. It’s hilarious! My raiser sticks a yellow magnet on the refrigerator and I BOOF it. She has to remember to take it off or I just keep offering BOOFS.
Oh! And I had great fun at Dagerpaatch Pumpkins for Pups! It was so festive with kids, dogs, live music… and, of course, pumpkin carving, which filled the air with pumpkin scent and the floor with orange pulp. It was also quite a cozy event – the perfect setting for giving “greets” and getting cuddles. I even posed for my first-ever Selfie with a new young friend! PADS Muffin, Mercedes and Strudel were there. Strudel and I exchanged several lingering nose touches (which I liked VERY much.) Plus, Lydia brought homemade yam chips that she shared with all of us!
Thanks so much for checking in on me! In a few days, I have my GDBart Assessment. Jeez, that sounds official. I have no idea what to expect – but it’s on campus, so, it’s sure to be fun. I’ll tell you all about it next time. Until then, decompress, eat yam chips…and go meet Fiona!!
Submitted by: Mikal
