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| Baily and pups playing - can you spot the impostor? |
The Impostor
Little puppies
aren’t good at math at seven weeks of age, but try taking three treats out in
front of an adult Golden and they’ll know full well that you’ve only given them
one or two. On several occasions, the membership of this litter has gone from
eight to nine. The group didn’t seem to notice at first or maybe they just
didn’t mind, but there was an imposter in their midst. A friend who breeds
American Eskimos had a litter on the same day as Bailey that resulted in a
singleton (an only child). Vickie, the three pound minion has been over for
play dates with our puppies to aid in her socialization and just to have some
fun. She was welcomed into the pack by all in true Golden fashion including
Bailey the super-mom, who even allowed little Vickie to nurse.
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| Mr. Mint |
Whether rain or
shine, the gang has been enjoying their outdoor time. Their favourite activities
include gardening or landscaping and rock-climbing. Once they’re all played
out, Messrs. Mint and Rhubarb enjoy lounging on a large rock, watching the
others until all the excitement gradually dwindles and everyone drifts off into
a slumber. It’s easy to spot a sleeping puppy because of the contrasting brown
war paint that they wear on their fur from the mud when it rains, not to
mention that several of them snore when they sleep. It’s interesting to see
them fall asleep on rock piles which reinforces the notion that this group is
not big on comfort and could likely even sleep on a bed of nails.
The group went on a
car-ride this week to visit Dr. Matt the Veterinarian. Everyone passed their
physical exams with flying colours and was very brave as they got their shots. As
expected, they were a big hit eliciting all kinds of oohs and ahhs from the
staff. All were well-behaved in the clinic and relatively quiet in the car for
the journey there and back, but we’re certain we heard one of the puppies
breathe in a sigh of relief as we pulled back into the driveway.
This week, the
puppies had their temperament tests which confirmed that they are an alert,
well-balanced and affectionate bunch who are willing to make friends with
everyone. They are already learning which behavior is allowed as well as where
and when they are going to be fed. They are also becoming used to being groomed
and come running when they’re summoned. They also know that we’re suckers for
their kisses. One of our favourite pastimes is to sit out on the lawn with them
as they crawl over our laps or jump upward like dolphins just to plant a little
kiss on our faces, ever eager to be caressed and loved.
That’s
it for now, but be sure to join us sometime next week for the mesmerizing
conclusion of “Puppy Tales”.
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