Whitney and Jazz’s Litter – Week Five

Mr. Buff hamming it up!

“The Al Fresco Dining Plan”

Life is good. Not only do the puppies get to spend an unprecedented amount of time outdoors with some of the beautiful weather we’ve been having, but they’re also stylishly dining al fresco. Beneath a giant patio umbrella surrounded by clear blue sky, a gentle breeze and chirping birds, they’re enjoying some of the three meals of the chunky porridge-like concoction they get daily.

Of course there’s a lot more to do outdoors than eat. The puppies also savoured a few naps stretched out in the cool grass. And there’s no shortage of things to explore and sports to play. Some of the gang tried their hand (paws) at rock climbing and others set out in search of twigs and fallen cedar leaves. While Mr. Raven and Miss Crimson were playing a game of chase in the middle of the yard with the others gathered around, Mr. Sapphire wandered off by himself to begin plotting his escape from the compound. He stealthily and decisively began to dig a tunnel under a section of fence. Fortunately he was apprehended in good time and there was no denying his crime with the black paws and dirt smudges on his face. It’s always the quiet ones.

Mr. Sapphire was not alone with his antics. While mother Whitney has been dreaming about reestablishing her place as the princess of our bedroom when her maternal duties are fulfilled, Mr. Buff dreamed up a plan of his own. We’re not sure how he pulled it off, but one day he scaled the slat-wall of the whelping box opening to go on a solo walkabout. His escape however, was quickly thwarted too due to his inability to contain his squeals of delight. Security has been tightened.

This was a good week to make new friends. Miss Marigold and Mr. Zinc spent a good deal of time at the fence line trading licks and glances with our grown up pack. The puppies were all very generous with nibbles and kisses with their two legged family, taking turns to circle us like natives around covered wagons in a western movie or just climb up on our laps. They’re all social butterflies in their own right. This is the beginning of the most influential socialization period for the puppies. They’re learning to communicate with each other and with us by wagging their tails. With the increased control over their facial muscles, the puppies are making expressions and are beginning to reveal their personalities and communicate their opinions. They are craving a lot of attention and affection and fortunately that’s something that’s not hard to provide.

That’s it for now, but be sure to join us next week for another stimulating installment of “Puppy Tales”.