tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-55748264661198643072024-03-13T11:33:01.964-07:00The Puppy Raising JourneyThe Story of a Guide Dog Puppy in TrainingLaurenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14424954284785857607noreply@blogger.comBlogger67125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5574826466119864307.post-32336071901333175632012-06-20T19:27:00.001-07:002012-06-20T19:27:29.231-07:00Birthday Boy!<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
Guess who turned 3 years old last month??? DON! It's hard to believe that he's already 3 years old. Katrina and I were invited to Don (Sanford)'s birthday party and we had a great time. We even managed to get all ten (give or take.. I can't remember exactly how many dogs there were) dogs lined up (in party hats!) for a picture. Katrina's a pretty shy dog, so she spent most of the party hanging around me (or snoozing in her crate). </div>
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Below, Don digs into his cake. I wish I had a close up picture- each doggy cupcake had a bone on top. Katrina loved hers :)</div>
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Then it was time for the humans to eat cake, too. Don's owner had made an awesome cake in the shape of a pawprint.. yum!!<br />
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Then, it was onto the party games. There was Don Trivia, Bingo, musical chairs (well, mats) with dogs, and more. They had made a collage of pictures of Don from when he was a puppy in training to recent pictures in his new home.<br />
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As always, I was reminded of what a perfect home Don has. How many people throw birthday parties for their dogs?? Don is definitely one happy dog.</div>
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On to Katrina, she is her sweet, lovable self as usual. She's still quite the cuddlebug and belly-rub seeker. She is currently under my desk lying on her back so as to be in the prime position for belly rubbing. Katrina is pretty proud of her latest accomplishment: she has learned how to open the door to my dad's office by shoving her nose into the door, then proceeds to lay down (belly up) for some tummy rubbing. She knows my dad will give her a belly rub, even if its with his foot as he talks to someone on the phone. Smart girl :)<br />
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Hope everyone is doing well! Happy summer!Laurenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14424954284785857607noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5574826466119864307.post-59874455138761453512012-04-29T18:25:00.002-07:002012-04-29T18:26:37.967-07:00Success! Apparently, May is National Pets Month. According to a T-shirt I have, it is also National Guide Dog Month. And, for Katrina, May is officially.... "Learn to Love the Gentle Leader! Month". Whatever May might be, Katrina is off to a good start (I know, we still have a couple days till may :D )<br />
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Today, we went for a <i>long </i>walk to downtown. I wasn't so sure how Katrina would do, because she's never gone on a walk that long. She was great with the loud noises from the freeway and traffic downtown. We saw some dogs, lots of bicyclists, and runners. She was great! I'm working on her pulling with the flat collar, so all the distractions were a great opportunity for some practice. At the meeting, we practiced being more "random" with our movements on walks- like suddenly changing directions or stopping. We practiced that a bit and it seemed to work!<br />
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Once we were in downtown, Katrina was absolutely exhausted. I don't blame her- it was a beautiful, hot day, and the floor of the restaurant we were in was nice and cool. I was pretty sure she was not up for an equally lengthy and hot walk back home, so my brother came and picked us up :) Katrina was pretty happy about that.<br />
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Back at home, and after Katrina took a nice hour long nap, we went into the backyard to work with the Gentle Leader. The back yard has always been off limits with Katrina; as a young pup she would eat <i>everything </i>on the ground, and the grass and tanbark was just too tempting. But! She seems to have gotten over the "if it fits in my mouth, its food! yum, dirt!" stage. I put her GL on and took out a tug toy, and she was thrilled to be running around in the previously "forbidden backyard". This was a big step for Katrina- normally the second the GL goes on, she plops down and sulks. We played for a good 10 minutes, racing all up and down the yard. We practiced some off leash come, too. I got her so excited that when I picked up her leash and said "let's go" she didn't even notice the GL on her face... so I just continued walking up our street, and voila! She was finally walking with the GL!<br />
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(Above, Katrina smells the flowers in the garden)</div>
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I didn't want to push her too far, so our walk of victory was over in about 30 seconds, but I am hopeful!<br />
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Well, there is my story of Katrina's success today! She's such a sweet girl, sometimes it's hard to notice her stubborness, but it's there :) Today I think we got one step closer to tolerating the GL! Stay tuned!<br />
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(Above, Katrina on a walk. Katrina hopes everyone is enjoying the summer weather!)</div>
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~Lauren and Katrina<br />
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<br />Laurenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14424954284785857607noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5574826466119864307.post-60641420889122849252012-04-28T20:12:00.002-07:002012-04-28T20:12:42.402-07:00Catch-Up Post #1: Outings, Photoshoot, and more!I love this dog so much! Katrina and I have been very busy lately! She's changed a lot since I picked her up at 14 weeks, but she still has the same loving personality! She is a total cuddlebug and very people oriented. <div>
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To sum up what Katrina and I have been doing:</div>
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1) Katrina got over her doggy fears! She used to shy away from dogs in public, but not anymore! She's still pretty scared in group play, but our CFR said that wasn't the biggest concern.</div>
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2) I started taking Katrina around my high school more often and to track meets. She loves hanging out with my friends. She especially loves saying hi to little kids.. it's like she knows to lay down so she doesn't intimidate them :) She's a sweetheart.</div>
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3) I'm talking to my principal on Monday to discuss bringing Katrina to school! My teachers said is was OK, but fingers and paws crossed that the principal approves.</div>
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4) Katrina has been on a couple big outings for her: these include a college fair (which was probably more scary for me than for her haha). She was great with all the crowds! </div>
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5) Katrina had her first evaluation with our CFR. She did really well walking around in the downtown area, and handled the open stairs like a pro! I definitely have some work to do with the Gentle Leader...which leads me to my next point!</div>
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6) Katrina's biggest enemy is her gentle leader. She absolutely hates it. So.. May is officially "Learn to Love the Gentle Leader!" month for Katrina. So far, we are off to a good start! We've been playing fun activities with the GL, like "come" and tug outside around the yard. </div>
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Yesterday was the submission deadline for the GDB calendar. So, I decided to take Katrina for a photoshoot at the bay. I got a couple of good shots: (Pictured below: Katrina in front of the Golden Gate, with her puppy vest on)</div>
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Pretty girl :) </div>
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She has the sweetest smile!</div>
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Katrina exploring the rocks!</div>
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On another note, earlier this month Katrina went to the puppysitters while I was out of town. Below is the beautiful Delicate Arch in Utah. If you haven't been there, you should go! It's amazing!<br />
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Back to my puppy:<br />
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Here she is last week. We were getting ready to go to the puppy meeting. We had a meeting today and we had to walk our puppies on a lose leash while balancing a plate of easter eggs in the same hand that we were holding the leash in. It was hard, but so much fun! And hilarious! </div>
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Above is the Suzanne/Jenkins Special "K" litter. Kristin, Mommy Suzanne, Keith, and Katrina. They are all amazing puppies with amazing raisers! It was great to meet up with them at a GDB graduation. I barely recognize GDB now because of the renovations. Guide Dogs is remodeling their dormitory/graduation building. It is going to be great when they are finished! I can't wait to see it!</div>
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Above, Katrina is holding a toy in the GDB play yard. Katrina thinks this could make a nice ad for Nylabone :)</div>
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Katrina has an exciting week coming up! I'm taking her to her first Giants baseball game, and then we are off to see Don (now Sanford) and his owners for his 3rd birthday party. He is such a lucky boy! Every time I see him with his owners it reminds me how great the GDB community is! </div>
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Have a good week!</div>
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~ Lauren and Katrina</div>
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<br /></div>Laurenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14424954284785857607noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5574826466119864307.post-26705806020214221362012-02-21T17:39:00.005-08:002012-02-21T19:38:53.820-08:00What a Great First Month!<div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-SvIVnbyQegc/T0RXJKC1kJI/AAAAAAAABcc/TxP3LKK5zOk/s1600/DSC04746.JPG" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 400px; height: 300px;" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-SvIVnbyQegc/T0RXJKC1kJI/AAAAAAAABcc/TxP3LKK5zOk/s400/DSC04746.JPG" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5711786042239324306" /></a><br />I know, I know.. it's been quite a while since I posted :) I've been having such a great time with Katrina, I haven't found time to post! She is such a special girl and I know we are going to have an amazing year together, we have already bonded really well :) Katrina is now 4 1/2 months (!!!). I can't believe how fast she is growing up. In honor of her being 4 months, here is a list of the 4 things I love most about her:<div><br /><div><span class="Apple-tab-span" style="white-space:pre"> </span>1) She is a total cuddlebug. She loves to sit in your lap (especially in the sun) for as long as you'll let her. I swear, she thinks she's a cat :)</div><div><span class="Apple-tab-span" style="white-space:pre"> </span>2) She's a people-dog. When she see's you, she wags her tail like crazy and gets the wiggles all up and down her body. Her ears quiver with excitement and she tries to kiss your face all over.</div><div><span class="Apple-tab-span" style="white-space:pre"> </span>3) She has really, really, really soft ears. And a cute little puppy tummy. I love seeing her happy face in the morning when I open up her crate door, and I love how she charges out of there like it's been <i>forever </i>since she last saw me.. plus, what could be better than puppy kisses to wake you up in the morning?</div><div><span class="Apple-tab-span" style="white-space:pre"> </span>4) She's a smart little girl. Sometimes, too smart for her own good. She's the only dog I've had that's figured out how to open up the x-pen (she lunges her body against the gate, and pushes and pushes until she can escape... then proudly trots around the house).</div><div><br /></div><div><span class="Apple-tab-span" style="white-space:pre"> </span>I know I said 4, but I thought of one other thing she does that I love. She has the certain trot she does when she's proud; she will take her toy and strut around the house with her tail held up high, wagging back and forth. It's hilarious. </div><div><br /></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="-webkit-text-decorations-in-effect: underline; "><img src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-C7FTPMfpCuA/T0RfVqueTXI/AAAAAAAABcw/-JoASx9ZSiE/s400/DSC04619.JPG" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5711795053263736178" style="display: block; margin-top: 0px; margin-right: auto; margin-bottom: 10px; margin-left: auto; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 300px; " /></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="-webkit-text-decorations-in-effect: underline; "><br /></span></div><div><span class="Apple-tab-span" style="white-space:pre"> </span>Katrina has been making a lot of progress lately! She has been going on more and more outings lately and has stopped refusing to walk (yay! makes outings a lot more enjoyable, for her and me!). In fact, she LOVES walking. Today, we went for a 2 hour outing to a neighborhood restaurant and around town. This week Katrina has been going to lots of new places- the farmers market, Trader Joes, Target, Macy's, and shopping malls. She's learning down and stay, and working on her "come". She is really a mature girl for her age. If things keep going well, I'm thinking that I'll see about her accompanying me to school sometime within the next month or so. I've also decided to join the Guide Dogs speakers bureau- I can talk about Guide Dogs for hours upon hours, so I think that will be a fun opportunity for me and Katrina. A puppy raiser in our club has been involved with the speakers bureau for some time and she told me how she visited a preschool, which sounded like lots of fun.</div></div><div><br /></div><div>I have this week off, so I'm hoping to spend a lot of time with Katrina and work on some things with her. Another guide dog puppy from our club will be spending some time with us so that Katrina can get used to other dogs; she's been pretty cautious around dogs before, so I want to help her become more comfortable around other dogs while she's young. There's been a couple times where dogs approached her head-on, and she hid next to me. Lately though, she's been a lot more curious (about everything!). She's walking up to dogs on her own accord and calmly saying hello, which is great to see. </div><div><br /></div><div>Now, for some photos:</div><div><br /></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="-webkit-text-decorations-in-effect: underline; "><img src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-NwQsZ7w_JTw/T0RgZtkxUJI/AAAAAAAABd4/eCkm2l3q8uc/s400/DSC04539.JPG" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5711796222259450002" style="display: block; margin-top: 0px; margin-right: auto; margin-bottom: 10px; margin-left: auto; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 300px; " /></span></div><div style="text-align: center;">Above, Katrina in my mom's arms. Cuddlebug!</div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="-webkit-text-decorations-in-effect: underline; "><span class="Apple-style-span" style="-webkit-text-decorations-in-effect: underline; "><img src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-JMvapZJZlpg/T0RgZFiWBuI/AAAAAAAABds/xd6Flv-RygI/s400/DSC04698.JPG" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5711796211511854818" style="display: block; margin-top: 0px; margin-right: auto; margin-bottom: 10px; margin-left: auto; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 300px; " /></span></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="-webkit-text-decorations-in-effect: underline; "><span class="Apple-style-span" style="-webkit-text-decorations-in-effect: underline; ">I love the expression on her face.</span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="-webkit-text-decorations-in-effect: underline; "><span class="Apple-style-span" style="-webkit-text-decorations-in-effect: underline; "><span class="Apple-style-span" style="-webkit-text-decorations-in-effect: underline; "><img src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-rGD-zOWCDdw/T0RfXvo0-FI/AAAAAAAABdU/wv4msf12Nok/s400/DSC04862.JPG" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5711795088941971538" style="display: block; margin-top: 0px; margin-right: auto; margin-bottom: 10px; margin-left: auto; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 300px; " /></span></span></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="-webkit-text-decorations-in-effect: underline; "><span class="Apple-style-span" style="-webkit-text-decorations-in-effect: underline; "><span class="Apple-style-span" style="-webkit-text-decorations-in-effect: underline; ">Katrina holding her puppy teething keys :) I think was probably the only time she picked these up... not sure why, but she really isn't a fan of these. She'd much rather play with an empty milk jug.</span></span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="-webkit-text-decorations-in-effect: underline; "><span class="Apple-style-span" style="-webkit-text-decorations-in-effect: underline; "><span class="Apple-style-span" style="-webkit-text-decorations-in-effect: underline; "><span class="Apple-style-span" style="-webkit-text-decorations-in-effect: underline; "><img src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-wOesjPmSXbA/T0RfW59oEwI/AAAAAAAABdI/YI5KaysYbFc/s400/DSC04587.JPG" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5711795074533692162" style="display: block; margin-top: 0px; margin-right: auto; margin-bottom: 10px; margin-left: auto; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 300px; " /></span></span></span></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="-webkit-text-decorations-in-effect: underline; "><span class="Apple-style-span" style="-webkit-text-decorations-in-effect: underline; "><span class="Apple-style-span" style="-webkit-text-decorations-in-effect: underline; "><span class="Apple-style-span" style="-webkit-text-decorations-in-effect: underline; ">Snoozing in my lap :)</span></span></span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="-webkit-text-decorations-in-effect: underline; "><span class="Apple-style-span" style="-webkit-text-decorations-in-effect: underline; "><span class="Apple-style-span" style="-webkit-text-decorations-in-effect: underline; "><span class="Apple-style-span" style="-webkit-text-decorations-in-effect: underline; "><span class="Apple-style-span" style="-webkit-text-decorations-in-effect: underline; "><img src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-A-62RSktciM/T0RfV_h9B1I/AAAAAAAABc8/uzhVVQEQeKI/s400/DSC04747.JPG" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5711795058848368466" style="display: block; margin-top: 0px; margin-right: auto; margin-bottom: 10px; margin-left: auto; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 300px; " /></span></span></span></span></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="-webkit-text-decorations-in-effect: underline; "><span class="Apple-style-span" style="-webkit-text-decorations-in-effect: underline; "><span class="Apple-style-span" style="-webkit-text-decorations-in-effect: underline; "><span class="Apple-style-span" style="-webkit-text-decorations-in-effect: underline; "><span class="Apple-style-span" style="-webkit-text-decorations-in-effect: underline; ">Katrina says "Stop and smell the roses". I love this picture :) </span></span></span></span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="-webkit-text-decorations-in-effect: underline; "><span class="Apple-style-span" style="-webkit-text-decorations-in-effect: underline; "><span class="Apple-style-span" style="-webkit-text-decorations-in-effect: underline; "><span class="Apple-style-span" style="-webkit-text-decorations-in-effect: underline; "><span class="Apple-style-span" style="-webkit-text-decorations-in-effect: underline; "><span class="Apple-style-span" style="-webkit-text-decorations-in-effect: underline; "><img src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-Jb0k-yW_eKk/T0RgYj0md8I/AAAAAAAABdg/-cOi7_Fcikg/s400/DSC04820.JPG" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5711796202461624258" style="display: block; margin-top: 0px; margin-right: auto; margin-bottom: 10px; margin-left: auto; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 300px; " /></span></span></span></span></span></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="-webkit-text-decorations-in-effect: underline; "><span class="Apple-style-span" style="-webkit-text-decorations-in-effect: underline; "><span class="Apple-style-span" style="-webkit-text-decorations-in-effect: underline; "><span class="Apple-style-span" style="-webkit-text-decorations-in-effect: underline; "><span class="Apple-style-span" style="-webkit-text-decorations-in-effect: underline; "><span class="Apple-style-span" style="-webkit-text-decorations-in-effect: underline; ">I decided to do a photoshoot of Katrina by the bay. Here she is posing with her puppy jacket on. Beautiful girl!</span></span></span></span></span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="-webkit-text-decorations-in-effect: underline; "><span class="Apple-style-span" style="-webkit-text-decorations-in-effect: underline; "><span class="Apple-style-span" style="-webkit-text-decorations-in-effect: underline; "><span class="Apple-style-span" style="-webkit-text-decorations-in-effect: underline; "><span class="Apple-style-span" style="-webkit-text-decorations-in-effect: underline; "><span class="Apple-style-span" style="-webkit-text-decorations-in-effect: underline; "><span class="Apple-style-span" style="-webkit-text-decorations-in-effect: underline; "><img src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-cIXbm1YKflk/T0RXItxQriI/AAAAAAAABcM/tQF8vQ7PA0k/s400/DSC04808.JPG" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5711786034649411106" style="display: block; margin-top: 0px; margin-right: auto; margin-bottom: 10px; margin-left: auto; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 300px; " /></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="-webkit-text-decorations-in-effect: underline; "><span class="Apple-style-span" style="-webkit-text-decorations-in-effect: underline; "><span class="Apple-style-span" style="-webkit-text-decorations-in-effect: underline; "><span class="Apple-style-span" style="-webkit-text-decorations-in-effect: underline; "><span class="Apple-style-span" style="-webkit-text-decorations-in-effect: underline; "><span class="Apple-style-span" style="-webkit-text-decorations-in-effect: underline; "><span class="Apple-style-span" style="-webkit-text-decorations-in-effect: underline; ">I love that smile.</span></span></span></span></span></span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="-webkit-text-decorations-in-effect: underline; "><span class="Apple-style-span" style="-webkit-text-decorations-in-effect: underline; "><span class="Apple-style-span" style="-webkit-text-decorations-in-effect: underline; "><span class="Apple-style-span" style="-webkit-text-decorations-in-effect: underline; "><span class="Apple-style-span" style="-webkit-text-decorations-in-effect: underline; "><span class="Apple-style-span" style="-webkit-text-decorations-in-effect: underline; "><span class="Apple-style-span" style="-webkit-text-decorations-in-effect: underline; "><span class="Apple-style-span" style="-webkit-text-decorations-in-effect: underline; "><img src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-xUb7Y87szPo/T0RXJm-7qLI/AAAAAAAABck/oJ_F9BvFLSU/s400/DSC04812.JPG" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5711786050007574706" style="display: block; margin-top: 0px; margin-right: auto; margin-bottom: 10px; margin-left: auto; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 300px; " /></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></div><div style="text-align: center;">Happy girl :)</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;">Puppies grow up <i><b>way</b></i> too fast!</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;">Hope everyone's doing well!</div><div style="text-align: center;">-Lauren and Katrina</div><div><span class="Apple-tab-span" style="white-space:pre"> </span></div>Laurenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14424954284785857607noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5574826466119864307.post-59760457387769478602012-01-15T10:06:00.000-08:002012-01-16T14:21:26.958-08:00Introducing...<div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color:#0000EE;"><u><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color:#000000;"><br /></span></u></span></div><div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: rgb(0, 0, 238); -webkit-text-decorations-in-effect: underline; "><img src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-Am01Xs6eInM/TxIrCp_OVhI/AAAAAAAABZc/RQPYBeKe6QM/s400/DSC04315_2.JPG" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5697663803207865874" style="display: block; margin-top: 0px; margin-right: auto; margin-bottom: 10px; margin-left: auto; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 282px; height: 400px; " /></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="-webkit-text-decorations-in-effect: underline; "><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color:#330033;"><b><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:x-large;">KATRINA!</span></b></span></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><b><i><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color:#339999;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:large;">Suzanne/Jenkins 10.8.11 Right Shoulder Female Yellow Lab</span></span></i></b></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;"><b><br /></b></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;"><b>Happiness is a warm [guide dog] puppy.</b></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;"><b><br /></b></span></div><div style="text-align: left;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'times new roman';">There is something about being handed a warm, squiggling bundle of fur that makes everything seem right with the world. Thursday was quite the memorable day for me. Knowing that I was driving over to Guide Dogs right after school got out, it was such a long day. My friends probably got sick of me talking about my little Ms. K every minute (I kinda got carried away looking up my pup's parents and grandparents </span></span><i><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'times new roman';">and </span></span></i><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'times new roman';">greatgrandparents..</span></span><i><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'times new roman';"> It just so happens that I know the breeder keeper of my pup's grandfather, Russo,</span></span></i><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'times new roman';">.. my friends don't exactly see the excitement in that news).. but new puppy thoughts definitely took precedence over atomic theory and chemistry equations :)</span></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'times new roman';"> </span></span></div><div style="text-align: left;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'times new roman';"><br /></span></span></div><div style="text-align: left;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'times new roman';">At Guide Dogs I waited not-so-patiently for my new puppy. In the kennel kitchen I saw the bag with "Katrina" on it. I love this pretty name. When I got my puppy assignment for letter "K" I was worried Guide Dogs might name a dog "Kat" haha- it was a close call! </span></span></div><div style="text-align: left;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'times new roman';"><br /></span></span></div><div style="text-align: left;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'times new roman';">Waiting with me in the kennel kitchen was my family and Don's owner. As you may remember, Don (my first puppy) was career changed and adopted by his instructor at Guide Dogs. It is the perfect home for him and we've stayed in touch. </span></span></div><div style="text-align: left;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'times new roman';"><br /></span></span></div><div style="text-align: left;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'times new roman';">So, there was quite a large crowd waiting for little Katrina to arrive.... Time never passes so slowly than when waiting for a guide dog puppy... then the door swung upon and a tech walked in carrying my puppy in her arms. She asked for someone strong to hold her, she so was so big. But fr 13 weeks, she's a petite little girl. </span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="-webkit-text-decorations-in-effect: underline; "><span class="Apple-style-span" style="-webkit-text-decorations-in-effect: underline; "><img src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-F1RgZ2PaeiI/TxImjInFppI/AAAAAAAABZA/FM_NupPeCM8/s400/DSC04287.JPG" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5697658863625807506" style="display: block; margin-top: 0px; margin-right: auto; margin-bottom: 10px; margin-left: auto; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 300px; height: 400px; " /></span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="-webkit-text-decorations-in-effect: underline; "><span class="Apple-style-span" style="-webkit-text-decorations-in-effect: underline; "><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'times new roman';">Puppy love is like no other! Katrina put her paws on my chest and gave me a big kiss :) What a sweetheart. She was so happy to be pet and cuddled in my arms- it was adorable. She is a beautiful color- more of a tawny, golden color; her coloring is pretty similar to Don's when he was a pup. She's got a little pink spot on her lips that looks like lipstick, the softest ears, and a tiny speckled nose.</span></span></span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="-webkit-text-decorations-in-effect: underline; "><span class="Apple-style-span" style="-webkit-text-decorations-in-effect: underline; "><span class="Apple-style-span" style="-webkit-text-decorations-in-effect: underline; "><img src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-Z1Z6S0EVN08/TxInSCs_woI/AAAAAAAABZM/FVcNG4gN7-M/s400/DSC04308.JPG" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5697659669493826178" style="display: block; margin-top: 0px; margin-right: auto; margin-bottom: 10px; margin-left: auto; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 300px; " /></span></span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="-webkit-text-decorations-in-effect: underline; "><span class="Apple-style-span" style="-webkit-text-decorations-in-effect: underline; "><span class="Apple-style-span" style="-webkit-text-decorations-in-effect: underline; "><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'times new roman';">Katrina was a bit shell-shocked out in the "real world". Above, the guide dog puppy "veterans" check out the new guy :) Do you recognize the dog on the left? It's Don! (now Sanford). It was great to see him and have him meet Katrina. Don still does the same happy dance with his ears :) </span></span></span></span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="-webkit-text-decorations-in-effect: underline; "><span class="Apple-style-span" style="-webkit-text-decorations-in-effect: underline; "><span class="Apple-style-span" style="-webkit-text-decorations-in-effect: underline; "><span class="Apple-style-span" style="-webkit-text-decorations-in-effect: underline; "><img src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-JofDmeTCzxc/TxIrErxpVlI/AAAAAAAABZ8/65Le7DznkYg/s400/DSC04354.JPG" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5697663838047524434" style="display: block; margin-top: 0px; margin-right: auto; margin-bottom: 10px; margin-left: auto; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 300px; " /></span></span></span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="-webkit-text-decorations-in-effect: underline; "><span class="Apple-style-span" style="-webkit-text-decorations-in-effect: underline; "><span class="Apple-style-span" style="-webkit-text-decorations-in-effect: underline; "><span class="Apple-style-span" style="-webkit-text-decorations-in-effect: underline; "><p class="MsoNormal"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'times new roman';">Back at home, I discovered what a little cuddlebug Katrina is! She wants to be with you every second, with her head on your lap or (her favorite) sitting on your lap and staring right at you... like "hey, lets have a talk!". </span></span></p></span></span></span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="-webkit-text-decorations-in-effect: underline; "><span class="Apple-style-span" style="-webkit-text-decorations-in-effect: underline; "><span class="Apple-style-span" style="-webkit-text-decorations-in-effect: underline; "><span class="Apple-style-span" style="-webkit-text-decorations-in-effect: underline; "><img src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-MChlh7pP0i8/TxIrDuKsgaI/AAAAAAAABZk/qfuNxJr5VBk/s400/DSC04327.JPG" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5697663821509591458" style="display: block; margin-top: 0px; margin-right: auto; margin-bottom: 10px; margin-left: auto; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 300px; " /></span></span></span></span></div><div><p class="MsoNormal"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'times new roman';">So far, she hasn't been very mouthy (knock on wood!). We've been working on pottying on command (today I think we're finally getting there!) and sit (she's so cute- she sits and then when you tell her "good job" she gets so happy she runs to you and plops herself on your lap :D ).</span></span></p></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="-webkit-text-decorations-in-effect: underline; "><img src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-0MNeHbwZl0A/TxIrE7JqgwI/AAAAAAAABaI/0kjfp9Yqkw0/s400/DSC04379.JPG" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5697663842174796546" style="display: block; margin-top: 0px; margin-right: auto; margin-bottom: 10px; margin-left: auto; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 300px; " /></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="-webkit-text-decorations-in-effect: underline; "><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'times new roman';"><br /></span></span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="-webkit-text-decorations-in-effect: underline; "><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'times new roman';">She is such a little cutie! But put her on a tie down or in her crate, and you will hear it! She's quite the vocal little girl.. we're working on it though. As hard as it is to ignore her adorableness, I think we will need some more "ignore the adorable puppy!" sessions.</span></span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="-webkit-text-decorations-in-effect: underline; "><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'times new roman';"><br /></span></span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="-webkit-text-decorations-in-effect: underline; "><img src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-OUm29fis-FE/TxIrENzyUVI/AAAAAAAABZw/WPXOb0uRDZg/s400/DSC04348.JPG" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5697663830003437906" style="display: block; margin-top: 0px; margin-right: auto; margin-bottom: 10px; margin-left: auto; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 300px; " /></span></div></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="-webkit-text-decorations-in-effect: underline; "><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'times new roman';"><br /></span></span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="-webkit-text-decorations-in-effect: underline; "><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'times new roman';">Above, I think Katrina finally realized that the "tie-down monster" wasn't going to eat her :) She was a tired puppy after her first day at home, and slept soundly through the night. </span></span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="-webkit-text-decorations-in-effect: underline; "><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'times new roman';"><br /></span></span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="-webkit-text-decorations-in-effect: underline; "><img src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-lcN8gnBFbZ0/TxI6Ta5qmSI/AAAAAAAABag/XZLUl95Dr1M/s400/DSC04415.JPG" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5697680583890213154" style="display: block; margin-top: 0px; margin-right: auto; margin-bottom: 10px; margin-left: auto; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 300px; height: 400px; " /></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'times new roman';"><br /></span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'times new roman';">Saturday morning, Katrina attended her first puppy meeting. She was a very good girl. She has a softer personality, but was fine being in new surroundings. She got to meet Bella, a 10 week old black lab puppy; they were so cute together!</span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'times new roman';"><br /></span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="-webkit-text-decorations-in-effect: underline; "><img src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-VOedtTMd99c/TxI6T9E86HI/AAAAAAAABas/Pj798vhmF9U/s400/DSC04423.JPG" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5697680593064355954" style="display: block; margin-top: 0px; margin-right: auto; margin-bottom: 10px; margin-left: auto; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 300px; " /></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="-webkit-text-decorations-in-effect: underline; "><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'times new roman';">Then, on to her first outing- Panera Bread! Our group of 4 adorable puppies was quite the attraction in the restaurant. Lots of people came up to pet Katrina, and she did great. She was so exhausted that she fell right asleep, next to her "mentor" </span></span><a href="http://puppyraisinginpointrichmond.blogspot.com/"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color:#000000;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'times new roman';">France</span></span></span></a><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'times new roman';">, a 1 year old black lab. Good dogs!</span></span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="-webkit-text-decorations-in-effect: underline; "><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-4KOKw84V7Fc/TxI6TCbdZuI/AAAAAAAABaU/K-mCDm7fkLc/s1600/DSC04392.JPG" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}"><img src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-4KOKw84V7Fc/TxI6TCbdZuI/AAAAAAAABaU/K-mCDm7fkLc/s400/DSC04392.JPG" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5697680577321068258" style="display: block; margin-top: 0px; margin-right: auto; margin-bottom: 10px; margin-left: auto; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 300px; " /></a></span></div><div><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'times new roman';">Back at home, Katrina was not very happy to be put on her tie down.</span></span></div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="-webkit-text-decorations-in-effect: underline; "><span class="Apple-style-span" style="-webkit-text-decorations-in-effect: underline; "><img src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-fp-If_B6K0Y/TxMWGX4Nv1I/AAAAAAAABbE/11ptbBDfkpQ/s400/DSC04408.JPG" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5697922252298633042" style="display: block; margin-top: 0px; margin-right: auto; margin-bottom: 10px; margin-left: auto; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 300px; " /></span></span></div><div><p class="MsoNormal" align="center" style="text-align:center;mso-pagination:none; mso-layout-grid-align:none;text-autospace:none"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'times new roman';"><br /></span></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" align="center" style="text-align:center;mso-pagination:none; mso-layout-grid-align:none;text-autospace:none"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'times new roman';">But she soon fell fast asleep!</span></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" align="center" style="text-align:center;mso-pagination:none; mso-layout-grid-align:none;text-autospace:none"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'times new roman';"><br /></span></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" align="center" style="text-align:center;mso-pagination:none; mso-layout-grid-align:none;text-autospace:none"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'times new roman';">A tired puppy is a good puppy :)</span></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" align="center" style="text-align:center;mso-pagination:none; mso-layout-grid-align:none;text-autospace:none"><b><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'times new roman';"><br /></span></span></b></p><p class="MsoNormal" align="center" style="text-align:center;mso-pagination:none; mso-layout-grid-align:none;text-autospace:none"><b><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'times new roman';">We're having a lot of fun together! </span></span></b></p><p class="MsoNormal" align="center" style="text-align:center;mso-pagination:none; mso-layout-grid-align:none;text-autospace:none"><b><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'times new roman';">She is a sweetheart and I'm looking forward to a wonderful year together. Let the puppy raising journey begin, round 2!</span></span></b></p> <!--EndFragment--> </div>Laurenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14424954284785857607noreply@blogger.com11tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5574826466119864307.post-42171148205695984472012-01-12T11:51:00.000-08:002012-01-12T12:01:36.612-08:00Puppy Assignment!<span style="color: rgb(102, 0, 204);font-size:180%;" >Suzanne/Jenkins 10.8.11 "K"</span><br /><br />I'm so excited for my new puppy! I can't even tell you how much I've missed puppy breath :) In a couple hours I will have my new pup :) Get ready for a photo filled post!Laurenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14424954284785857607noreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5574826466119864307.post-15266703747596744292012-01-01T17:52:00.000-08:002012-01-01T18:32:15.593-08:00I'M GETTING A NEW PUPPY!!!Sooo I might not have been the best blogger these past couple months, but I'M BACK... and I will have a new puppy to raise in 2 weeks! Long story short, this past year was rather hectic with school, sports, and my other animal/vet volunteer activities. I was hoping to get a new pup right after Don left but things were just too busy. Luckily, thanks to puppysitting, I wasn't always puppy-less :) As the title of the post might suggest, I am so excited to be raising a puppy again :) I can't imagine a better way to kickoff 2012!<div><br /></div><div>More details are on the way! Plus some good news about Don, pics of the puppies I've been sitting, and.. best of all.. my puppy assignment! (maybe a name game/ contest too)</div><div><br /></div><div>Stay tuned!</div><div><br /><div><div><br /></div><div> </div></div></div>Laurenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14424954284785857607noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5574826466119864307.post-72732516665982287742011-05-08T00:28:00.000-07:002011-05-08T00:31:20.814-07:00Happy 2nd Birthday, Don!Happy 2nd Birthday Don! I can't believe its been 2 years since this special boy came into the world!Laurenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14424954284785857607noreply@blogger.com7tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5574826466119864307.post-86095277881490998062011-04-29T16:36:00.000-07:002011-04-29T16:42:08.781-07:00A Different Kind of Happy Ending<div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-Nv4TcJI86r8/TbtL0BOP-jI/AAAAAAAABXc/o8ER3gcGJHk/s1600/harness2.jpg" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}"></a><span class="Apple-tab-span" style="white-space:pre"> </span>It's been a couple weeks now since I got the call from my leader that Don was career changed. It came as such a shock; after passing phase 8, being deemed class ready, and performing as the 'demo dog' at a GDB graduation, I had little doubt my big boy would be up on the stage in a few weeks... but things didn't work out that way. Hearing that news was devastating- I felt drained and exhausted. I couldn't think of anything but the words career change over and over; it was all over- Don wouldn't be matched with a blind person, Don wouldn't change someone's life, I wouldn't get to hand his leash over or watch him walk off guiding someone... <div><span class="Apple-tab-span" style="white-space: pre; "> </span></div><div><span class="Apple-tab-span" style="white-space: pre; "></span><span class="Apple-tab-span" style="white-space:pre"> </span>But as my mind cleared up, as the reality of things set in, and as things got a little less muddy, I saw the "woulds"... Don would go on to change someone's life (and already has :D ), Don would be happy, Don would continue to be a positive example of, and advocate, for GDB, Don would being doing what HE loves and what HE wants to do, and that Don would make a very good pet for someone. And when I found out who that someone would be, I couldn't have been any happier. <div><span class="Apple-tab-span" style="white-space: pre; "> </span></div><div><span class="Apple-tab-span" style="white-space: pre; "><span class="Apple-tab-span" style="white-space:pre"> </span>At first, Don's career change was upsetting</span>. It was hard news to hear. GDB said he was inconsistent with dog distractions- some days he was perfect, and others he needed a strong handler to stay in line. In the end, it was Don who decided, he decided guiding was just a little too hard, and that's OK.</div><div><span class="Apple-tab-span" style="white-space: pre; "> </span></div><div><span class="Apple-tab-span" style="white-space: pre; "></span><span class="Apple-tab-span" style="white-space:pre"> </span>I didn't reach the ultimate goal. The truth hurts like crazy, that Don will never be a guide dog. But I know that the process of raising Don was success in itself. </div><div><span class="Apple-tab-span" style="white-space: pre; "> </span>I'm so proud of Don- he passed his tests, he was demo dog.. I couldn't be happier with the effort Don put into his training. These past 6 months, as Don rose higher and higher on the phase report, picturing him working in harness always brought a smile to my face. Though I never saw him training at GDB, I know who Don is, and I know how hard he always tried. What I asked from him wasn't easy, and I could tell that he was giving it all he had. I couldn't ask for any more than that. </div><div><span class="Apple-tab-span" style="white-space: pre; "> </span></div><div><span class="Apple-tab-span" style="white-space: pre; "></span><span class="Apple-tab-span" style="white-space:pre"> </span>Sometimes things don't go as expected- it is heartbreaking to let go from the dream of Don up there on the stage at GDB, harnessed next to his new blind partner, but I need to move on. I didn't have the experience of giving a guide dog to someone firsthand, but Don's impact on me and the community is just as important. Maybe this experience of letting go is just as important. When I think of Don, I think of the strapping big boy who was always up for learning something new, I think of my classmates who continue to ask about Guide Dogs and getting involved, I think of the disabled man who shook my hand, who's "thank you" was the most touching I've ever heard. Don didn't need to become a guide dog to impact everyone around him- all he needed was to be himself- whether that was a guide or pet.</div><div><span class="Apple-tab-span" style="white-space: pre; "><br /></span></div><div><span class="Apple-tab-span" style="white-space: pre; "><span class="Apple-tab-span" style="white-space:pre"> </span></span>You don't always reach your ultimate goal. Don helped me to understand that. Don was so so close, and I am SO proud of him for that. He didn't become a guide, but I've realized that raising him was a lot more than that. He taught me how to teach, how to work hard, how to face a challenge, and I'll love him forever for that. </div><div><span class="Apple-tab-span" style="white-space: pre; "> </span></div><div><span class="Apple-tab-span" style="white-space: pre; "></span><span class="Apple-tab-span" style="white-space:pre"> </span>The choice to have Guide Dogs place Don was a difficult decision. I am so grateful for GDB and their placement department, because Don ended up exactly where he belongs. Last week, I reviewed news that Don was adopted by an instructor at GDB! I was ecstatic. A person who works at Guide Dogs, has an active lifestyle, and owns another CC guide dog, I can't think of a more perfect home for this dog. Today I received news from her about the new member of their family- Don. As I read about him going to work at GDB everyday, playing with his new doggy friend, and doing his "happy dance" for breakfast, I can't imagine a better home and life for him.</div><div><br /></div><div><span class="Apple-tab-span" style="white-space:pre"> </span>The end to my journey with Don was different than expected— but it is just as perfect. I think of Don playing with another dog, being an "ambassador" for GDB as a career change dog, and loving life as a pet dog... I can't even describe how happy I am to know that Don is where he belongs. Thank you Guide Dogs, thank you to Don's new owners, and thank you to all of you for your continuos support throughout our journey. I have my fingers crossed that I will be started the journey with another new puppy sometime soon!</div></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: rgb(0, 0, 238); -webkit-text-decorations-in-effect: underline; "><img src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-Nv4TcJI86r8/TbtL0BOP-jI/AAAAAAAABXc/o8ER3gcGJHk/s400/harness2.jpg" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5601153918618827314" style="display: block; margin-top: 0px; margin-right: auto; margin-bottom: 10px; margin-left: auto; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 299px; height: 400px; " /></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="-webkit-text-decorations-in-effect: underline; ">Don as Demo Dog at a Guide Dogs Graduation :)</span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: rgb(0, 0, 238); -webkit-text-decorations-in-effect: underline; "> </span></div>Laurenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14424954284785857607noreply@blogger.com15tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5574826466119864307.post-28947294335192492632011-02-12T22:42:00.000-08:002011-02-12T22:48:22.169-08:00He's Class Ready!!I was SO SO SO happy to find out that Don passed phase 8!!! It definitely made my day! I am so excited for Don and hope to see him sometime soon at graduation :) :) <div><br /></div><div>Love you Don!! I'm so proud of you and all your hard work :D You're going to make an awesome guide.</div>Laurenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14424954284785857607noreply@blogger.com9tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5574826466119864307.post-61302353279018622042011-01-29T11:39:00.000-08:002011-01-29T12:05:34.114-08:00Don Update!<div style="text-align: left;">Don's in phase 8 this week! It's getting so exciting and I couldn't be happier :) Go, Don, go! I know he's having a great time working in the busy SF streets, navigating around cars, and doing advanced guidework. and I think he'd make an awesome guide :)</div><div><br /></div><div>I'm having a great time puppysitting Missy during the week. She is such a sweet little girl and has been doing so well. She already knows sit and just LOVES people. She follows us around the room and when I sit on the floor, she'll crawl into my lap. ahh how I love baby puppies :D I got to puppysit Silky a couple weeks ago and had a great time with her, too. And before that, I had Nougat for the holidays. I miss being a full time puppy raiser, but puppy sitting is great for now.</div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: rgb(0, 0, 238); -webkit-text-decorations-in-effect: underline; "><img src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_A6K4unH5Exo/TURuACyGW8I/AAAAAAAABVY/93r-2BdN__Y/s400/DSC02712.JPG" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5567695986362833858" style="display: block; margin-top: 0px; margin-right: auto; margin-bottom: 10px; margin-left: auto; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 300px; " /></span></div><div style="text-align: center;">Sweet little 8 week old Missy. Don't you love her calm, loving expression? She is such a smart puppy.</div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: rgb(0, 0, 238); -webkit-text-decorations-in-effect: underline; "><img src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_A6K4unH5Exo/TURu07U5SgI/AAAAAAAABVg/zXPq8Fm2POs/s400/DSC02711.jpg" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5567696894894361090" style="display: block; margin-top: 0px; margin-right: auto; margin-bottom: 10px; margin-left: auto; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 300px; height: 400px; " /></span></div><div style="text-align: center;">Missy enjoyed playing with the Jollyball (Missy in a sit, with the Jollyball rope in her mouth).</div><div style="text-align: center;">It's hard to tell in these photos, but she is sooo tiny. She's been sleeping a lot and makes all these cute little puppy grunting noises.</div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: rgb(0, 0, 238); -webkit-text-decorations-in-effect: underline; "><span class="Apple-style-span" style="-webkit-text-decorations-in-effect: underline; "><img src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_A6K4unH5Exo/TURw01S5LzI/AAAAAAAABVw/HBXOUyOv9vs/s400/DSC02608.JPG" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5567699092298608434" style="display: block; margin-top: 0px; margin-right: auto; margin-bottom: 10px; margin-left: auto; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 300px; " /></span></span></div><div style="text-align: center;">Sweet Nougat- she did a great job at my house!</div><div style="text-align: center;">Unfortunately, I don't have any Silky pictures, but she was super good and went on an all day shopping trip with me!</div><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: rgb(0, 0, 238); -webkit-text-decorations-in-effect: underline; "><img src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_A6K4unH5Exo/TURyan1k3oI/AAAAAAAABV4/ORK2jhzJrD0/s400/DSC02425.JPG" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5567700841032638082" style="display: block; margin-top: 0px; margin-right: auto; margin-bottom: 10px; margin-left: auto; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 209px; " /></span></div><div style="text-align: center;">and.. a post couldn't be complete without a picture of Don. Keep it up, big boy! I love you and I hope you know how proud I am of you :)</div>Laurenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14424954284785857607noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5574826466119864307.post-76151028075873378162011-01-19T22:28:00.001-08:002011-01-19T22:36:51.968-08:00The first of many Missy pictures<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_A6K4unH5Exo/TTfXeT-VlJI/AAAAAAAABU8/HieYWIcu_xo/s1600/DSC02677_3.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 400px; height: 207px;" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_A6K4unH5Exo/TTfXeT-VlJI/AAAAAAAABU8/HieYWIcu_xo/s400/DSC02677_3.jpg" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5564152780397319314" /></a><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_A6K4unH5Exo/TTfXY184CzI/AAAAAAAABU0/6Lyh9kboDJU/s1600/DSC02668_2_2.JPG"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 400px; height: 246px;" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_A6K4unH5Exo/TTfXY184CzI/AAAAAAAABU0/6Lyh9kboDJU/s400/DSC02668_2_2.JPG" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5564152686438779698" /></a><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color:#000000;"><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_A6K4unH5Exo/TTfXTi7X_-I/AAAAAAAABUs/uryAA1ZcAec/s1600/DSC02668_2_2.JPG"><br /></a></span><br /></div>Laurenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14424954284785857607noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5574826466119864307.post-41479353970389702072011-01-18T16:59:00.000-08:002011-01-18T17:06:40.822-08:00Samuel/Lani litter puppysittee!I am no longer puppyless— for 3 weeks! As many of you know, Lani and Samuel had a litter. A raiser in our club is the breeder keeper for Samuel and just received her new pup. However, due to the Parvo outbreak at GDB (if you haven't heard about it, please view their website) their little girl has to be quarantined for 21 days... so, when her raiser goes to work during the week, I'm the lucky one who gets puppy breath :D :D I'll be writing a huge update about this little girl later tonight, but for now...<div><br /></div><div>Welcome to <a href="http://mttamguidedogs.yolasite.com">Mt. Tam Guides</a> MISSY! </div><div><br /></div><div>(adorable pictures to come soon- this girl is so sweet and is just melting my heart... And at only 7 1/2 weeks she's doing DYB great. such a cuddle-bug I AM IN LOVE )</div>Laurenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14424954284785857607noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5574826466119864307.post-76639650613865655152011-01-06T22:13:00.000-08:002011-01-06T22:18:13.017-08:00Happiness is Phase Report Thursdays<div style="text-align: center;">Don's in phase 6 this week! :) Go Don! gooood boy</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_A6K4unH5Exo/TSavdIjEnwI/AAAAAAAABUk/2c3s4L99Fv8/s1600/DSC02459.JPG"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 400px; height: 269px;" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_A6K4unH5Exo/TSavdIjEnwI/AAAAAAAABUk/2c3s4L99Fv8/s400/DSC02459.JPG" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5559323705081110274" /></a><div style="text-align: center;">I miss this big handsome guy but I couldn't be more proud of him. Don's brothers Diablo, Delaware, and Donner are doing awesome too!</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;">More to come later about my recent puppysits. I hope everyone had a happy new year and holiday season.</div><div><br /></div><div><br /></div>Laurenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14424954284785857607noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5574826466119864307.post-73052846692965176252010-12-16T21:44:00.001-08:002010-12-16T21:48:55.793-08:00Quick Don Update :D<div style="text-align: left;"><span class="Apple-tab-span" style="white-space:pre"> </span>Again, sorry I have been such a blogging slacker! Finals have eaten up all my spare time :) No puppy yet.. .though I am doing a lot of puppysitting and other fun things with the club. Just thought I'd update you on Don's progress- he's in Phase 4 this week and I couldn't be happier!! His brothers have all just arrived, too- the D litter boys must be having a fun time at GDB!</div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: rgb(0, 0, 238); -webkit-text-decorations-in-effect: underline; "><br /></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: rgb(0, 0, 238); -webkit-text-decorations-in-effect: underline; "><img src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_A6K4unH5Exo/TQr5c7WdcSI/AAAAAAAABUU/cRLnt0F40M4/s400/DSC02421.jpg" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5551523766051107106" style="display: block; margin-top: 0px; margin-right: auto; margin-bottom: 10px; margin-left: auto; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 300px; height: 400px; " /></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color:#0000EE;"><br /></span></div>Laurenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14424954284785857607noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5574826466119864307.post-58328640966860076942010-11-11T13:49:00.000-08:002010-11-11T14:01:58.428-08:00Mt. Tam Guide Dogs Website!It's been three weeks since Don left now. I miss having a pup in the house! Recall wasn't easy, but I knew Don was ready for the next step. He was so excited when he got there, which helped. I think he's having a good time at GDB :) He's still in phase 0, as of last week. I was starting to get worried, but apparently how the timing worked out with the number of instructors, he just wasn't able to get assigned to a string. My leader said he should be assigned an instructor by this week- I guess I'll find out when we get the phase report today. <div><br /></div><div>My school has Veterans day off today, so I got to spend the whole morning finishing the website I made for the <span class="Apple-style-span" style="color:#009900;"><b>Mt. Tam Guide Dogs Puppy Raising Club</b></span>. I started in a long time ago, in summer, and I hadn't had the chance to work on it for awhile. I think it turned out pretty well. The address is <a href="http://mttamguidedogs.yolasite.com/">http://mttamguidedogs.yolastie.com</a>/ I'd love it if you would check it out and tell me what you think!</div><div><br /></div><div>Sorry I haven't been getting around to any blogs lately! I'm looking forward to getting back to blogging. I'm going to be doing some puppysitting until I can get back to raising. Hope everyone is doing well!</div><div><br /></div><div><br /></div>Laurenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14424954284785857607noreply@blogger.com10tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5574826466119864307.post-15432219370841867692010-10-12T16:33:00.001-07:002010-10-12T16:52:11.186-07:00Less than a week...<div style="text-align: left;">...until my big boy goes back for formal training. On Sunday we'll be driving Don to Guide Dogs and I will say my final goodbyes. I felt like these 1 1/4 years with Don went by so fast. I remember picking up Don and thinking how it would be a long, long, time away when he went back. Now, we're only 5 days from recall day. I know I'm going to miss his a ton- the way his ears go back and he gets all wiggly when I come home from high school, his adventurous spirit, his beautiful brown eyes and big black nose, his big puppy kisses, I could go on and on. Most importantly, I love how Don tries his very hardest and gaives being a puppy in training his all, even when it's hard. Maybe he doesn't ignore the dogs every single time, maybe he steals an object every now and then, but he has come SO far and every time I work with him, I can see his will and effort to do the best his big, confident self can.</div><div><br /></div><div>Don, I hope you have a great time in formal training. I love you and my greatest hope is whether you are happy wherever you end up, and I know Guide Dogs will make sure of that. Don, thank you for the best year ever!</div><div><br /></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: rgb(0, 0, 238); -webkit-text-decorations-in-effect: underline; "><img src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_A6K4unH5Exo/TLTyOI_vavI/AAAAAAAABSQ/X_x-gZkWFiM/s400/47a0ce27b3127cce9854918318ea00000035108Act3Lhw1ZNB.jpeg" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5527308967437363954" style="display: block; margin-top: 0px; margin-right: auto; margin-bottom: 10px; margin-left: auto; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 266px; " /></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color:#0000EE;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: rgb(0, 0, 0); "><div style="text-align: center;">Above: Don at my volleyball game last week. He's a big fan :D</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;">I hope to post everyday until Don's recall. A couple of questions- any tips for recall day? and for those of you who have raised GDB puppies, how do you do the "Fun Things About My Puppy" sheet? Can you attach other pages?</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;">I have so much to write about; more will come later. I think Don is ready for formal training and really hope he makes it as a guide.</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;">Go DON!</div></span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color:#0000EE;"><br /></span></div>Laurenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14424954284785857607noreply@blogger.com11tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5574826466119864307.post-69303899388301989442010-09-14T23:35:00.000-07:002010-09-14T23:41:16.097-07:00I'm Still Alive :)<div style="text-align: left;">No worries- I'm still blogging, I just haven't had much time lately with fall sports. I'm really sorry I haven't gotten around to commenting on any blogs- hopefully sometime soon. I really miss it! This weekend I am hoping to have a good chunk of time to write about all our MANY adventures this month- from Don going to a horse farm with the puppy club, helping out at a fundraiser, going to Tahoe (with Don!), and so much more! As for Don's recall date, my leader is guessing early October, so we still have some time together to work on a couple things and get those guide dog skills polished! Don's maturing into a nice boy, and he had an awesome time at Lake Tahoe.</div><div>more to come...<br /><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: rgb(0, 0, 238); -webkit-text-decorations-in-effect: underline; "><img src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_A6K4unH5Exo/TJBqDFYNxnI/AAAAAAAABR0/imJ4xUVcW7o/s400/DSC02320.JPG" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5517026144744752754" style="display: block; margin-top: 0px; margin-right: auto; margin-bottom: 10px; margin-left: auto; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 300px; " /></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: rgb(0, 0, 238); -webkit-text-decorations-in-effect: underline; "><br /></span></div></div>Laurenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14424954284785857607noreply@blogger.com6tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5574826466119864307.post-66105050301116148642010-08-15T20:31:00.001-07:002010-08-15T21:03:04.492-07:00Puppy meeting! (and new puppy Danelle)<div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="-webkit-text-decorations-in-effect: underline; "><img src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_A6K4unH5Exo/TGcGZ3i6DuI/AAAAAAAABRA/HfWdq9crFo4/s400/DSC02199.JPG" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5505376110960578274" style="display: block; margin-top: 0px; margin-right: auto; margin-bottom: 10px; margin-left: auto; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 300px; " /></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="-webkit-text-decorations-in-effect: underline; ">Saturday was puppy class, so we headed off to Guide Dogs. We got there a little early so Don could play with <a href="http://puppyraisinginpointrichmond.blogspot.com/">Silky</a> (she has a blog now). Nougat and Quebec were there too! Don didn't get much playtime in, but he had a fun time running with Silky and playing tug with Nougat. Isn't Nougat an awesome name? And she's the color of nougat! (above, Don sits next to the grape vine on our porch)</span></div><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_A6K4unH5Exo/TGcubaa4edI/AAAAAAAABRQ/3nWhKPexfO8/s1600/DSC02203.JPG"><img src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_A6K4unH5Exo/TGcubaa4edI/AAAAAAAABRQ/3nWhKPexfO8/s400/DSC02203.JPG" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5505420117967141330" style="display: block; margin-top: 0px; margin-right: auto; margin-bottom: 10px; margin-left: auto; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 300px; " /></a><div style="text-align: center;">Silky taking a break in the shade.</div><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_A6K4unH5Exo/TGcMX9qh1MI/AAAAAAAABRI/cFZmN7fEVaQ/s1600/DSC02204.JPG"><img src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_A6K4unH5Exo/TGcMX9qh1MI/AAAAAAAABRI/cFZmN7fEVaQ/s400/DSC02204.JPG" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5505382675313185986" style="display: block; margin-top: 0px; margin-right: auto; margin-bottom: 10px; margin-left: auto; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 300px; " /></a><div style="text-align: center;">Don get's all his puppy energy out in a battle of tug with Silky.</div><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_A6K4unH5Exo/TGcFzfgnWJI/AAAAAAAABQ4/V8Wjir0veU0/s1600/DSC02205.JPG"><img src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_A6K4unH5Exo/TGcFzfgnWJI/AAAAAAAABQ4/V8Wjir0veU0/s400/DSC02205.JPG" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5505375451673483410" style="display: block; margin-top: 0px; margin-right: auto; margin-bottom: 10px; margin-left: auto; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 300px; " /></a></div><div><div style="text-align: center;"><u>Nougat galloping across the play yard, ears flapping and tongue hanging out. Isn't she cute?</u></div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color:#000000;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_A6K4unH5Exo/TGcFzfgnWJI/AAAAAAAABQ4/V8Wjir0veU0/s1600/DSC02205.JPG"></a></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="-webkit-text-decorations-in-effect: underline; "><img src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_A6K4unH5Exo/TGcFlIGcveI/AAAAAAAABQw/UyEb6py3US4/s400/DSC02209.JPG" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5505375204871552482" style="display: block; margin-top: 0px; margin-right: auto; margin-bottom: 10px; margin-left: auto; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 300px; " /></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color:#000000;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_A6K4unH5Exo/TGcFlIGcveI/AAAAAAAABQw/UyEb6py3US4/s1600/DSC02209.JPG"></a><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_A6K4unH5Exo/TGcFlIGcveI/AAAAAAAABQw/UyEb6py3US4/s1600/DSC02209.JPG"></a><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_A6K4unH5Exo/TGcFlIGcveI/AAAAAAAABQw/UyEb6py3US4/s1600/DSC02209.JPG"></a></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="-webkit-text-decorations-in-effect: underline; ">Nougat :) The only one who would smile for the camera. GOOD GIRL!</span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="-webkit-text-decorations-in-effect: underline; ">The puppy class was excellent- the theme was "a walk in the park". We practiced taking left and right turns with our dogs, without any verbal cue, to teach them to be more attentive.</span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="-webkit-text-decorations-in-effect: underline; "><br /></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="-webkit-text-decorations-in-effect: underline; ">I was so proud of Don! He did really well- there is hope yet for his dog distractions!! Actually, he really wasn't dog distracted. He's always been great at turning and stopping- but I was a bit nervous about how he'd do with tons of other dogs around him. ... and, we had to do the exercise with the leash on the flat collar. I had visions of Don pulling in the direction of other dogs; of me correcting like crazy! but, have no fear... </span>Don was great :) He turned when I turned, ignored the other dogs, and stopped the second I stopped. He did well when another raiser handled him, too.</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;">While Don was walking with another raiser, I got to work with Danelle (sp?) (<a href="http://dagan'sdogma.blogspot.com">Dagan</a>'s sister!) who was just transferred to our club. She was really sweet, and did great as well! She ignored the other dogs and had some pretty awesome turns!</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;">Overall, puppy class was great! Don's 15 months now!- which means he's going back soon- possibly even September :( I'm starting school next week, so I'm not sure if Don will be going for a while. The other day, I had a school orientation, and my mom had forgotten that she had jury duty. So, Don went to jury duty with my mom! She said he settled well :)</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;">I can't wait for the next puppy class- it's going to be at a horse farm!</div><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="-webkit-text-decorations-in-effect: underline; "><br /></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color:#0000EE;"><br /></span></div>Laurenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14424954284785857607noreply@blogger.com7tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5574826466119864307.post-31344480758518496362010-08-14T09:52:00.000-07:002010-08-14T09:53:37.977-07:00Check out this new GDB blog!<div style="text-align: center; ">i guys, just wanted to share with you a <span class="Apple-style-span" style="color:#33CCFF;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-large;">new GDB puppy raiser blog</span></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:large;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color:#33CCFF;">.</span></span> Silky's raiser, who is in my puppy club, has <span class="Apple-style-span" style="color:#33CC00;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">started blogging</span></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color:#33FF33;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">!</span></span> <span class="Apple-style-span" style="color:#CC33CC;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:large;">Her blog is "<a href="http://puppyraisinginpointrichmond.blogspot.com/"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">Puppy Raising in Point Richmond</span></a>"</span></span>. She also raised Maren, a female black lab who was career changed. So, <a href="http://puppyraisinginpointrichmond.blogspot.com/">go check it out </a>and welcome them to the puppy-raising blogging world :) Their blog is awesome and photo-filled. Do you remember Silky? I puppysat her awhile ago and she is also Don's favorite puppy pal! She goes on many adventures, you can read about her latest outing to Cal.</div><div></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: rgb(0, 0, 238); -webkit-text-decorations-in-effect: underline; "><img src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_A6K4unH5Exo/TFNgKVLB5fI/AAAAAAAABN0/oOViqdl1-e0/s400/DSC00584.JPG" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5499845300547872242" style="display: block; margin-top: 0px; margin-right: auto; margin-bottom: 10px; margin-left: auto; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 300px; " /></span></div><div style="text-align: center; "><span class="Apple-style-span" style="-webkit-text-decorations-in-effect: underline; ">(Silky when I puppysat her)</span></div>Laurenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14424954284785857607noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5574826466119864307.post-47732290860705485422010-08-08T20:51:00.000-07:002010-08-08T22:44:15.045-07:00I am no longer puppyless; all is well!<div><div style="text-align: left; ">After a fun week in San Diego, I am back and have my puppy again! With the Give a Day, Get a Disney Day program, my family and I got free tickets to Disneyland for volunteering with Guide Dogs :) It was a fun vacation, though it felt really weird going places without a dog. The other day I wore my "Ask Me About My Puppy" shirt from Fun Day, and then I realized I had no puppy with me! One guy said, "so, what about your puppy??" oops.</div><div style="text-align: left; "><br /></div><div style="text-align: left; ">Don was at the GD kennels for the later half of the week, so we went to the puppysitters house first to pick up his stuff, then headed to GDB. Don did really well at the puppysitters. Of course, he had his Don moments (eating tanbark in the yard) but I was glad to hear that he played well with their career change dog Bente, and they said he was super on outings! And they said he was very quiet, good on tie-down and crate. He really loves dogs, they said he had a blast playing with Bente and that they got along well.</div><div style="text-align: left; "><br /></div><div style="text-align: left; ">A question for you- how do you stop your dog from picking up tanbark, grass, etc. in the yard? I usually don't let him in the yard, only on-leash when practicing his "come". But, they said he was picking up stuff in their yard, so now I am wondering if I should let him out in the yard more often and work on not picking stuff up. Any suggestions?</div><div style="text-align: left; "><br /></div><div style="text-align: left; ">Without a puppy, I had lots of time to work on my club's website. Below is the logo I've been working on. I think it's finished now!</div></div><div style="text-align: left; "><br /></div><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_A6K4unH5Exo/TF-Vg4_IewI/AAAAAAAABQo/RLQqYa_rFb8/s1600/Screen+shot+2010-08-07+at+7.58.32+PM.png"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 400px; height: 104px;" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_A6K4unH5Exo/TF-Vg4_IewI/AAAAAAAABQo/RLQqYa_rFb8/s400/Screen+shot+2010-08-07+at+7.58.32+PM.png" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5503281661955570434" /></a><br /><div style="text-align: left;">Don was really happy to see me :) He had his "happy ears" on. Unfortunately, Don is having some diarrhea trouble since I picked him up. I am hoping it'll be better tomorrow, if not I think I'll put him on the bland diet.</div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: rgb(0, 0, 238); -webkit-text-decorations-in-effect: underline; "><img src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_A6K4unH5Exo/TF-UmJcw3iI/AAAAAAAABQg/VkoLdd76IGc/s400/DSC02101.JPG" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5503280652762537506" style="display: block; margin-top: 0px; margin-right: auto; margin-bottom: 10px; margin-left: auto; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 300px; " /></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="-webkit-text-decorations-in-effect: underline; ">I'm glad to have my puppy back! Don got a bath, so now he smells like Mango Tango shampoo. He's had a fun time with his new Kong, and is exhausted now. With only one more week of summer left, I'm hoping that Don and I will go on lots of great outings!</span></div><div><br /></div><div><br /></div><div><br /></div>Laurenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14424954284785857607noreply@blogger.com10tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5574826466119864307.post-64696254556352925682010-08-04T11:36:00.001-07:002010-08-04T11:57:31.055-07:00Super fun, photo filled, FUN DAY 2010 post!!<div style="text-align: left;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color:#000000;">Don and I had an awesome Fun Day!! What can I say, but </span><b>it was FUN!! </b>really, really, really fun :) This was my second fun day, but first fun day with a puppy! Last year, I was out of town, which was pretty sad considering I live so close to GDB! To kick off the Fun Day celebrations, I attended the Follow the Trainer. It was really cool being able to see how they train the dogs in formal training. I never knew how the guide dogs are expected to walk from curb to curb and it was really neat seeing them teach "Left" "Right" and "Hop up". First I saw Apple, who did really well. The trainer was really impressed with her performance (it was her first lesson!), and she seemed so happy and eager to please. I never knew how fast the guide dogs go! Don is going to like that :) I also saw Dex, who was a huge, handsome black lab, and Salsa (isn't that a great name?).</div><div><div><br /></div><div>It was a pretty hectic afternoon for me after the Follow the Trainer because I needed to pack for my vacation to San Diego (we were leaving right after Fun Day). Miraculously, I managed to get everything done and I got to Fun Day before the opening ceremonies! There were so many presentations, I didn't know what to see first! I watched the opening ceremony (the speeches were great!) then the fun began! I saw photos of Don's parents (Bosworth and Gail). Then I got my green leash from Megan (thank you!), which I love. It gave me something to do in the car ride to San Diego- I broke it in quite a bit!</div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="-webkit-text-decorations-in-effect: underline; "><img src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_A6K4unH5Exo/TFeBYSlCqLI/AAAAAAAABN8/ScwxEVGdaeY/s400/DSC02126.jpg" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5501007724160395442" style="display: block; margin-top: 0px; margin-right: auto; margin-bottom: 10px; margin-left: auto; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 300px; height: 400px; " /></span></div><div style="text-align: center; ">Above, Don in the car on our way to Fun Day. He was soo tired, but he knew something was up. When we got there, he was so eager to jump out of the car!</div><div style="text-align: center; "><br /></div><div style="text-align: center; "><span class="Apple-style-span" style="-webkit-text-decorations-in-effect: underline; "><img src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_A6K4unH5Exo/TFm3BVOiJcI/AAAAAAAABP8/oKHe1GaZwdE/s400/DSC02173.JPG" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5501629653315626434" style="display: block; margin-top: 0px; margin-right: auto; margin-bottom: 10px; margin-left: auto; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 300px; " /></span></div><div style="text-align: center;">Above, Don's father, Bosworth. He definitely got his father's coat!</div><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="-webkit-text-decorations-in-effect: underline; "><img src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_A6K4unH5Exo/TFm3B3pzoPI/AAAAAAAABQE/uKpHbvVKgx4/s400/DSC02174.JPG" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5501629662556823794" style="display: block; margin-top: 0px; margin-right: auto; margin-bottom: 10px; margin-left: auto; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 300px; " /></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="-webkit-text-decorations-in-effect: underline; ">Above, Don's mom, Gail. Don looks just like her!</span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="-webkit-text-decorations-in-effect: underline; "><br /></span></div><div style="text-align: center; ">I really wanted to see what the vendor booths had, so I headed there. It was SO cool. I was in heaven with all the GDB shirts and puppy raising things! I got a Born to Lead shirt from Mimi and Cabana and Cassie and Dagan, which I LOVE. The graphic is so cool! I also got an "Ask Me About My Puppy Shirt" with all the answers to common questions on the back, which I thought was pretty funny. I got to meet Dagan, which was awesome!</div><div style="text-align: center; "><span class="Apple-style-span" style="-webkit-text-decorations-in-effect: underline; "><img src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_A6K4unH5Exo/TFeQHuOZP6I/AAAAAAAABOE/Nqt35Xw96ZY/s400/DSC02129.JPG" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5501023932198240162" style="display: block; margin-top: 0px; margin-right: auto; margin-bottom: 10px; margin-left: auto; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 300px; " /></span></div><div style="text-align: center; "><i>Hi, I'm Don. You must be Dagan!</i></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="-webkit-text-decorations-in-effect: underline; "><span class="Apple-style-span" style="-webkit-text-decorations-in-effect: underline; "><img src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_A6K4unH5Exo/TFeQIIHJ_sI/AAAAAAAABOM/P64DCm3lSAU/s400/DSC02132_3.JPG" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5501023939147202242" style="display: block; margin-top: 0px; margin-right: auto; margin-bottom: 10px; margin-left: auto; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 318px; " /></span></span></div><div style="text-align: center; ">Don sitting next to Dagan. Isn't Dagan handsome? I loved getting to say hi to him. Thanks to Mimi for taking this photo!</div><div style="text-align: center; "><br /></div><div>I also got to meet a lot of other people from the blogging world. Standing in line for lunch, I ran into Sarah with Rafferty, Mandy with Cancun, and Megan with Kyle!! I also met Kaytlynn with Ryder (he is SO handsome and sweet). Later, I met Halette and Tenaya! And of course, Don wanted to say hi to Silky from my club.</div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="-webkit-text-decorations-in-effect: underline; "><img src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_A6K4unH5Exo/TFeSBU7YcMI/AAAAAAAABOU/6RKOiwor0PA/s400/DSC02165.JPG" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5501026021351649474" style="display: block; margin-top: 0px; margin-right: auto; margin-bottom: 10px; margin-left: auto; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 300px; " /></span></div><div style="text-align: center; ">Don with Rafferty, Cancun, and Kyle as we waited in line for the BBQ lunch. </div><div style="text-align: center; "><br /></div><div style="text-align: center; ">I think the highlight of the day for me (and Don) was getting to meet his littermates. I was having a bit of trouble finding Don's litter, but then two GIANT black lab look-alikes walked towards us, and I knew they had to be Don's brothers. Sure enough, they were. Delaware and Diablo look so similar. And they all have the big heads (apparently Bosworth is known for his head :) ). Don was actually the smallest one there (Diablo was 85 pounds!!) but Don had the biggest head.</div><div style="text-align: center; "><span class="Apple-style-span" style="-webkit-text-decorations-in-effect: underline; "><img src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_A6K4unH5Exo/TFe3hMTGQJI/AAAAAAAABOc/ZVBC9VNGPiI/s400/DSC02135.JPG" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5501067250721243282" style="display: block; margin-top: 0px; margin-right: auto; margin-bottom: 10px; margin-left: auto; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 300px; " /></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="-webkit-text-decorations-in-effect: underline; ">It was so cute- Don, Delaware, and Diablo got so excited. I think they remembered each other. Above, Don and Delaware are both doing their "happy ears". It must be a family trait!</span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="-webkit-text-decorations-in-effect: underline; "><span class="Apple-style-span" style="-webkit-text-decorations-in-effect: underline; "><img src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_A6K4unH5Exo/TFe3hiZDDjI/AAAAAAAABOk/FkHc2addyMc/s400/DSC02141.JPG" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5501067256651779634" style="display: block; margin-top: 0px; margin-right: auto; margin-bottom: 10px; margin-left: auto; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 300px; " /></span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="-webkit-text-decorations-in-effect: underline; "><span class="Apple-style-span" style="-webkit-text-decorations-in-effect: underline; "><i>Don: I've missed you sooo much! </i>Above, Don displays some brotherly love and happiness :)</span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="-webkit-text-decorations-in-effect: underline; "><span class="Apple-style-span" style="-webkit-text-decorations-in-effect: underline; "><span class="Apple-style-span" style="-webkit-text-decorations-in-effect: underline; "><img src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_A6K4unH5Exo/TFe3iLonTGI/AAAAAAAABOs/PSsfTtYJU_Q/s400/DSC02142.JPG" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5501067267722923106" style="display: block; margin-top: 0px; margin-right: auto; margin-bottom: 10px; margin-left: auto; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 300px; " /></span></span></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="-webkit-text-decorations-in-effect: underline; "><span class="Apple-style-span" style="-webkit-text-decorations-in-effect: underline; "><span class="Apple-style-span" style="-webkit-text-decorations-in-effect: underline; ">It was really nice meeting some of Don's littermates. Dinah's raisers were there too, but they just happened to be on vacation and didn't have Dinah with them. Dinah sounds really sweet.</span></span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="-webkit-text-decorations-in-effect: underline; "><span class="Apple-style-span" style="-webkit-text-decorations-in-effect: underline; "><span class="Apple-style-span" style="-webkit-text-decorations-in-effect: underline; "><span class="Apple-style-span" style="-webkit-text-decorations-in-effect: underline; "><img src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_A6K4unH5Exo/TFe6Dln5NVI/AAAAAAAABO0/2L3fNk7ptIk/s400/DSC02143.JPG" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5501070040658163026" style="display: block; margin-top: 0px; margin-right: auto; margin-bottom: 10px; margin-left: auto; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 300px; " /></span></span></span></span></div><div style="text-align: center;">I talked with the other raisers, who were all really nice. Delaware and Diablo are both really calm dogs, and all the dogs like to lay on their back in really funny positions! It also appeared that dog distractions are a family trait :) They sound like really great dogs.</div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="-webkit-text-decorations-in-effect: underline; "><span class="Apple-style-span" style="-webkit-text-decorations-in-effect: underline; "><span class="Apple-style-span" style="-webkit-text-decorations-in-effect: underline; "><span class="Apple-style-span" style="-webkit-text-decorations-in-effect: underline; "><span class="Apple-style-span" style="-webkit-text-decorations-in-effect: underline; "><img src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_A6K4unH5Exo/TFe6EvO9JKI/AAAAAAAABPE/_JE3uqoeGko/s400/DSC02151.JPG" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5501070060417787042" style="display: block; margin-top: 0px; margin-right: auto; margin-bottom: 10px; margin-left: auto; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 300px; " /></span></span></span></span></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="-webkit-text-decorations-in-effect: underline; "><span class="Apple-style-span" style="-webkit-text-decorations-in-effect: underline; "><span class="Apple-style-span" style="-webkit-text-decorations-in-effect: underline; "><span class="Apple-style-span" style="-webkit-text-decorations-in-effect: underline; "><span class="Apple-style-span" style="-webkit-text-decorations-in-effect: underline; ">Diablo</span></span></span></span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="-webkit-text-decorations-in-effect: underline; "><span class="Apple-style-span" style="-webkit-text-decorations-in-effect: underline; "><span class="Apple-style-span" style="-webkit-text-decorations-in-effect: underline; "><span class="Apple-style-span" style="-webkit-text-decorations-in-effect: underline; "><span class="Apple-style-span" style="-webkit-text-decorations-in-effect: underline; "><span class="Apple-style-span" style="-webkit-text-decorations-in-effect: underline; "><img src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_A6K4unH5Exo/TFe6EPsBVnI/AAAAAAAABO8/mWiAqMX-NUY/s400/DSC02146.jpg" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5501070051949762162" style="display: block; margin-top: 0px; margin-right: auto; margin-bottom: 10px; margin-left: auto; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 300px; height: 400px; " /></span></span></span></span></span></span></div><div style="text-align: center;">Delaware- doesn't he look just like Don (well, minus the black coat...)</div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="-webkit-text-decorations-in-effect: underline; "><span class="Apple-style-span" style="-webkit-text-decorations-in-effect: underline; "><span class="Apple-style-span" style="-webkit-text-decorations-in-effect: underline; "><span class="Apple-style-span" style="-webkit-text-decorations-in-effect: underline; "><span class="Apple-style-span" style="-webkit-text-decorations-in-effect: underline; "><span class="Apple-style-span" style="-webkit-text-decorations-in-effect: underline; "><span class="Apple-style-span" style="-webkit-text-decorations-in-effect: underline; "><img src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_A6K4unH5Exo/TFe6FFwQU9I/AAAAAAAABPM/Hxiua9Etbfw/s400/DSC02160.JPG" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5501070066463036370" style="display: block; margin-top: 0px; margin-right: auto; margin-bottom: 10px; margin-left: auto; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 300px; " /></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></div></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="-webkit-text-decorations-in-effect: underline; "><span class="Apple-style-span" style="-webkit-text-decorations-in-effect: underline; "><span class="Apple-style-span" style="-webkit-text-decorations-in-effect: underline; "><span class="Apple-style-span" style="-webkit-text-decorations-in-effect: underline; "><span class="Apple-style-span" style="-webkit-text-decorations-in-effect: underline; "><span class="Apple-style-span" style="-webkit-text-decorations-in-effect: underline; "><span class="Apple-style-span" style="-webkit-text-decorations-in-effect: underline; ">It was sad to leave, but we plan on staying in touch. Don gave everyone a goodbye kiss. Good luck to the Bosworth/Gail "D" litter as they enter formal training within the next few months!</span></span></span></span></span></span></span></div><div><br /></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="-webkit-text-decorations-in-effect: underline; "><img src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_A6K4unH5Exo/TFm3AnKptoI/AAAAAAAABP0/4dLKiN2qPDI/s400/DSC02171.JPG" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5501629640951314050" style="display: block; margin-top: 0px; margin-right: auto; margin-bottom: 10px; margin-left: auto; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 300px; " /></span></div><div>The fun day activities were great. I really liked the Juno walk. I'd always wondered what it felt like to hold a harness. And of course, I had to look at all the adorable puppies in the kennels.</div><div><br /></div><div>Can't wait for next years fun day! I wonder what the theme will be?</div>Laurenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14424954284785857607noreply@blogger.com9tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5574826466119864307.post-92006073577165916102010-07-30T16:22:00.000-07:002010-08-14T09:51:35.925-07:00Check out this new GDB blog!<div style="text-align: center;">Hi guys, just wanted to share with you a <span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-large;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color:#33CCFF;">new GDB puppy raiser blog</span></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color:#33CCFF;">.</span></span> Silky's raiser, who is in my puppy club, has <span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color:#33CC00;">started blogging</span></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color:#33FF33;">!</span> <span class="Apple-style-span" style="color:#CC33CC;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:large;">Her blog is "<a href="http://puppyraisinginpointrichmond.blogspot.com/">Puppy Raising in Point Richmond</a>"</span></span>. She also raised Maren, a female black lab who was career changed. So, <a href="http://puppyraisinginpointrichmond.blogspot.com/">go check it out </a>and welcome them to the puppy-raising blogging world :) Their blog is awesome and photo-filled. Do you remember Silky? I puppysat her awhile ago and she is also Don's favorite puppy pal! She goes on many adventures, you can read about her latest outing to Cal.</div><div> </div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: rgb(0, 0, 238); -webkit-text-decorations-in-effect: underline; "><img src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_A6K4unH5Exo/TFNgKVLB5fI/AAAAAAAABN0/oOViqdl1-e0/s400/DSC00584.JPG" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5499845300547872242" style="display: block; margin-top: 0px; margin-right: auto; margin-bottom: 10px; margin-left: auto; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 300px; " /></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="-webkit-text-decorations-in-effect: underline; ">(Silky when I puppysat her)</span></div>Laurenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14424954284785857607noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5574826466119864307.post-31423624118078327342010-07-29T19:31:00.000-07:002010-07-29T21:55:40.295-07:00My Best Friend (by Don)<div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_A6K4unH5Exo/TFJa05V3w6I/AAAAAAAABNs/GrOvDp3PT60/s1600/DSC02108.jpg"></a><div style="text-align: center;">Everyone needs a best friend....</div><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color:#0000EE;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color:#000000;"><br /></span></span></div><div style="text-align: center;">Someone to sniff grass with</div><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: rgb(0, 0, 238); "><img src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_A6K4unH5Exo/TFJWRI-bNsI/AAAAAAAABMs/H4TieXUaVao/s400/DSC02115.JPG" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5499552947439875778" style="display: block; margin-top: 0px; margin-right: auto; margin-bottom: 10px; margin-left: auto; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 300px; " /></span></div><div style="text-align: center;">and run and run and run</div><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: rgb(0, 0, 238); "><br /></span></div><div style="text-align: center;">Someone who delights in chewing your jowls and doesn't mind when you pounce on them</div><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: rgb(0, 0, 238); "><img src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_A6K4unH5Exo/TFJXgFODruI/AAAAAAAABNM/8i170U7F0S0/s400/DSC02114.JPG" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5499554303641366242" style="display: block; margin-top: 0px; margin-right: auto; margin-bottom: 10px; margin-left: auto; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 300px; " /></span></div><div style="text-align: center;">and will roll in the dirt with you</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;">and cool off with you</div><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: rgb(0, 0, 238); "><img src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_A6K4unH5Exo/TFJXgd5ADvI/AAAAAAAABNU/JkMjvjEY9D4/s400/DSC02112.JPG" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5499554310263934706" style="display: block; margin-top: 0px; margin-right: auto; margin-bottom: 10px; margin-left: auto; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 300px; " /></span></div><div style="text-align: center;">if you are lucky, they might rub your belly when you roll over</div><div style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_A6K4unH5Exo/TFJWSMcMFUI/AAAAAAAABM8/Hgor9AvVwuc/s1600/DSC02119.JPG"><img src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_A6K4unH5Exo/TFJWSMcMFUI/AAAAAAAABM8/Hgor9AvVwuc/s400/DSC02119.JPG" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5499552965549888834" style="display: block; margin-top: 0px; margin-right: auto; margin-bottom: 10px; margin-left: auto; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 300px; " /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;">Someone who you can sneak attack and roll over on the ground,</div><div style="text-align: center;">and she will still be your friend</div><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: rgb(0, 0, 238); -webkit-text-decorations-in-effect: underline; "><img src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_A6K4unH5Exo/TFJY_rSFfbI/AAAAAAAABNc/0ARGUyOr_Gg/s400/DSC02110.JPG" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5499555945946381746" style="display: block; margin-top: 0px; margin-right: auto; margin-bottom: 10px; margin-left: auto; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 300px; " /></span></div><div style="text-align: center;">Someone who you can steal toys from!!</div><div style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_A6K4unH5Exo/TFJWRiop7-I/AAAAAAAABM0/p2_Y24sq9jE/s1600/DSC02118.JPG"><img src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_A6K4unH5Exo/TFJWRiop7-I/AAAAAAAABM0/p2_Y24sq9jE/s400/DSC02118.JPG" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5499552954327887842" style="display: block; margin-top: 0px; margin-right: auto; margin-bottom: 10px; margin-left: auto; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 300px; " /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;">Someone who you can play chase with and will never, ever tire!</div><div style="text-align: center;">Thanks for being my best friend, Silky!! That was a fun playdate :)</div><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: rgb(0, 0, 238); -webkit-text-decorations-in-effect: underline; "><img src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_A6K4unH5Exo/TFJZkuYyk-I/AAAAAAAABNk/nXFPFNdwCd4/s400/DSC02123.JPG" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5499556582434968546" style="display: block; margin-top: 0px; margin-right: auto; margin-bottom: 10px; margin-left: auto; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 300px; " /></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="-webkit-text-decorations-in-effect: underline; "><i>pant, pant, pant...</i> I guess I am sorta tired :)</span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="-webkit-text-decorations-in-effect: underline; "><br /></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="-webkit-text-decorations-in-effect: underline; ">Lauren: Don and I are busy getting ready for Fun Day! Only 1 more day- we can't wait! Tomorrow I get to do the follow the trainer, so that should be fun!</span></div><div style="text-align: center;">Almost forgot- I took this cute picture of Don in his cowboy gear.</div><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: rgb(0, 0, 238); -webkit-text-decorations-in-effect: underline; "><img src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_A6K4unH5Exo/TFJa05V3w6I/AAAAAAAABNs/GrOvDp3PT60/s400/DSC02108.jpg" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5499557959765050274" style="display: block; margin-top: 0px; margin-right: auto; margin-bottom: 10px; margin-left: auto; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 300px; height: 400px; " /></span></div><div style="text-align: center;">He didn't like the hat though, so I won't make him wear it to fun day. It sure looked good on him, though! :)</div>Laurenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14424954284785857607noreply@blogger.com7tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5574826466119864307.post-33229325044589607802010-07-28T14:14:00.000-07:002010-07-28T14:45:47.994-07:00Training at the Airport!<div>My brother was leaving for a trip yesterday, so I took Don so he could experience the sights and sounds of the airport. He did really well, walking through the airport and waiting in line while my brother checked in his luggage. I didn't think I'd get to go past security, but the lady gave my mom and I escort passes, so we could go with my brother. I was so happy that Don would get to experience security check! (Below, Don sits calmly as lots of people and suitcases go by)</div><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_A6K4unH5Exo/TFCemUawROI/AAAAAAAABMQ/y0h0nmQmXog/s1600/DSC02102.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 300px; height: 400px;" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_A6K4unH5Exo/TFCemUawROI/AAAAAAAABMQ/y0h0nmQmXog/s400/DSC02102.jpg" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5499069526172517602" /></a>In my excitement that Don would get to go through the beeping metal detector, I forget to take out my cell phone and bait bag. oops. The metal detector didn't phase Don- he walked right through- and then we waited in this little room for them to scan both of us (Don's collar had set off of the metal detector). Don waited patiently in a down while they checked me. I was actually glad I had left everything in my pockets because Don got to hear the beeping a lot which was good for him to experience.<br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_A6K4unH5Exo/TFCelkbI5dI/AAAAAAAABMI/su3nu2_XP5g/s1600/DSC02105_2.JPG"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 294px; height: 400px;" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_A6K4unH5Exo/TFCelkbI5dI/AAAAAAAABMI/su3nu2_XP5g/s400/DSC02105_2.JPG" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5499069513289229778" /></a>Above, Don waits calmly next to a security officer. They checked Don next. Much to my dissapointment, they didn't scan him, but they padded him down. Don was great- he wagged his tail but stayed in the "stand" position, and was very happy about the attention he was getting.<br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_A6K4unH5Exo/TFCelO5Ub5I/AAAAAAAABMA/R7fnrf4IJf8/s1600/DSC02106_2.JPG"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 400px; height: 225px;" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_A6K4unH5Exo/TFCelO5Ub5I/AAAAAAAABMA/R7fnrf4IJf8/s400/DSC02106_2.JPG" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5499069507510235026" /></a><div style="text-align: center;">Above, Don does a nice down stay inside the airport. I walked him through the terminal and he got to see a man pushing a ton of luggage carts, a couple rolling trashcans, and lots of people! He was a good boy :)</div><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_A6K4unH5Exo/TFCekdm4aRI/AAAAAAAABL4/JoxMgNUjNQo/s1600/DSC02107.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 300px; height: 400px;" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_A6K4unH5Exo/TFCekdm4aRI/AAAAAAAABL4/JoxMgNUjNQo/s400/DSC02107.jpg" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5499069494279563538" /></a><div style="text-align: center;">To end Don's visit to the airport, we stopped at the baggage claim so Don could watch some luggage go round and round. It was a great outing- and really tired him out :)</div>Laurenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14424954284785857607noreply@blogger.com6