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| Bella - Therapy Dog |
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| Bethany Willow |
Hi Sue,
I'm sorry I haven't written or sent photos yet. I know you can hardly wait to see Bethany and Bella. I'm planning on getting the photos this weekend, my computer won't let me upload, I have to take them to the drugstore's photo center.
But, let me tell you about my girls. They have worked everything out! Praise be!! You should see them play both inside and outside. WOW, they get more exercise than I could ever give them from just a walk. If we could bottle that we'd never run out of energy. Emma and little Charlie love playing with them too.
Bethany is still learning when big sister Bella gives her a low guttural growl she means that's enough! Bella will put Bethany in her place and sometimes it takes a little more attitude to get the message across. If it gets a little more vocal than necessary I remind Bella to back off. Bethany will "scream" and flips over on her back but there isn't any injuries it's her response to being put in her place. I always keep an eye on both of them. Pastor Syd and Sharon gave excellent advice on just letting them work things out. Naturally, I was terrified and afraid Bella would hurt Bethany. But, Bella has only given her two nips which were very gentle, the rest is just a great deal of vocalization and dominate stance over Bethany (I always watch them like a hawk).
Bethany is what I call a morning puppy! She's up and ready for the world as soon as the dawn breaks. However, Bella is more of an afternoon gal. Bethany will race in and do everything she can to get Bella up to play. This usually works but Bella doesn't like to go full force that early! She'll remind Bethany sternly, but once she's gone out to the bathroom, games on! They race around the house, yard and on the inside! Then they'll take a break and games on once more! So funny to watch. This is so good for Bella!
Everyone loves Bethany at her puppy class! She's so funny to watch and has just entered the "social butterfly stage." Too cute for words! Everyone is amazed at her abilities and how well she follows directions for such a young puppy (when she hasn't found a leaf to play with). There are 10 puppies in the class so needless to say it's fun! You should see them socialize!
Bella is the star of her skill class! Everyone says she's the professional and is amazing. I think all the dogs are great and many things come with time and experience. I'll miss going to both classes when they're over.
I'll send a photo of Bella and Bethany in their Service Dog in Training uniforms. When they have them on each knows it's time to work! They both love going to the Nursing Center. Bella and I have just started going to the newly constructed Assisted Living and Memory Care facility in our area. Everyone there loves her and can't get over how well behaved she is!
I'll write soon and get those photos to you.
Much love,
Cherrie', Bella, and Bethany
