Friday, May 15, 2009

Gracie graduates from dog training class

Grace at the Dog Groomers

It was a big day for Gracie. She went to the groomer and then graduation from her basic obedience class. I am so proud of her! She was very brave at the groomers. The ladies at "It's A Dog's Life" took the time to learn about her and make, what I assume is her first professional groomer experience, a comfortable one for her. She got her nails trimmed, a bath, and a nice brushing and cut all without complaint. She is beautiful, if I do say so myself.
All groomed!

She was a little cranky with a couple of the pups at dog class that wanted to romp – maybe she thought they'd mess up her new doo. Her trainer Lisa explained that she gave an appropriate response to move the pups out of her space. I think we both felt a little embarrassed by her crankiness – but she calmed down and even tried to catch a nap. At the end of class, the dogs got their photos taken with their graduating caps. Too cute. The positive reinforcement and good manners she learned from Lisa (WagWag) got her off to a good start in her new home. She did very well – even if her favorite command seemed to be "settle" – for which she got to lay down and get the occasional treat for just laying there. She is a very smart dog indeed.
Diploma from WagWag   Grace with Graduation Cap


Thursday, May 14, 2009

Does your state have a "puppy friendly pet store"?

The Puppy Friendly Pet Stores initiative asks dog lovers everywhere to work with their local pet stores to encourage them to develop and implement "puppy friendly" policies by refusing to sell puppies in their store and supporting homeless pet adoptions instead. Stores that already do not sell puppies can sign up to show that they are taking a stand against puppy mills and to "make official" their policy of not selling puppies.
Read more about the Puppy Friendly Pet Stores Initiative.


Sunday, May 10, 2009

Gracie Goes to PetsMart

Today was Gracie's first visit to PetsMart. She loved it. She walked in the door and was delighted to see adults, kids, and dogs. She spun around and parked herself in the middle of the entry floor to greet the people coming in. She enjoyed meeting people – maybe because everyone she meets tells her how beautiful she is. There was so much to explore! Dog bowls, kibble on the floor from a broken bag, an aisle of rawhide treats. Wow! What a great place. She left very happy – but kept looking back in the parking lot. We'll be going back to PetsMart soon!