Life Lessons

Here is a list of things that Henry has learned since being with us.
1. Foster Dad is his pack leader. (Henry has demonstrated submissive behavior when I insist on it.)
2. Sit (for treats)
3. Wait for pack leader to cross the street before crossing. (Credit to Zico, Henry just imitated him.)
4. Walk nicely with a harness.
5. Peeing is an outdoor only activity.
6. Respect people's space, don't rush out the door, or towards your food. Let the humans eat their food in peace.
7. The crate is not so bad. (Not great, but not so bad.)
He will need continued guidance on all of these, but we are very proud of his progress and he will be a wonderful addition to some lucky family.

     Henry went running at the Arboretum today. He looked like he could have gone at least twice as far without getting tired. (After the run, Zico lay down in the grass, a sure sign that he had enough exercise.) Henry is not daunted by brush, he runs right through it. And when he spots a squirrel, he is a handful, pulling the leash and baying loudly. Just as we entered the park we met a Viszla mix. Elvis was friendly with Henry! They sniffed each other, wagged tails and then Henry lost interest. Maybe the woods were calling him. But it was good to see that there are dogs out there who will befriend him.
     Henry definitely benefits from Zico's presence. When there is noise from the street or from the neighbors, Henry becomes agitated. I deal with this by ignoring Henry and giving affection to calm-and-relaxed Zico. Henry then calms down and he gets affection too. Only if Henry is highly agitated and barks and rushes the door, do I assert authority and make him back down. When we are on a walk, if Zico and I stop walking, Henry stops too, and waits for everyone to move before he moves. And Zico is a great role model for sitting, especially when treats are involved.