Shirley

A Forever Home of Her Own

Shirley sitting pretty for the camera!  What a smart girl!

Here are some pictures of Shirley! She really is the best dog and is SO SMART! She has mastered sit, down (lay down), and stay (with the exception of her being really excited, then its hard to keep her attention long enough to do it). She is great to run and walk with because it just seems like she can go forever. She also loves raw hides and will go through two or so a day.

We go to the park at least three or four times a week and she always does well. This weekend we are going to go up to the dog park to let her sniff around and watch and maybe try playing in the next couple weeks. She has done great with all of the dogs I've had her play with- everything from a 15lb Pomeranian and a cat to a 50lb collie.

When she first came home with me I let her sleep in the bed but now she has her own next to me on the floor with all of her stuffed animals, blankets and pillow (and she actually sleeps with her head on the pillow!). She hasn't had any accidents in the house since her first week here and I've had to get her a raincoat because she won't go outside to go to the bathroom in the rain!
 
I've also started boarding her at 4 Paws Inn where I work one to two nights a week because she does have separation anxiety. Its not horrible but at first she won't eat, let anyone play with her and she would get diarrhea and vomit as well as pace back and forth. She also has a little bit of male aggression, but I've decided that it is all about the tone of their voice and whether they approach her or if they let her approach them. At my house, the first time everyone comes over, I hand them a treat as they come in for them to give to Shirley and introduce themselves. It has really worked well. Last week she was even playing and wrestling with me and a couple guy friends- she was hilarious!

She is a great dog and while we still have a little work to do, I couldn't be happier.

Thank you for everything and I hope you enjoy the pictures!

Alisha

Shirley sitting pretty on her bed.



Shirley showing how well she can "stay" at the park.

Shirley and Alisha sharing a hug.

"Gee Mom - I really do LOVE you!!!"

Shirley getting a bath and not looking too terribly fond of the whole situation.

Ben & Shirley, both adopted from HSEC, now live beside each other and have become BEST BUDS!

Ben & Shirley pose for the camera during a break in their playtime.

Ben & Shirley checking each other out before they start their romp in the yard.