Knuckleheads Christmas gift

Everyone here knows the trials and tribulations with Ellie the hall monitor and "I'm afraid of everything" Buffett. It's been a long two years of training and retraining and we have seen some progress.

When hubby decided our foster Margie (Marley) had to stay, I was dreading the dynamic change.

Margie is sweet, even tempered, playful, and typical sheepie. I figured Ellie would try to slap her into submission and Buffett would hide from her. Not so, Ellie is still the hall monitor, but has calmed her approach. She's more like Mom with a litter to watch over. Ellie plays with Margie until play gets too rambunctious, and then Ellie insists on calming down. When Ellie is in a good mood, she will share toys with Margie.

Buffett doesn't shy away from Margie at all. In fact she is teaching Buffett how to play with toys. I have to monitor the play as in the past Buff would broadside his playmates like a full speed freight train. Now that he has figured out toys, he will grab a toy and invite the others to chase him.

Meanwhile, rather than walking the dogs in a group, I'm taking each one separately, spending individual time and working on a little basic training.

I was aware of some changes in the pack and each individual over the last few months, but didn't see the real change until another foster arrived on Sunday.

I thought I was in for some real issues trying to bring in a temporary 4th dog, but to my immense relief, Bella melded into the pack immediately. :phew:

I saw Ellie take Bella under her grumpy wing. Buffett enticed her to play, and Margie taught her the ropes in the car.

Buffet is still twitchy and Ellie is still bossy, but my three stooges gave me the best Christmas present ever, PEACE on EARTH (and in the house).
Respond to this topic here on forum.oes.org  
What a great story, and what a testament to patience! 8) Congratulations on the peaceful house!
That is a really great story!
Thanks for sharing your great story of peace on earth and goodwill to all dogs :D :D :D :D

You are amazing for your patience as the pack leader, its fantastic to hear what you can do with a little love and understanding.
Enjoyed reading that.
Thank you so much for sharing your story! It's wonderful to read that with some time and effort, it is possible for things to work out. So happy you got the best Christmas gift ever. :D
Fabulous story!

As someone with a four dog household, I discovered that "plus one more" makes the pack mellow a bit.

Of course, after a couple of months and everyone settles in....

8)

Until then, enjoy peace on earth!

:D
I'm glad to hear a good update on your dogs!
You have done a great job. :D
Aaaawwww, wonderful story! It's nice your 3-pack is willing to accept guests!

susan
:clappurple: :kiss: :clappurple:
Didn't find exactly what you're looking for? Search again here:
Custom Search
Counter

[Home] [Get A Sheepdog] [Community] [Memories]
[OES Links] [OES Photos] [Grooming] [Merchandise] [Search]

Identifying Ticks info Greenies Info Interceptor info Glucosamine Info
Rimadyl info Heartgard info ProHeart Info Frontline info
Revolution Info Dog Allergies info Heartworm info Dog Wormer info
Pet Insurance info Dog Supplements info Vitamins Info Bach's Rescue Remedy
Dog Bite info Dog Aggression info Boarding Kennel info Pet Sitting Info
Dog Smells Pet Smells Get Rid of Fleas Hip Displasia info
Diarrhea Info Diarrhea Rice Water AIHA Info
Sheepdog Grooming Grooming-Supplies Oster A5 info Slicker Brush info
Dog Listener Dog's Mind Dog Whisperer

Please contact our Webmaster with questions or comments.
  Please read our PRIVACY statement and Terms of Use

 

Copyright 2000 - 2012 by OES.org. All rights reserved.