Harri is getting there!

[cambrensis]

Harri has been with me just over a year now. As you know I had many problems with him as he came from the Dog's Trust.

Having persuaded him, as part of his social training, that if I call somebody in then he is allowed to say hi, but not approach unless I tell him it's all right, I decided that now was the time to get him to socialise with other dogs. For months now he has, on seeing another dog, been coming close to heel and sitting. This allows the owner to pass on safely. So far, so good...

The breakthrough has come over the last fortnight. Around the corner lives a little Shid Tzu bitch named "Lacey". Her owner and I have been keeping to opposite sides of the street in case of problems. About two weeks ago we agreed to allow them to stand close to see what happened. Surprise! They barked at each other....then sniffed....then "kissed" for want of a better word. Both animals are neutered.

Today, we met up and walked the dogs together! I had thought I'd never experience that again.

Here's a 'phone pic of the two just standing. I am sure you will know which is which!!

[sucadot]

It's great to learn of Harri's progress - lovely to know your love and patience has been rewarded.

[cambrensis]

Thanks you, Sue. Yes, it has been patience - not only mine but that of other regular dog walkers in my area who have listened to the tale and understood the aim.
What I love especially is that an elderly dog which had been messed around all its life, now knows routine and is comfortable with it. If something unusual occurs he does not simply panic and attack but looks at me to be given a clue about his response. He is finding life can be easy; I too can have my snoozes knowing Harri will keep me posted should it be necessary. ,,.nice!

[cambrensis]

He has now added three more dogs to his list. Better than that, I have discovered him to be both literate and numerate!

I had tossed a letter into a waste bin (return address was headed PPI). I was speaking with a neighbour when she told me he had a sheet of paper he was playing with. He had been into the bin and torn open the letter, the bottom section of which turned out to be a cheque for over £1500!!!! Thanks, Harri! I have learned a valuable lesson and you get a great Christmas dinner!!

Needless to say, I have deposited the cheque already! Yay!!!

[sucadot]

He has now added three more dogs to his list. Better than that, I have discovered him to be both literate and numerate!

I had tossed a letter into a waste bin (return address was headed PPI). I was speaking with a neighbour when she told me he had a sheet of paper he was playing with. He had been into the bin and torn open the letter, the bottom section of which turned out to be a cheque for over £1500!!!! Thanks, Harri! I have learned a valuable lesson and you get a great Christmas dinner!!

Needless to say, I have deposited the cheque already! Yay!!!

I've heard of golden retrievers but not cheque retrievers

What a lovely early Christmas present for you Ian, and a super way for Harri to repay you for your love and patience with him!

Just off to check my waste bin ......

[maplegin]

Lovely to hear things are working for you & Harri . sounds as though you will be able to have a good Christmas

[cambrensis]

Thank you both, Sue and Maple!

I treated myself to an extra bowl of vanilla ice cream in celebration. Unfortunately, I had run out of chocolate sauce, so had to make do with a couple of fingers of peach schnapps - such a shame....