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Eric Lundquist
Eleanor writes...
In the wake of the town board's
decision, Holland Wisconsin, not to issue a variance for the number of dogs I have, I've
been preparing for each dog to go to his new home. What should the dog
take with him to help settle in? What do the new owners need to know
about their training and handling? What do these people need to know
about the dogs' individual likes and dislikes? What their souls are
like?
One of the dogs leaving is my Reno. Oh my God. Reno.
He needs his semi-deflated basket ball. A bumper of course. A cow femur
bone preferably stuffed with peanut butter, but it's fine plain if that's
all there is. He'd like a spot on the couch if one's available, but
he'd never be rude or pushy about it.
He gives 5 with both paws individually and then "10" with
both. After this, he leaps into the air, and then spins one circle and
grabs his tail. He's a very mellow dog by nature, and this trick just
cracks him up. It's his only one.
He barks three barks to let you know someone's arrived, and then quiets.
Other than that, he never makes a noise. His obedience is terrific,
on or off leash. His manners are terrific. He has the temperament of
an angel. He passed his Canine Good Citizen / Therapy Dog International
test as a walk in. He leaves and go lays down when you eat, although
he's happy to help you out with the leftovers if invited. He looks
sad when you give him a bath or trim his nails, but he always cooperates.
Reno always cooperates.
He is wonderful with anyone he meets, human or animal. Any age, any
temperament. He used to go to work with me at the assisted living facility.
There was an old crotchety man who would only take his meds and come
out for meals in exchange for being able to take Reno for a walk and
throw a few bumpers for him. The only time I ever saw this man
let his guard down or his expression soften was when he was with Reno.
He'd been a hunter when he was younger. I guess the dog took him
back to better days.
Reno loves to ride in the car. He makes the most wonderful face if you
ask him about "The Bird." He likes to "tunnel" through
your legs, and stop in position to get scratched above the base of his
tail. His back feet march in place as he does this. He likes to be scratched
behind the ears, too.
On the day he passed the final
series of tests needed for the American Kennel Club to award him the
title Companion Dog, he was mounted by another male dog who had gotten
up during the exercise known as the three minute down. Not only
did Reno not get up from his down, but he looked at me across the ring
and wagged his tail as if to say, "See? I am a GOOD boy."
Yes, Reno. You're a VERY
good boy.
God help me next Wednesday
when he's taken out of here.
Eleanor Herrick
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