Hello, Sandy.
First I want to tell you that we took Dori on the river last week. We were all so relaxed and had a great time. Once we put her life vest on everyone assumed she was in search and rescue training because she was bright orange and incredibly well behaved.
After that we ended up at Petco looking for the back pack you suggested we try. It happened to be adopt a dog day so I had to maneuver Dori past a large group of dogs. She did okay. I know we'll have to work harder at that, but using your methods we got through it pretty well. Someone let their little dog wander up to Dori from behind. There was no time to react so I slacked up on the leash and did some happy talkin.' Dori was fine with this little dog, who turned out to be a new puppy weighing 4lbs. My biggest concern was that Dori might sit on her! She was startled, but fine.
On Mothers Day we went to a local fishing pond with our mom. Dori was delightful. Her focus was taken from time to time by the Geese and the people, but I was able to keep her in check. We went to Hospice in the afternoon and she never left my side unless directed to. She was far less uncomfortable and unsure of herself, falling asleep under the bed of the last person we visited.
I introduced her to the tunnel for agility that I bought last year. She didn't like it, but after 15 minutes of hanging out on the ground with her she followed me in and now she's running laps through it. I put it away last summer because she just hated it and refused to go through.
I forwarded the pictures because I wanted you to see how happy she is. Obviously we are thrilled, but Dori has become relaxed and happy. She's in my basement studio asleep at my feet. This is not like her and such a pleasure.
