Royal K9 Korner: Shanti Meets Koda and Bentley

Shanti had plenty of time to get used to our yard and all the toys. Koda wasn't due to arrive until just after1 pm. It was a perfect relaxed day for her and she made good use of it to investigate every inch. At first she stayed close by Lady May, but soon wandered off further.

Lady May - "Im just going to relax here in the grass Shanti. You can go play if you want to"

Wow, this is kinda like an adventure for me. So many sights so many smells!

I found a ball here! I wonder who left it here?

The strawberries are covered for the winter so she wasn't able to try them out but she did get a good snuffle in them. I missed that picture! Drat!

I think I can smell some of that wonderful white stuff.

I tagged along behind as her curiosity diminished. She made her way back to the basement door mat. She sat her little bottom down on the heated mat and just smelled the cool air for a while. Such a little darling. She knew where to head back when she had enough outdoor time. So in we went and cozied on a mat in between toy time and lunch time.

I really like these tuff chew toys! I have to tell my dad to buy me some!

Soon it was time for Koda to arrive. I was glad I had spent ample time with Lady May and Shanti. I knew Koda (read Koda's M&G here) would be worried when his dad left him alone. Day care is very new to him and this would be a big challenge for him. I made sure to put a good sized halter on him for safety. You all know how much I despise tugging on a dogs collar. Dad was wonderful and agreed to do a walk around the yard together with Koda before he left. I believe it gives an added bit of peace of mind and to feel safer. Having dad stay a bit longer was good in an effort to make being left, less stressful. Leaving when a dog is calm is so much easier on them and us. More so than having them frantically tugging and crying at the gate. We walked with Dad walked back to the gate. Dad said, "See ya buddy. You stay" and off he drove. Koda watched in silence. What a hard thing, but what a good boy! We spent awhile outdoors alone before going in to meet Shanti and reintroduce Lady May.

Did I hear my dad's truck??

Okay I'll check out the yard and smells here but I'm listening for dad.

Koda - "I'm still watching and listening for my dad though."

For the first while, as expected Koda became more worried. He really wanted to stand by the gate and watch. I always allow some time for them to pine their mom and dad. Then I step in and redirect and distract them away. A dog will continue to watch and they tend to get themselves into a state of heavy anxiety if allowed to go on. Even though Koda really didn't want to leave the gate, he did comply when I used my knee to gently push him into the direction away from the gate. He was hesitant when I tugged on the halter but slowly allowed himself to be redirected to the house. Then he walked with a loose lead. It was time to go indoors where there was more distractions and less opportunity to see the road. He even settled enough to relax on the porch with Lady May It didn't take long for that to be too much for him. Seeing people coming and going and cars on the road I put up my doorway gate and had him stay indoors. He still could look out but his vision was limited. Slowly, minute by minute we went through the day.

Koda- "Oh good I can see the gate"

Shanti was very excited to meet a new dog and had trouble remaining calm enough to allow for free time together with Koda in his current state of concern. He stood politely still and allowed a greeting by Shanti. When it was time to reciprocate the 'hello' Shanti moved just a bit to fast and scared Koda. I see no reason to introduce dogs further when the possibility of them having to be buddies is pretty much zilch in the future. So up went my barrier fence and the day progressed in safe separation. Walking on lead back and forth, every so often. Making sure each one passed the other on lead a little closer, always a safe distance between, but close enough to touch noses or body when they seemed ready. One in each yard with a fence separating them and always on lead. Koda relaxed well enough for the better part of the afternoon. I even dropped the gates for a short time.

"Shanti - "But I only want to play with you!"
Koda - "Yes, I know, but I'm not ready!"

Shanti obligingly staying comfy in a gated off area while Koda stretches to relax.

Shanti decided she may as well nap in the crate if she's going to be here anyway.

Koda made it through the first 3 1/2 hours with loads of cuddles and ear scrunchies, belly rubs and bum rubs. We brushed his back end and scratched his shoulders and head and neck for him. We had a few cookies. We had a calm play afternoon full of redirection and distractions. Koda had his fill of us and was more determined to get home by the time 4:30 came around. He saw a car across the street that may have reminded him of his own. He wanted home NOW! I could feel his desperation and texted mom and dad like we had agreed earlier. Koda's mom came to pick him up and he was over the moon.

Is my mom coming to get me now?

Yes, Koda, mom is on her way. We'll do another short day, soon for you buddy. You're a very good boy and I look forward to another visit with you. Thank you for your patience with us today buddy!

Shanti and Lady May are gaining more comfort with each other. Its so cute to see little Shanti cozy up beside her. They sleep like angels at night and have a renewed energy for the morning.
Good thing.
The next day it was Bentley's turn to meet Shanti.