Nugget's First Four Hour Visit

What a fun day to reopen daycare after a week off. Little 8 year old Nugget came for her 4 hour previsit.
She came through the gate with excitement and headed straight to find her favourite toy.

"Hey Lady? Wanna play catch?"

She’s a darling little girl and was not concerned about being left in my care at all. We played together awhile before the sun was too hot. She changed toys a few times but always sought one that squeaked. Well, of course she did. Wouldn’t you?
She kept me laughing watching her playing IN the toys. As normal, it seems, for little dogs, she always choose the biggest toys and really kinda ignored the smaller ones this time.

I'm ready to play now. Let's go in the yard!

We spent time getting familiar with the house, gates,my voice and movements as well as the stairs. We went back and forth, indoors, and out and chose a different entrance each time. Nugget likes to zoom up the stairs and she taught me to step aside during those times. She’s a very little girl and climbing up the ‘tall’ steps requires a bit of speed. That’s just fine little girl. I get it and this is one of the reasons a trial visit before any others are present works best. I’ll be sure she heads out at the same time Lady May does when others visit. Safety first.

Nugget seemed very comfortable during her visit and most of our time was devoted to toys.  She was attentive to my voice and her recall was so good I dropped her long lead and the harness came off her very soon.
We played mostly in and around the pool. The heat didn’t seem to bother Nugget this day. I'm quite sure staying by the pool helped and was great fun for her. I made sure the depth of the water was safe for her and wondered whether the height of the sides would be a problem. She took her time and very soon she figured out exactly how to get the toys out. A bit of scrambling at first but once she’d removed a few times she was up and over the edge like a pro. Good girl Nugget. 

Mom had told me Nugget is not fond of other dogs so we'll be going very slow with any introductions to buddies. She is booked for a 4 day visit soon and so far I have those days free of others. Perhaps a couple hour drop in, depending how things go.  I'll play it by ear.
My goal is to keep Nugget happy and most of all, feeling safe and secure.
At the moment she seems to trust us and I plan on holding on to that.

Hey where's all the toys Lady May?

Oh Yes! This is way more fun!

Even indoors, Nugget was not interested in a nap and continued to ask for play. That's okay by me. I can easily do a 4 hour playday with this little darling.

I'm waiting for you to throw this one. Are you ready?

The time flew by and it was soon home time. When she saw her mom come through the gate she immediately ran off to find the toy she likes best and brought it to show her  mom.

What a little darling. I'm happy to welcome you to Royal K9 Korner little Nugget.
I'm certain you'll enjoy your upcoming visits as much as I will.