Thursday, April 10, 2008

The Call

So we got 'the call' about Waffle. You're never ready for it, I was picking up a friend at the airport when my leader called, it was crazy and it really didn't sink in until much latter.


Here's her drop notice

SUMMARY: Waffle is a small female with high energy. She was a very willing worker while in training as well as being very food motivated. She showed tendencies to become wet mouth at times. She took a while to warm up to her primary instructor, once she did she became more affectionate and respectful. She had an average to below average distraction level and seem to take on a very serious working attitude in guidework. At times, Waffle had fear reactions towards people in the kennel environment and her recovery was slow in these situations. A set-up situation with an unusual looking person opening an umbrella was done outside of the kennels to further evaluate her temperament. Waffle had a significant fear reaction by barking and bolting away. She did well in CR with other dogs and bones – she seem to prefer chewing on her bone than playing with dogs. She has been roomed with another dog, she played appropriately but has been known to dive for her roommate food. I had a great time with Waffle, she is a fun dog and I wish her well.

She is currently eating 3C SD L & R as well as a stuffed kong a day.
RELEASE REASON(S): 21101 - BEH: Fearful Behavior People Generalized
LOCATION (if applicable):
IMPORTANCE: Primary

I guess they really liked her work drive, they kept working with her on her fear issues but I guess it was too much. It is interesting about the whole food issue because of all our pups, she is the most delicate eaters. She would pick up one kibble at a time crunch it and enjoy her meal. I wonder if that and th e whole 'wet mouth' thing is due to kennel stress. My dogs have never been kenneled prior to being recalled. I know that GDA encourages their pups to spend time in the kennel so they are less stressed when they go in. I think we will start putting Lani in a kennel for a short period of time to get her adjusted to the crazy-ness of it all.

So now comes the hard part, the reality of it is we are not sure if we can handle two dogs at one time. Lani can be puppy sat, but Waffle.... plus could she be happy with us or does she deserve to be with a young family like Tacoma's. Grapes aside, they take her hiking, to the beach, skiing, she has play dates, she gets to sleep on the sofa, and eat snacks - hey come to think of it can be adopted by these people. She is coming home this weekend, so we are going to see how that works out. It would be nice to have an older pup around, one who can show the new kids what's up. But I worry that she will be resentful that she can't go places and has to stay home a lot without her friends.

there is a lot to think about.

12 comments:

Lacey said...

Good luck. I'm sure you'll be pleasantly surprised at how easily she adjusts to life as a pet. I took back my first dog and I think she wondered how come that other puppy (who was NOT there when she left!) got to go out and she didn't, but she adjusted quickly and I'm certain that now she thinks she's the lucky one because we still take her as many places as we can, but she also gets to spend plenty of time at home being lazy. The biggest thing she had to learn was that it was okay to eat people food if we gave her permission. I do, however, think the adjustment is easier if there is already a pet dog in the house, but it can still go quite smoothly. Can't wait to hear how it turns out.

Sarah and the Pack. said...

Good Luck! Having a pet dog around is so much fun. I have two non-guide dogs pups and they love to play with Sterling! I think there are so many things that they can learn from other dogs, and it is so fun to watch them as a pack. Good luck in whatever you do.

Sarah said...

Sorry to hear about Waffle. Here's hoping it works out so she can stay with you forever!

Emily and the Labradors said...

What a bummer... that was the wrong call! It is nice to hear how much she liked working and how much she was liked by her trainer. I hope that she can figure out how to fit herself into your house, or if not that you can place her nearby and still get to see her!

Anna said...

Awww, so sorry to hear about Waffle. I noticed she wasn't on the phase reports. But I hope you're able to find the perfect place for her (wether with you or someone else), and be happy with your choice. That's really what matters.

Hobbes Dogs said...

We are so sorry to hear about Waffle. Thinking good thoughts that everything works out for the best.

Trish ~ ♥ ~ said...

This is the really difficult part of puppy raising as this is a decision WE, as the raisers, must make. I know it's a great disappointment but I am sure Waffle will do well wherever she is destine to be. You did a wonder job raising and loving her.

Brittany said...

So sorry to hear about Waffle! I find it a little odd that the dogs are getting cc'd for drooling before or during eating. If that is the case, Hobbs is in trouble!!

I would be carefull sending Lani to a kennel unless you feel that the stress level of the kennel is VERY closly monitered and controled. Otherwise it may have the opposite effect.

Hopefully Waffle takes well to being a pet, and that it works out to keep her with you!

Career Changed Provo said...

Sorry to hear about Waffle. I'm sure after some time she will adjust just fine to being a pet. My thoughts are with you while trying to make the tough decision of her future.

Kelsey, Keno, Mallory, and Chappelle said...

Sorry to hear about Waffle! Career change is always such a hard thing. But it sounds like she did very well in her guide work. Awesome job raising her, and I'm sure she will continue to have an awesome life from this point forward, whether it's with you or someone else.

MK said...

I'm so sorry to hear about Waffle. As you read in my blog, sometimes they do have a bit of trouble when they come back home. But it does get better and they are happy there. Any way you slice it though, I'm sure Waffle will grow to love wherever she will call home and you did an amazing job raising her. Clearly not for lack of trying was she dropped. Good girl, Waffle, and good luck making your decision, Carrie. I now know how hard of a decision it really is. :-\

Emily said...

I am so sorry to hear about Waffle. It sounds like she did well. Good job to you for raising her, and good job Waffle for making it this far :) Waffle would love coming home, but I know it is a tough decision to make.