This has been a really rough year for a lot of people and here is another one. This is from Sarah in Indy. She was “gifted” a X-litter Ana puppy from an wonderful person in PA to be used as an autism service dog.
Hello,You may have seen on the news that there was a neighborhood in Indianapolis that was devastated by an explosion. That was my neighborhood. What is left of our home was five houses from the house that exploded. Garrett got the kids out of the house and I carried Angel. We had shoes on, but I was so worried about Angel’s paws, I carried her the whole way out of the neighborhood. Funny thing is, I don’t remember her being heavy even though I know she is. Anyway, I just wanted to let you know that Angel is safe. She was in her crate for the night when the explosion hit the house and we carried her the rest of the way. Unfortunately, I don’t have a back yard for her to play in now. We are in the Holiday Inn Express until State Farm can find other housing for us, but it is taking a while because of the size of our family and Angel’s breed. We are going to get her a pass to a dog park so she can run. If you have any suggestions, I am more than willing to listen. I am worried that she is stressed out like the rest of us.Sarah Schout
Sarah and her husband and two boys the day they picked up Angle, their x-litter Ana puppy:
Is there anyone close by that would be able to puppy-sit for you, until things settle down a bit?
Terri
Sarah, I am so sorry that this happened to you and your family, but very thankful that you made it out safely.
I’ve been on the road with Batman for several trips where outdoor space was limited. One thing I did to occupy him was K9 nosework. Here is a video of a session we did from a hotel room: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=OaDSXYHA_wg&feature=plcp
This one is more instructional: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=tydXBiP7668&feature=plcp
The area we use to practice is a 10×10 ft room, so not too much space required, and the only equipment you need to start are cardboard boxes and treats.
Other ideas are challenging toys or food toys. Batman likes the Sir Bobs a Lot, and Premier Pet Busy Buddy toys. Giving your dog a challenge or rewarding problem to solve may help alleviate their stress, and might help lift everyone’s spirits, as Julie’s pups are so fun to watch.
And nothing beats an empty water jug (toss the cap) for entertainment value! Batman can play with one for hours.
Sometimes when Batman seems stressed, I will give him a shoulder and face massage. I rub the muscle in his jaws, behind the ears, back of the neck, and around his shoulder blades. This relaxes us both.
When I need a massage, I use one of his unused Chuckit tennis balls (harder than regular tennis balls) and roll my back on it, lying on the floor. It’s a great massage! I have one Chuckit that I’ve saved just for this purpose. I also step the arch of my foot on the ball to knead out soreness.
Sarah, I went back and re-read your post and I’m asking you to please accept my apology. DUH I doubt that in your situation you want your family split up. Angel is most likely a great comfort to you.
In addition to Jennies’ super ideas…perhaps there are local clubs nearby that would let you participate in some puppy fun? Puppy agility is a good way to exercise and build puppy confidence. Indoor swimming for pups in the nearby area? Or good ole fetch the ball can help out alot.
In my past puppies…I always liked to take them to childrens’ playgrounds. You can have all sorts of adventures there.
I’m sorry you and your family are in this situation. At this time of thanks, Thank God that you made it out safely. In time this will pass and your lives will return to you. Hugs to you, Terri
Sarah,
Do you need any essentials that were lost in the explosion? Dog toys? Clothes? Let me know if I can help.
Jennifer
How awful for you and your family. Thankgoodness you are all safe. You were very brave to think of Angel and to carry her to safety.