A Pack of Diva Doodles

 

The good news is that Stanley is having moments of acting like a regular dog instead of a crazy puppy. We didn’t kick him out despite all of the people sharing about how perfect their puppies were. It reminded me of when Jennifer, the oldest daughter, was an infant. Yes, I’m naming names. I don’t think she can sue me for this.

She wasn’t the easiest baby on the block. While I was practically incoherent from sleep deprivation, other new moms were bragging about how their babies were sleeping through the night and never had colic. I figured they were all lying.

ELBEE Has anyone noticed that pack leader has issues with sleep deprivation?

I realized something about Stanley. He has been a member of a pack from day one. He moved from his birth pack straight to the Morrow pack. It’s like he skipped kindergarten and went right to first grade. As anyone who has skipped a grade can tell you, it can be challenging, especially if you look older and are still chewing shoes.

Fortunately, Stanley has made some real progress at being accepted. Gus, who was not his biggest fan, runs around and wrestles with him. I’d almost go so far as to say they’ve become buddies. Even more amazing, Elbee seems to have become his role model.

ELBEE I am a fabulous role model.

I wanted to see if I could put that to good use so I did a little experiment. When he and Stanley were sitting together, I told them both to stay, confident that Elbee would but that Stanley probably wouldn’t. To my surprise, after only two or three tries, it worked. Stanley didn’t move until I called them both to come. Wonder if I can get Elbee to work on the leash walking.

ELBEE She doesn’t pay me enough.

Stanley has quickly picked up something else from his “brothers.” He loves attention and refuses to be left out or ignored. If you pet one of the others, he will find a way to get in on the action. Uh oh! Do I have another diva in training?

ELBEE AND GUS Let us pray.

Our last vet visit at VCA was a perfect example. Elbee had an appointment. Stanley was just along for the ride. There was all kinds of excitement as soon as Dr. Hughes Sanders, whom the dogs adore, walked into the room. When he sat down on the floor to examine Elbee, Stanley nudged his way in next to him, pushing Elbee to the side. He obviously thought that it should be his appointment.

 

 

 

 

 

 

When that wasn’t enough, he put his paws on Dr. Sander’s shoulders. Just to seal the deal, he started licking him. He probably should have been stopped but he was so funny and so cute that we both ended up laughing.

 

 

 

 

 

 

ELBEE And she wonders why she has trouble training him. By the way, I am the pile of white fluff on the floor. I am also a saint.