Well now that it is time to begin a new week, I would like to reflect briefly on last weeks events. It was such a great week working with “my” dogs. I guess that was the silver lining that I was looking for after my bad luck the previous week.

One of my clients, Sheila, has a wonderful, if not irascible, middle aged Irish Water Spaniel named Mr. McGillicudy (Gilly for short). Because Gilly was attacked as a young puppy, he now finds it difficult to be in the company of dark coloured dogs or dogs with masks. I am also trying to work with him regarding the mailman. Wouldn’t you know it, he was actually submissive to another dog and when put in a down-stay, he stopped trying to get at the mailman. Our time together is beginning to pay off.

I also walk Spock, a Boston Terrier, who has, from day one, been a notorious lunger. He seems to think that he is much bigger than his tiny stature. He is great with dogs, but people? That’s a little bit of a challenge. Since I had my son with me who was eager to help daddy walk the dogs, I figured I would practise getting Spock to relax with strangers. Stacey, Spock’s human companion wanted me to be extra vigilant with kids. Wouldn’t you know it, within 5 minutes Spock was climbing on Ayden to get in a few kisses. Ayden was really great at following my directions and everyone was happy.

It’s times like these when I am overrun with happiness over my choice to become a professional dog walker. The undeniably hot weather has broken somewhat, all my dogs are getting along, I’m getting lots of outdoor exercise. What could be better?