Rescued beagles experience grass & sunlight for the 1st time

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I've always liked to think that cats and dogs believe snoring is our way of purring. I'm sure I'm totally wrong, but I like to think it. :)
 
Just a quickie update: Romi continues to be amazingly resilient and is pushing his boundaries all the time; this is good...it means he's willing to explore, and to trust himself and me and the other critters, and he's slowly moving past his limits.

It rained last night, a lot, so both dogs had inside day today. This is the first time since Romi's been outside for extended times that he wasn't allowed to go outside, only for 5 minutes to pee at breakfast time. He was not sure what was going on...he got a bit scared of the rain, and wouldn't come back out of the bushes until I got my shoes on and went and picked him up. But he wasn't comfy inside, either. So I gave some bones (usually a nighttime treat), and then he settled in to a long morning of chewing.

See, this thing with bones...it's so good to watch him chew them. I doubt he'd ever seen a bone, let alone had one to himself, until he got here. He had a hard time learning what to do with them, but Gracie, role model that she is, showed him. Now he loves chewing so much that he'll walk over and steal them from Gracie. LOL.

He also loves to lay in the sun. As the sun travels across the backyard, he'll sleep in it, move to stay in it, and go back to sleep...all day. It's too cute...and I love that he's really enjoying grass and sunshine.

He's still not working well with the leash, but we're going slowly. That's the last hurdle to overcome before I bring him into the "rest of the world," you know? I want him to be comfortable on a leash before we do that, because I can't imagine how scared he'd be if he had a leash on that he didn't like, and then was outside his comfort zone of the backyard. It's slow, and I don't really have many tricks in my bag, but we're working on it. I suspect he will do a lot of time in a portable pen with Gracie while I garden in the front yard this spring...maybe that will help him. Dunno.

Anyway, he continues to be more and more willing to ask for snuggles and lovies. He has been seen waving at me from across the room when he thinks Grace has had enough belly rubs and it's his turn already. LOL. And he loves having his chest and belly rubbed...just loves it.

Romeo is progressing nicely...YAY!! Just thought I'd let you all know.

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Herding Cats
 
YAY for Romeo! And another YAY FOR Gracie for being such a great role model.

One more YAY for HC for all she is doing for the doggies.
 
Thanks for the update, HC. I envisioned the portable pen while you were gardening and it sounds wonderful. However, I was thinking he may get afraid, being penned up and separated from you. When it comes time, another way to try it would be to put the portable pen around the area you're working on (if it's the kind of pen I'm thinking of), so you're 'in' there also. Then once he's used to it, just put them in another area while you garden nearby. He may be fine with the whole thing so it may not be necessary - but just a thought I had. :)
 
belimom said:
Thanks for the update, HC. I envisioned the portable pen while you were gardening and it sounds wonderful. However, I was thinking he may get afraid, being penned up and separated from you. When it comes time, another way to try it would be to put the portable pen around the area you're working on (if it's the kind of pen I'm thinking of), so you're 'in' there also. Then once he's used to it, just put them in another area while you garden nearby. He may be fine with the whole thing so it may not be necessary - but just a thought I had. :)
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I don't know if the pen is going to be big enough for me, Gracie, and Romeo, and still allow me to get anything done. LOL. Gracie is as big as a person now; she'll stand on her hinds and put her paws on my shoulder, and we see eye to eye...I'm just a hair under 5'7". She weighs less than me though. LOL.

I'm going to try an intermediate step, though. When stretched out, the pen will cross the driveway, so I'm thinking that when I'm working on the kitchen garden, and/or working on the garage, I can put the pen up, leave the backyard gate open, and he can come and go like Gracie does. That way, he can start to see the "big world", and see that Gracie is calm and mellow, and maybe over time I can move the pen down the drive so he can see more and get more comfortable with things.

And I'm starting to use the harness on him. I'm wondering if he hasn't had some neck trauma, or something scared him...he is not happy about his collar but tolerates it as long as no one is touching it. So I'm thinking if I put the harness on, and let the leash drag behind it (while supervised, of course), he may adjust to that without previous issues coming into play.

I don't know. This one stumps me. I've dealt with horses who were scared of being led, and was able to get through to them easier than I'm making progress with Romi in this instance.

I really can't complain, though. He's come soooo very far, and he's been trying soooo very hard. We'll just keep at it, and I'll keep trying to figure out something that is a reassuring method for him. It's just a good thing he's not nearly as big as Gracie, because I do have to carry him a lot. LOL...between Gracie on a leash and Romi being lifted, I swear, I'm stronger than I've been in years. LOL.

It'll come. There will be a break-through moment, and he'll make the leap of faith. He's done it before, and I have no doubt that he's not done with his socialization and surprises and willingness to try. He's a sweet, dear boy, and is working his little heart out to overcome his previous existence.


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Herding Cats
 
Herding Cats said:
I don't know if the pen is going to be big enough for me, Gracie, and Romeo, and still allow me to get anything done. LOL. Gracie is as big as a person now; she'll stand on her hinds and put her paws on my shoulder, and we see eye to eye...I'm just a hair under 5'7". She weighs less than me though. LOL.

I'm going to try an intermediate step, though. When stretched out, the pen will cross the driveway, so I'm thinking that when I'm working on the kitchen garden, and/or working on the garage, I can put the pen up, leave the backyard gate open, and he can come and go like Gracie does. That way, he can start to see the "big world", and see that Gracie is calm and mellow, and maybe over time I can move the pen down the drive so he can see more and get more comfortable with things.

And I'm starting to use the harness on him. I'm wondering if he hasn't had some neck trauma, or something scared him...he is not happy about his collar but tolerates it as long as no one is touching it. So I'm thinking if I put the harness on, and let the leash drag behind it (while supervised, of course), he may adjust to that without previous issues coming into play.

I don't know. This one stumps me. I've dealt with horses who were scared of being led, and was able to get through to them easier than I'm making progress with Romi in this instance.

I really can't complain, though. He's come soooo very far, and he's been trying soooo very hard. We'll just keep at it, and I'll keep trying to figure out something that is a reassuring method for him. It's just a good thing he's not nearly as big as Gracie, because I do have to carry him a lot. LOL...between Gracie on a leash and Romi being lifted, I swear, I'm stronger than I've been in years. LOL.

It'll come. There will be a break-through moment, and he'll make the leap of faith. He's done it before, and I have no doubt that he's not done with his socialization and surprises and willingness to try. He's a sweet, dear boy, and is working his little heart out to overcome his previous existence.


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Herding Cats
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You :rocker:
 
Just have to brag on this lil guy today. He is becoming soooo brave!

I had the floor refinisher guy come in to give me an estimate. Gracie went nuts - barking, howling...leaping. And when she leaps, she can clear my head. All she wants is lovin, and is excited to see new people in her space, and doesn't mean them any harm, but still, it's intimidating (and impressive) to watch.

I was unsure of how Romi'd take someone in our house...someone he doesn't know, and certainly doesn't trust. I figured he'd get out to the grass area, and maybe bark a bit, or even run and hide.

Nope...he stood right there with Gracie, and barked and bayed, too. I am not sure if he was upset or wanting to see this person, but I am just so pleased he was not too scared, and stood his ground, and didn't run away. Just stood there and let it be known he existed. Like I said, not sure if he was defensive or curious or neither/both, but he stood there at the door and didn't leave it.

I am so tickled. So pleased. And just so proud of this boy. He's come a long way, you know? A long, long way.

Just thought I'd share.

best-
Herding Cats
 
Herding Cats said:
Just have to brag on this lil guy today. He is becoming soooo brave!

I had the floor refinisher guy come in to give me an estimate. Gracie went nuts - barking, howling...leaping. And when she leaps, she can clear my head. All she wants is lovin, and is excited to see new people in her space, and doesn't mean them any harm, but still, it's intimidating (and impressive) to watch.

I was unsure of how Romi'd take someone in our house...someone he doesn't know, and certainly doesn't trust. I figured he'd get out to the grass area, and maybe bark a bit, or even run and hide.

Nope...he stood right there with Gracie, and barked and bayed, too. I am not sure if he was upset or wanting to see this person, but I am just so pleased he was not too scared, and stood his ground, and didn't run away. Just stood there and let it be known he existed. Like I said, not sure if he was defensive or curious or neither/both, but he stood there at the door and didn't leave it.

I am so tickled. So pleased. And just so proud of this boy. He's come a long way, you know? A long, long way.

Just thought I'd share.

best-
Herding Cats
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Dear Herding Cats,

Just reading this put tears in my eyes, especially your comment about how Romi "Just stood there and let it be known he existed." How profound and moving!

It is so amazing to share Romi's story through your posts -- how an abused dog grows into his birthright and learns how to simply be who he is, a dog. The sheer joy we get from these 4-legged creatures when they act the way their instincts guide them cannot be measured.

I applaud you, and I applaud Romi for having the strength and courage to open up his heart to love and healing. Animals such as Romi are our greatest teachers!
 
Herding Cats said:
Just have to brag on this lil guy today. He is becoming soooo brave!

I had the floor refinisher guy come in to give me an estimate. Gracie went nuts - barking, howling...leaping. And when she leaps, she can clear my head. All she wants is lovin, and is excited to see new people in her space, and doesn't mean them any harm, but still, it's intimidating (and impressive) to watch.

I was unsure of how Romi'd take someone in our house...someone he doesn't know, and certainly doesn't trust. I figured he'd get out to the grass area, and maybe bark a bit, or even run and hide.

Nope...he stood right there with Gracie, and barked and bayed, too. I am not sure if he was upset or wanting to see this person, but I am just so pleased he was not too scared, and stood his ground, and didn't run away. Just stood there and let it be known he existed. Like I said, not sure if he was defensive or curious or neither/both, but he stood there at the door and didn't leave it.

I am so tickled. So pleased. And just so proud of this boy. He's come a long way, you know? A long, long way.

Just thought I'd share.

best-
Herding Cats
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Glad to hear about Romi. :thumb:

I used to deliver pizzas and I'm 5'5". If that dog had leaped on me or just up over my noggin I'd be taking you to court for a new pair of skivvies, pants and driver's seat. :giggle:

PS: I know she's precious and wouldn't hurt a fly, but I wouldn't know that! :eek:
 
Herding Cats said:
Just have to brag on this lil guy today. He is becoming soooo brave!

I had the floor refinisher guy come in to give me an estimate. Gracie went nuts - barking, howling...leaping. And when she leaps, she can clear my head. All she wants is lovin, and is excited to see new people in her space, and doesn't mean them any harm, but still, it's intimidating (and impressive) to watch.

I was unsure of how Romi'd take someone in our house...someone he doesn't know, and certainly doesn't trust. I figured he'd get out to the grass area, and maybe bark a bit, or even run and hide.

Nope...he stood right there with Gracie, and barked and bayed, too. I am not sure if he was upset or wanting to see this person, but I am just so pleased he was not too scared, and stood his ground, and didn't run away. Just stood there and let it be known he existed. Like I said, not sure if he was defensive or curious or neither/both, but he stood there at the door and didn't leave it.

I am so tickled. So pleased. And just so proud of this boy. He's come a long way, you know? A long, long way.

Just thought I'd share.

best-
Herding Cats
Click to expand...

bbm

Pack mentality! He's learning to be a dog! Woo hoo!!!! :woohoo:

So proud of this little guy and of you, HC. Thanks for sharing.
 
So we had a better opportunity to assess today, with the tree guy. I have probably 30 trees on a 6,500 sq foot lot, lining the house. Wonderful old trees, some as tall as 75-100 feet. Problem is, they haven't been pruned/thinned in probably 20 years, so there are some serious concerns about deadwood, wind, and so on. So I brought the gardeners I use tree guy out.

Gracie, of course, had no problem, except she is scary to see jumping around. LOL, like I've said, she's just happy to see someone, but they don't realize that, and she can be pretty intimidating. LOL.

This time, Romi barked along with Gracie, until we came into the back yard. Then, he was very unsure about the tree guy...but did not run, did not hide, and showed no defensive aggression or tendency to flee. He stayed within about 10 feet from where we were, and once he decided that there was no threat, he relaxed...sat down, and watched. He had a huge look of concern on his face, but didn't show any inclination to run, hide, or do anything inappropriate.

This was a huge challenge for him...huge. Someone strange was in his backyard, and that's not happened before. And he handled it very, very well. He really is doing well. I am so proud of him. We will be working on this a lot in the coming months, but he's got a great start.

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Herding Cats
 
Go Romi, Go, be a beagle, letz mumz love on you and be a dog!!! I wuvs u and your famly bery much! Lubs, Mumzcarer.
 
Just found this thread! Totally melted my heart. Love it.
 
He did really well yesterday, I'm so proud of him, I can't even tell you.

I think I've begun to understand why he has leash issues. It's not the leash, per se, and it's probably not "neck trauma" (as another dog from this batch is suffering...). I think it has a lot more to do with him being brought out of his cage by the scruff of his neck.

This morning, I accidentally pulled on his scruff (I lost my balance when sitting down for lovies...thanks, Gracie!), and he growled at me, dug his claws into the concrete, and pulled back. I kinda sat there, thinking about it. He wasn't growling at me, exactly, but he was seriously protesting being moved by his neck. Quite clearly.

I thought it was interesting, and put myself in his place. If his experience has only been human hands reaching in, grabbing him by the scruff, and then taking him places that they did medical testing on him, well no wonder he has concerns and issues about being moved by the scruff. No WONDER!

Still, I pulled on his collar, loved on him, pulled on it, loved on him, over and over for a while. He did stop growling at me, and while I didn't "move" him during this exercise, I was trying to demonstrate that "tugging" his scruff does not always equal medical testing/pain, but can in fact also equal happy times. I'm not sure he understood that, but he did stop growling.

This makes complete sense to me, you know? Now, it's just a matter of trying to recondition him. I think we can overcome this, especially now that I understand it (I think...can't be sure since he can't tell me...). He and I will be working on the reconditioning/deconditioning, and just add that to the range of things we do daily to get him used to being a dog as a pet...and not a dog as a medical supply.

And he's coming along...right now, he's chewing a bone, and really going to town on it. LOL...laying there, just going after the marrow in it, and totally enjoying himself. It's so neat to see the progress. Just so neat.

Best-
Herding Cats
 
Herding Cats said:
He did really well yesterday, I'm so proud of him, I can't even tell you.

I think I've begun to understand why he has leash issues. It's not the leash, per se, and it's probably not "neck trauma" (as another dog from this batch is suffering...). I think it has a lot more to do with him being brought out of his cage by the scruff of his neck.

This morning, I accidentally pulled on his scruff (I lost my balance when sitting down for lovies...thanks, Gracie!), and he growled at me, dug his claws into the concrete, and pulled back. I kinda sat there, thinking about it. He wasn't growling at me, exactly, but he was seriously protesting being moved by his neck. Quite clearly.

I thought it was interesting, and put myself in his place. If his experience has only been human hands reaching in, grabbing him by the scruff, and then taking him places that they did medical testing on him, well no wonder he has concerns and issues about being moved by the scruff. No WONDER!

Still, I pulled on his collar, loved on him, pulled on it, loved on him, over and over for a while. He did stop growling at me, and while I didn't "move" him during this exercise, I was trying to demonstrate that "tugging" his scruff does not always equal medical testing/pain, but can in fact also equal happy times. I'm not sure he understood that, but he did stop growling.

This makes complete sense to me, you know? Now, it's just a matter of trying to recondition him. I think we can overcome this, especially now that I understand it (I think...can't be sure since he can't tell me...). He and I will be working on the reconditioning/deconditioning, and just add that to the range of things we do daily to get him used to being a dog as a pet...and not a dog as a medical supply.

And he's coming along...right now, he's chewing a bone, and really going to town on it. LOL...laying there, just going after the marrow in it, and totally enjoying himself. It's so neat to see the progress. Just so neat.

Best-
Herding Cats
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That makes a lot of sense.
 
It does, doesn't it, Steely? I mean, when I think of what has happened to him, and how he must have been taken from his cage, I've got to think that this may be, if not the whole, at least part of the issues for him.

Now, I'm just hoping that things I've done with my other critters in terms of desensitizing/reconditioning will be effective with dogs. I don't have the experience with dogs that I do with horses and cats, and so am not too sure the experience translates into dog, kwim? But it's a start, I think, and gives me a direction to go in. It may be a dead end, but...well...I don't know that yet, you know?

We'll see how things go. Like I said, it's a start at least.

Best-
Herding Cats
 
Herding Cats said:
It does, doesn't it, Steely? I mean, when I think of what has happened to him, and how he must have been taken from his cage, I've got to think that this may be, if not the whole, at least part of the issues for him.

Now, I'm just hoping that things I've done with my other critters in terms of desensitizing/reconditioning will be effective with dogs. I don't have the experience with dogs that I do with horses and cats, and so am not too sure the experience translates into dog, kwim? But it's a start, I think, and gives me a direction to go in. It may be a dead end, but...well...I don't know that yet, you know?

We'll see how things go. Like I said, it's a start at least.

Best-
Herding Cats
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I think him seeing all of the other animals around and the way you treat them, especially Gracie, is a good thing for him.

Maybe, even Simon is good for him. (Did I really just type that?!) :doh:


To get him over the leash and collar thing I think you're on the right track. Offering positive reinforcement after gently tugging his collar is a good start. You might want to start tugging a little harder as you give reinforcement in case you need to pull him away from something someday quickly.

As for your gift with animals I should remind you that humans are animals too and you have a very good way with them also. I think your abilities with animals runs the entire spectrum. Anyone who can keep Simon civil while they're around has a truly deep seated gift. JMO
 
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