Annie Oakley, New Pics 11-16-09 - Page 2

She is such a joy, she has brought us all some simple pleasure just watching her grow up into a big girl... This little blind pup has touched us all.

Thanks, all of you.  Yes, she's got courage.  If something startles her, she investigates it, rather than shivering in terror.  I've always helped her to face the unknowns of life, because I didn't want her to be frightened.  I never give attention when she's acting uncertain, but I always praise her for checking things out and doing things.  It's been an amazing few months, watching her grow and mature. 

The funny thing is that when most people see her, they don't think she's blind at all.  When she meets new people, she's friendly, but aloof, until she's checked them out.  She still gets just a little pushy with the kids, nose in the face and all that, but I've been working with them to correct her the same way I do, and she's getting better at respecting their space.  She's just easy to deal with most of the time.

The only time Oakley get a bit funny about things is if another dog comes up and surprises her by barking at her, especially if it growls, like when we're out for a walk..  She backs away, barking and carrying on, but not really in fear.  It's more a bit of uncertainty, because as soon as the other dog settles down, so does she.  But since she can't see the threat, she barks at it.

Thanks again, all of you, and I'll add some more pictures as I can.

Crys

Thanks for the kind words, Bob...She's touched a lot of people's hearts, and for that, for the fact that she is alive today and happy, I thank God.

I am truly touched by this!! I think you have done a tremendous job with her. I also agree with you not babying her in new situations. Are you familiar with Cesar Millan , The dog whisperer ? I think he would agree with the way you are handling her. She really is a looker!! Continued sucess and happiness.

Yes, I agree with Bob To see the brave little girl grow up into a little Lady is priceless, and a better home she could not be in
Steve1

I am so glad she is doing well :)   It was meant to be

Thanks again, for all of the kind words from everyone.

Peanut, I am very familiar with Cesar Millan and his approach to dogs, which is what I am using.  It's working well.  She's adjusted to everything I have asked of her.  I couldn't be happier with how she's doing, although I do wish I had a little more time to work on formal obedience, but that will come in time.  She picks up what I ask of her pretty fast, and the stays are the most important, I think, which she's pretty good at.

Crys

You have done such a wonderful job with her! She is turning into a beautiful dog. She does seem very confident,happy and well loved. The foot bridge photo is gorgeous. I want to hang it over my fireplace LOL.... I can imagine it with a little Kinkade-style cabin in the backgound, softly glowing and peaceful *sigh* I want to live there :-) Nice pictures, thanks for sharing
Stacy

You are truly a good person to take care of this gal.  You have restored a little of my faith in humans.  The world needs more like you.  With all the dogs I see being peddled just on this website alone, you can only pray they end up with a good person like you.  Keep her and your other animals safe and loved.

Here's another picture for you...




Tomorrow I'll post another one I took at the same time, with her mouth not open, but this one is too precious!  Also, it give you an idea of how big she's ended up to be.  She's not huge, but she's not small, either.  Just right for me, I think.  She's really something.

Lastly, Can you guess what time it is, by her actions? 

Crys

Crys,I dont really know the whole story other than what I can read between the lines and I just wanted to take a moment to say THANK YOU for being the person you obviously are in taking this wonderfull little girly girl and giving her a chance at life.Some of the horror stories that involve this wonderfull GSD of ours sometimes make me really wonder about human beings and then comes someone like you to even up the playing field.I am overwhelmed this morning and gratefull that I decided to log on the PDB today.Crys,please dont ever change the person that you are because this kind act will for sure come back on you.All the best to you and that great girly girl.Good lucl ALWAYS