Meet Izzy

It has now been a week since Izzie joined our "quiet", "simple" household.  She is adapting quite well to her new environment.  Outside of standing on any chair that is pulled away from a table, jumping up on every counter, taking an apple pie from the back of a kitchen counter, rivaling Oceans of Fun every time she gets a drink of water, removing every toy in the house to the center of the family room, bringing different objects, (i.e. remote controls from table tops, stuffed animals from beds and dressers, shoes, etc.) to us for approval, and generally being a very large puppy, both Donna and myself would have to say she is quite enjoyable.  

We were a little concerned about putting 2 alpha dogs and an alpha bird together, but everyone is now getting along.  

I have found the best way to brush Izzie is to give her plenty of toys.  Let her pick one and when she is playing with that one from my left hand, I can brush her with my right.  It's still a little tricky to get her to move or turn so I can do the opposite side, but we are working on it.   

With Izzie's size and strength, Donna has put her foot down about training.  It boils down to, "Ted, I love you, you like big dogs, if you want me to keep loving you, train her, especially on a leash, like you did with your other dogs!"  I can see my work is cut out for me.  

Today, Izzie and I went to our local vet for her heartworm test (which was due).  Everything came out very well and she is to start her program immediately.  I also had her chipped.  She was great in the office.  To help out, she stood on the table...And by standing on the table, I mean her back legs were on the floor and her front paws were on the table.  As she looked at the doctor, at eye level, blood was drawn and the chip was inserted.  She is now a very "chipper" family member.  

As I am writing this, I am at my office.  Izzie is laying on the floor next to me.  She has been coming in every day and learning more about people.  She does like to lean against people, but only adults.  When children are near, she just stands there and waits for them to hug her.

I have found that Izzie loves to take car rides.  Whenever she hears keys, no matter where she is in the house, she makes a bee-line to the door, blocking any form of exit, just so she can go outside to the car, jump in "her spot" and enjoy the scenery. 

It is going to take some time, but Izzie is going to be not only an outstanding pet, but a very loved and cared for family member.  Both Donna and I want to thank HANC, Mary Price, Jocelyn and Gary for all you have done.