[Mackenzie’s Admin]

1/16/09 – Dutchess’ 1st Week at Home

Mom said that “if you have to have a dog, Dutchess is the one to have!” Overall things have gone well this first week, and Dutchess has been a complete sweetheart. The only issue they’ve had is with Separation Anxiety, but they’re working on it. Dutchess did well with the crate the first night, but as she became more attached to Mom, she didn’t want to be left alone. She started chewing on the wire crate & bending it, so Mom tried gating her to the side hallway & mud-room area instead since it was a more open space. Then Dutchess started frantically pawing at the woodwork because she was so worked up. So Mom tried giving her run of the house, and Dutchess has actually done fine, and hasn’t been destructive. She does end up lying on the couch, but now Mom said that’s fine & it doesn’t bother her – Dutchess really is a very good girl.

They went to the Vet yesterday, and the Vet found evidence of her teeth being very worn down, from what could have possibly been long-term chewing in the past, possibly in attempts to escape from a wire crate or other confined space. With Dutchess’ prior history of neglect, this scenario could have been possible, and would explain her anxiety about being crated or left alone. Mom is understanding, and willing to work with her on this. Mom says it’s very clear she had been neglected, as she always wants to be with you, and yearns so much for attention and affection as often as she can get it.

Otherwise there have been no potty accidents in the house, and Dutchess has been very well-behaved. Mom makes sure Dutchess get lots of exercise to keep her happy, so they go for walks several times a day. On their walks, there isn’t a person she meets that she doesn’t like!! She is SUCH a sweetheart to everyone. When she sees another dog she gets all worked up, but with people she’s great.

Mom said that she’s so glad she decided to adopt an adult dog at this point in her life, because it’s been so much easier than a puppy. They are glad to have Dutchess as part of the family.

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