A little while ago, we were able to spend the day with Sadie (a boxer) at the Durham APS Walk for the Animals where she was able to have a fun day playing with other dogs and meeting all of the wonderful people who attended. As one might expect, given a new place with new surroundings, it may be hard to focus on what your person may want from you, but Sadie performed wonderfully.
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| Smiley Sadie! |
Even though she is a bit older (around 8 years) she played well with dogs ranging from puppies to seniors in all shapes and sizes. She didn't meet a person she didn't like (or try to kiss!), and her happy demeanor and good manners made sure that nobody walked away from her unhappy.
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| Isn't she just the sweetest?! |
Last Sunday we were lucky enough to be able to spend more time with Sadie, and were able to walk around the trail and play in the playpen as she loves to do. On the leash, Sadie performs wonderfully as would be expected given her perfect behavior at a much busier venue. One of my favorite things to do with the dogs is to sit on the bench and see how much they want attention and affection, and I was not disappointed today with Sadie. She is very attentive to people, and loves to please.
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| Best friends! |
I was amazed when I held out a treat and Sadie sat down then gave me her paw! She clearly enjoyed showing off the things that she knew, and even though she is a bit older, I bet she would still love to learn new tricks!
Sadie likes her treats, and uses her most delicate touch when taking them.
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| I got tricks up my paw! |
Sadie, being a bit older, loves to play and walk, but gets tired after not too long. I would imagine she would do very well in a house that takes her on shorter daily walks. She has done remarkably well with any dog she has met while we have been with her (over 50). At the APS Walk, Sadie met numerous kids and did very well with them, keeping in mind that she is a larger dog and that she could inadvertently bump into small kids.
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| Sitting very patiently for her treat! |
At the playpen, Sadie starts to get excited knowing that she will get to play off leash. When she looks up at me in anticipation, I start to think that she really understands what I want and her goal is to make me as happy as I make her. I smile back at her when we reach the gate, and she sits and waits for me to un-clip her leash.
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| We call her Sadie-bug, which is short for Sadie Lovebug and she is a kisser! |
As I open the door, she goes bounding off, sniffing the grass that has changed smells significantly from when she last sniffed it. Not too long after, she comes running back over to check on me, wondering if it is time for a treat or to play. Her half-gallop, half bounce makes me laugh no matter what mood I start in.
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| Hopping around! |
As we walk Sadie back in, she stops by her sister June's kennel, who was surrendered to the shelter with her, and gives her a quick bark, and then walks me back to her kennel. During the time I have spent with Sadie, I could not imagine a family finding a more perfect dog that her. Her loyalty, sweet nature, and sunny personality will definitely rub off on you, and you can see for yourself by visiting her in kennel 36.
