[SIZE=3]Harry is very much part of the family.....he acts as if he has always been here....he stands at my feet with the rest of the fur butts begging for a treat.....he races to the bedroom when its time for bed. Things are changing around here, but is was because I made a decision. I did more investigation about Harry's origin, and found out there was a middle man, and in fact, Harry came from a mill in Missouri, that had a whole investigative report done on it. I watched the video and felt sick to my stomach for days. Every time I looked at Harry, tears filled my eyes. Then one day, I read a message from a fellow YT member, who said dogs live in the minute, they don't think about the past. It was then I decided it was time to move forward. He went to a get together with other dogs and I let him down to get to know them and their owners. He relaxed in a few minutes....LOVED sniffing other butts, and even went and allowed himself to be held by other wonderful people. Now to the meat of the story. Since our attitudes have changed (mine more than Harry's) it was time to set down a few rules......the other furbutts know the rules....but Harry figured he was above all that because he was allowed to do what ever he wanted. He just had to give that what??? who me???? look, and all the rules went right out the window. Right now we are working on coming in the house from outside....Harry usually runs the other way. I put him on a leash yesterday to take him out, he HATED it. He whined, he jumped up wanting to be held, he wouldn't poop. This morning, we went out and I let him off leash. When I said, OK, lets go get a treat, and opened the door......he was the first one in the house. When I tell him to stay at the top of the stairs when I go down to do laundry, he stays and waits for me. He is so smart...he looks at me like "finally YOU are giving me a chance to be good" Sorry Harry......give me some time.....I'll learn, I promise[/SIZE]

TrevorForever

[SIZE=3]I finally was able to go pick up Harry's papers and immunization records from his previous owner. I found the environment very much the same, and I was soooo happy that Harry was no longer there. The thing about it was that on every piece of paper that had the breeders name on it, the last name was scratched out....except, she forgot the rabies certificate signed by the vet....so, I got home and did a google search on the name. I found her, and [B]ALL [/B]of her current listings...Boston Terrior, Pomeranian, Shih-tzu, Yorkie, Schorkie....the list is long. I got such a [B]PIT [/B]in my stomach. The internet where she lists the dogs says "they are all home spoiled" Hand raised, etc. I emailed her and asked if was OK with her if I called her to ask a few questions......I dont see how all these different breeds can be hand raised and pre spoiled....by gut is telling me its a mill, and maybe I dont want to know any more information, but then on the other hand, better to know ahead of time so I can be more aware of any problems that can arise...
My biggest saddness is for Harry. What has this poor little boy been through? He is adjusting so well here.....he knows he is well loved, but my heart is breaking for him and all of the others that are bred in mills, and the adults....I cant stand to think about it.....
I'm going to "buck"up and give this lady a call. Harry is MY JOY. I dont want him to be sick, get sick, have problems. He has been through too much already......Please Dear Lord, keep Harry safe.....and well....and happy. Help me to do my best for him, he deserves that.........[/SIZE]

TrevorForever

[SIZE=3][COLOR=Purple]Harry has been home with me for one week. In a way it seems like he has been here forever, he is one of the family. He knows the ins and outs of life here......he has adjusted so well. I've heard of some people being called öld souls" If dogs can be an old soul, Harry is one. In his eyes I can see so much for him being such a young guy. He is unassuming, he seems so happy just being Harry. I don't know what his life has been like up to this point, I don't think I want to know. I do know what I saw, how I felt, and putting human emotions and feelings on a dog, how he must have felt. Most of all, I think he just didn't understand what was wanted of him. Since he has been here, he is happy being Harry. No expectations really, he gets to eat if he is hungry, he sleeps if he's tired, he plays....(well hes learning to play)...and he is loved. He gets on my lap and cocks his head to look into my face, and what I feel is amazing.....like, heh thanks for caring about me. It is very much a give and take kind of relationship. While I give him security, he gives me a sense of joy.....joy of being who and what you are......thanks Harry!!! I love you:aimeeyork[/COLOR][/SIZE]

TrevorForever

[SIZE=3]I feed the dogs all at the same time, I think that makes them bond, and know their place in "the pack" Each of them have their own spot, their own plate, etc. Harry, the newest little guy is allowed to go from plate to plate. The others dont growl etc. If any of the other ones tried this, I think he would be put in his place. Harry takes one bite from everyone, then moves along......what does this mean? Is it because hes the baby, I really dont think he is alpha because if one of the other dogs looks at him side ways he runs away......just wondering and observing......:rolleyes:[/SIZE]

TrevorForever