I have learned so many things about dogs since I adopted Alvin back in January of this year. Alvin and I started our daily walks back in February. Initially, I had to wait to take him out into the neighbourhood. He was on medication, and did not have his shots, and was not neutered. So once he had his shots and stuff we were able to get out of the house. Most of our walks consisted of Alvin pulling me along to where he wanted to go. He loves to sniff everything that he sees. I am pretty patient for the most part so I let him lead the way. The leash that I was using would extend when he pulled on it (unless I had it in the lock position). When he got ahead of me, Alvin would sometimes get something off the ground and eat it. Yuck. I mean, really. LOL.
One night last week my daughter and son-in-law and “puppies” came over for supper. After supper, (as it was a beautiful evening) I decided that Alvin and I would walk them home as we had not been out that day. (Most days we go for two walks). As we were walking along my son-in-law noted that our walk would be much more enjoyable if “I did the leading” and for that I would require a different kind of leash. Steven said “we have an extra one that you can borrow.” I also received a lesson in dog walking (which I desperately needed). Yes, you might wonder why I would have waited this long to do this ….. well as with anything …. time goes by and you just sometimes keep doing what you are doing until one day the LIGHT BULB comes on, and that’s when you make changes. I was pleasantly surprised when Steven was walking him how well he responded. Note: Steven has taken him for walks before and he, Alvin listened to him. Must be the “male” thing. LOL.
When we got to their house, Steven grabbed the new leash for Alvin. Guess what it was RED. I think red is a great colour. Powerful and strong. I felt powerful and strong. Maybe now I could become the LEADER OF THE PACK, vroom vroom…… (remember that song from like the late 60’s – early 70’s). I thanked my kids for the new leash and we were on our way. Alvin did so well. Our walk home was much more enjoyable. Actually felt like we got a work out.
So that is my story about Alvin and the “red leash”.
Always, Carol
P.S. our walks since that night have been great. I am leading the way and he is walking right beside me or a bit behind. It was a great lesson for me to learn. I am most grateful to Steven and Amanda for all of their help with Alvin. They are the best daughter and son-in-law that a Mom could ever ask for ……. 🙂
My New Life @ 51 