A Dood's reflections on the 1st year with her human!

[Christine & Shelby]

Hi Doods.... Shelby here!   It's been a crazy few weeks at my house since my mom had back surgery.  She still has a way to go, but is getting better every day.  However, this recovery process has really gotten in the way of my blogging - so I had to take time tonight and blog.... because - I've got a lot to share!

Yesterday... my mom (human mom) told me it was our doodleversary.  What is a doodleversary you might be asking... I wondered the same thing.  It means it was the day she picked me up and brought me home... to OUR home!  This caused my mom to reflect a lot on the last year... and then I got to thinking and thought I would share my reflections and memories with you!

I remember that first day... because it started with a long car ride in what I learned was my "crate".  I was scared at first, but then fell asleep.  When I woke up - my new human mom took me to a big grassy area with a really tall fence and put me down.  I was thinking... thank goodness, I need to go potty... and when I did - she got really excited and gave me lots of petting, hugs and kisses!  We played in the backyard with the friends who made the drive with my mom.  I ran from person to person and then... I was tired.  We went inside and my mom held me while I slept.  It was nice to be held, I was a bit unsure because everything was new.  I also got to study and learn her smell.... and we got to bond!  The first week I was home, my mom and I bonded a lot... and we both learned a lot - from each other.   I taught my mom what "I have to go potty" looks like and my mom taught me that pottying in the house was not ok.

Here are some other fun memories and lessons learned:

- Socialization is fun... don't be afraid.  My mom had people over everyday the first month so I met lots of people.  She also socialized me with her friends dogs (who were healthy and up to date on their shots).  This helped me become the social butterfly I am today!   Doods - pay it forward and help with another dogs socialization.... it's a good thing!

- Learning to potty outside isn't that hard!  I only had 3 or 4 accidents in the house (and my mom, to this day, says they are all her fault for not recognizing the signs).

- The veteranarian (doctor) isn't a scary person.  I had to go to the doctor several times in the first 4 months at home.  I love my doctor she is super nice and is gentle.  Believe it or not, it is good for you!

- The crate isn't a bad place.  I found that I really liked being in my crate, it made me feel safe when I was by myself and mom was at work.

- Chewing the furniture is bad.  I made a mistake or two and mom wasn't happy.  Try your very best to chew only on the toys and bones....

- School is awesome!  Mom enrolled me in puppy kindergarten for training.  I learned lots of new stuff and mom learned along with me.  Now I know what to do when mom asks!   We took another class after kindergarten called the AKC Star Puppy Class... I got a medal and a certificate when I passed the test!

- If you behave... you get more privileges like not having to be crated at night, getting house freedom during the day and maybe even furniture privileges.

- Walks are fun and a great time to bond with your humans.  The leash can be annoying, but it's necessary to keep us safe from cars, trucks, etc.   I love going on walks with my mom!

- There will be days when your human(s) may be sick.   Be extra good these days and stick close by them.  I remember the first time my mom got sick.  I was only 4 months old, but I knew something was wrong - I just slept by her for the three days she didn't feel good.  She said I was a good girl... I thought to myself, I am just doing my job... watching out for my mom.

- Car rides are fun!   When I was a little pup I got sick once or twice in the car, but now - I am a pro!  My mom takes me lots of places in the car.  Sometimes to go somewhere... and sometimes just to run an errand.  Like this morning - we went to the pharmacy so mom could get some medicine.  We went through the drive thru and I got a treat!   This happens a lot - lot's of doggy friendly drive thru's and stores where I live!

- I've learned I am a good alert dog.  I let my mom know when something is wrong or someone is coming near the house.  Mom likes that I do this... it makes her feel safe!

- I've made lots of doggie friends (both doodles and non-doodles) and my mom schedules play dates for us. 

- Doggie play care is fun!  I love meeting so many other dogs and playing all day.  When I get home, I am tired!

- I have learned that my mom loves me... no matter what... even when I've done something naughty.

- Snuggle up with your humans... they love it and nothing feels better than the soft petting and belly rubs they give!

- Recently with my birthday and Christmas I have learned that I love to unwrap presents.... here is a photo after the unwrapping is complete!

There is so much more I could share, but I am sure this blog post is getting LONG!  I hope you all show your humans today how much you love them for all they do for you!   Have a great day everyone.... I am already looking forward to my 2nd doodleversary with my mom!  

[Suzann, Rosey & Bandit]

Happy Doodleversary Shelby and Christine!! I am glad you are up to blogging again, I was thinking of you today and hoping your recovery was going well!!

[Donna K & Quincy]

Hi Shelby, it's good to hear from you again. I am happy to hear that your mom is feeling better and recovering from her surgery. It's fun to hear about your first year at home and for only one year old you are a very wise doodle. Happy Doodleversary to you. Unwrapping presents is so much fun isn't it, sometimes more fun than what is inside. 

[Dori & Rua]

Happy Doodleversary Shelby!  That was an awesome year in reflection.  I am going to make sure I share that with Rua so she can think back on that wonderful day she came to her forever home.  Keep taking good care of your mom!