From Scotland to Ireland. Riley Comes Home

[Nicky, Riley & Boris]

Forgive this post if it has the hallmarks of a rambling oddball but I'm putting it down to happy exhaustion.  I crept out during partner snore pauses)  of the cottage at 2.30 am to make the 7 am sailing from Northern Ireland  which is a three and a half hour drive from home.  The sailing was calm and I slept for a half hour.  Then I drove and drove and drove, through Glasgow and Edinburgh and high up to the north of Scotland very near the Famous St Andrews Golf Course.   I poured a whole bottle of water into my lap at one stage so had to drive with wet pants!  My phone died so I had no phone and just a memory of the instructions as to which village to go to and which lane to turn down!  My memory didn't fail me and I arrived at the Breeders House at the foot of the mountains at 1pm.  It was a little overwhelming and when I finally picked Riley up in my arms all I could think of was thank goodness he is so good looking becasue I wasn't 100% sure from the pictures I had received. I met the Mum and Dad, both lovely dogs.  Four of Rileys brothers were there with him.  At first I didn't know which one he was!  I was so worried about the drive home that I refused a cup of coffee (my flask was in the car).  We had to put the soft top down to get the crate into the back seat and luckily it went back over with the crate firmly wedged.  I had brought puppy pads, wipes, plastic bags etc so I didn't need anything though I did take a bag of RIley's food though the breeder and her husband and son said he probably wouldn't eat anything (they were wrong!)

So, with puppy in the back of the car, I turned around to make the journey home.  It wasn't until I was out of sight of the house that I took time out to stop the car, take him out and give him a big cuddle.  He is a sweet and calm puppy who just loves cuddles.  The whole journey home was made easier because Riley didn't throw up and basically slept most of the way.  Even on the boat when I had to leave him in the car I asked the First Mate to go and check on him which he kindly did.  Fast asleep!  I stopped a few time and took him out in my arms.  We didn't get very far on each occasion before people were asking what kind of dog he was and admiring him.  The worst part of the journey was the last leg home.  The boat docked at 10.30pm and at 12.30 I thought I was going to fall asleep at the wheel so I pulled over into a car park and got out for a short walk.  I seriously debated at that point to sleep in the car but I got a second wind and was home an hour later.  I had phoned my partner during the day to tell him where I was and he said " you mad woman! just get home safe."  He was waiting and his reaction to Riley is absolutely wonderful. I know he loves dogs, I know he wanted one but I wasn't prepared for my macho man to be so moved. He keeps saying it feels like having a baby!!! and that he is really looking forward to getting all the children over to introduce Riley to them. He says he is going to get up early in the mornings and take Riley for the first walk of the day as soon as he's old enough.  He keeps saying thank you for the best present he ever got.

So far Riley knows 'Sit' and Leave, I started with the clicker and he's learning very fast.  Rule number one is 'Nothing In Life is Free' and 2. He gets no attention unless 4 feet are on the ground.  He cried for a few minutes when we finally went to bed at three am!!! but settled and we had to wake him up at 9.30 this morning.  

 

I just want to say a big thank you to all my friends here and those of you who have supported me on this journey. It was your encouragement and positivity that kept me going.  I clocked 800 miles driving in 23 hours, arrived home safe and it was all worth it.  I couldn't have done it without you all.

[F, Calla & Luca]

What an adventure but the most adorable Riley was clearly worth it. It sounds like you are starting out on the right foot with the training and that Riley is a very good pup. I just saw some puppy pictures of Luca but I can hardly believe he was ever like that! Take lots of pictures and post them too. Enjoy!

[Carol and Banjo]

Hi Nicky and Riley!   I'm so thrilled for you and your adventures to come.    There's something wonderful about these puppies and their ability to turn even the most macho man into a mushball!    I'm still amazed at what an old "softie" DH has become with Banjo, I swear he worries more about him than  I do!     You'll be running ragged for a little while but we know you'll enjoy every second of it!   Congrats to you!!!    Loved your blog   : )

[Jane, Rooney & Stuart]

Nicky - we are so happy for you that the trip went well and you arrived home safe and sound.  We were all wondering how you were doing.  Riley is a total cutie pie - now rest up and enjoy that little guy.  He won't stay little for long!!

[Nicole]

What a gorgeous puppy and touching story! He will bring such pleasure to your lives :)

[Elizabeth & Cosmo]

What a beautiful puppy! Congratulations!

And thank you for sharing your happy story. It brought tears to my eyes!

[Phoebe's Mom]

What a love.  So happy to read you made the journey safely and that all is well.  Enjoy him!  I look forward to reading about your exploits as he grows up.

[AndySharon BoomerShaynaMariner]

He is a beautiful boy!!!  Congratulations !!!

[Janel and Sophia]

Congratulations..  He is so very very cute...

[Pat and Traveler]

What a journey!!  I felt I was right there with you--thank you for giving us the details we've been waiting for!  Riley is gorgeous!  That really is a marvelous present, and it's great to hear how happy you've made your partner.  Have fun this this little beauty. 

[Sharon & Monty]

I have goosebumps!  Awesome, congratulations Mum!