I is for INTRODUCING...

Round 12 and we're already at the letter I...implausible, wouldn't you say? I know I've already introduced you to my new puppy Tegan, but let me tell you about her introduction to the stairs, shoes, movies, going for walks, training, puddles and especially to the local dog park.

The first time at the dog park was very exciting for all of us.  There are trails around this particular dog park that run along one of the river's tributaries and it's also right at one of the local marinas.  With the feel of an island, we've strolled this area often, taking photos and commenting on how incredible it'd be to bring our own puppy to play here.  Upon arrival, I noticed a group of people with dogs gathered in the interior of the park.  As I approached with Tegan on her leash, I asked if there was a class in session.  "Oh, no!" someone said.  "We're just chatting!"  So off the leash she went and very politely, (i.e. sniffing a few butts) she introduced herself. It's funny how some dogs act like idiots or imbeciles while others are very intelligent with interesting personalities.  I guess they're a lot like humans!  Tegan says she'd like to give a shout-out to Tuna and Buddy, two of her new best friends!  So far, she's only met one small breed dog who has not been at all friendly, and Tegan found it inconceivable that this dog didn't like her.

Tegan is growing like a weed and it seems every morning when I let her out of her bed, she's bigger.  When we brought her home, she weighed 13 lbs and now she's just shy of 26 lbs!  The vet tells us she's very healthy and increasing in size at the proper rate.  Up to now, she's also been very good on the leash; however, lately she's started to pull me a bit.  So it's time for formal puppy classes to teach her to heel.  I can't have her pulling me with my bad back.  Hopefully, she will obey since she's very smart and will already "sit," "stay," "shake hands," and "bring it back" on command.  There are times, though, when she acts quite impish.

I've illustrated for you how much fun Tegan's been having with the inevitable slideshow. Hope you enjoy it.  Also, incalculable thanks to the indomitable Mrs. Nesbitt, the creator of ABC Wednesday, and to the indescribable Roger, our administrator.