Constance Watching



Constance leg hugging



I will not apologise for sounding like a new parent. I sound like a new parent because I AM a new parent. Having a new animal in the house has always had the potential for trouble. Established pecking orders, attachments to human pack leader and house rules are often turned upside down not only by the arrival of a new dog, but more importantly by mistakes made by the humans of the household.

After looking after 6 dogs, I feel as though I am a bit of an expert at this "bedding in" lark!

and I know that there are several rules that have to followed when a new dog arrives

1. Routine is adhered to at all times.

2  favouritism to the newbe is not shown

3. ALL dogs are ignored from time to time to re enforce your own dominance

4  Feeding is done separately

5. Behaviour needs to be watched closely

Last night the dog pack here has fused nicely. Like I said in last night's blog the fact that all four dogs playfully stood at the door waiting for my arrival signified that they are now acting as one. I tested this by taking Constance out for a short walk on her own, so when we arrived back I watched the other dogs carefully and was pleased when dog leader William trotted over to sniff his welcome at Constance's nose and mouth. 

When separated, a pack will always "greet" each other when reunited even if the separation is brief, watching this ritual occur is always healthy moment !

As for Constance herself, she remains a lazy and benign presence at the cottage. Last night I watched her lumber over to Albert ( who had flattened out Chris' knitting to fashion himself a comfortable bed). With her little piggy eyes never leaving his face, she lent forward to give him one almighty "sniff" and as he sat his ground, she acquiesced to his confidence and collapsed in front of the fire ( cat now higher status than Bulldog!)

After meals she has started to become playful with William and a more mistrusting Meg which is another healthy sign , but for 90% of the day she remains a lumpy, snoring mass lying somewhere in a comfortable and warm corner.

Things have normalised


The pack awaiting their morning walk ( apologies for the scenic bin bag)