03/16/2017
Here is a message I received today from a new puppy owner.
I realize that Zorro and I have not been together very long, but I couldn’t wait any longer to write to you with an update. In short, I realize that I’m biased, but he’s absolutely wonderful. If anyone had tried to describe him to me ahead of time, there’s no way I would have understood. Little Zorro is amazing and I’m thrilled to have him.
Zorro is friendly and inquisitive, but he is also gentle and sweet. Sometimes I’m not sure whether I adopted a dog or a teddy bear. So far he has shown none of the destructive or problematic behaviours which are often associated with puppies. Zorro is very eager to please; he has a lovely personality and we are getting to know each other better every day. What seems clear to me is that, more than anything else, he just wants to be with his person. I can’t tell you how honoured I am to see his tail wagging when we first see each other every morning. It seems like his way of saying how happy he is to see me, and I’m at least as happy to see him, too.
This evening Zorro attended his first dinner party and he was just as good as gold (actually, better than gold). He didn’t even think to ask for any “people food”; he just stayed with me calmly and observed quietly until he was interacted with. He met two very young children and he was beyond gentle with them. Everyone was smitten and totally impressed.
Considering that Zorro has only been with me for a short time I believe that many of these lessons have come from you. Even beyond good manners, I have also noticed that Zorro is very accustomed to having people around and to noises such as the vacuum cleaner, hair dryer, etc. He is used to being handled and touched and he communicates very well. I expect that you made a point of exposing him to various experiences from a young age. Even fireworks (heard in the distance) didn’t phase him the other night, though they were certainly audible from home.
Zorro is adjusting incredibly well to his new home. Everyone falls in love with him at first sight and for good reason. They can’t quite get over how calm, gentle and well adjusted he is. Neither can I!
I’m attaching a few photos to this message but I’ll be sure to keep in touch. I just wanted you to know how well Zorro is doing, especially since the first few days are so key in a puppy’s adjustment to a new living situation. Thank you for your part in making all of this possible.