It's that time of year when Cat and Alfie start chasing other waterfowl out of the cut. I'd seen Alfie on the swantoon moving things around, so I knew now was the time to get in with some much needed home improvements.
Sadly I've had to increase the screen, as local yobs like to use the nesting swans as target practice. Although my boating community nearby, do thier best to see off any miscreants, we can't be there 24/7. Hopefully the screen will do it's job.
I only go onto the swantoon (to work) when the swans are away looking for food. They did come back early one day, so I had to leave the work unfinished rather than disturb them. I was also really lucky to have Jamie's help with improving the ramp for access.
A bale of straw and some extra twigs, has given Alfie his building materials and he is busy putting things as he wants them. If I hadn't provided straw he would build with rubbish found in the river. Last year there was so much plastic and string in the nest, that it was a hazard to the cygnets. Anyhoo it's all done for this year and I'm very aware that this is their space now. Now we wait for eggs, followed by little floofy cygnets ❤️
A quick update on where we are with Harley.
We are down in the reed beds looking for spring grass!
Today Harley got to meet some highland cattle and lots of people who wanted to say hi to him. He is doing a grand job of being an ambassador for disabled dogs. Everyone comments on how happy he is and he loves the attention, so its a win win.
Daisy has been providing my Turkish foster with valuable physiotherapy and hydrotherapy. Harley loves his sessions with this special lady. Harley will never fully recover from his awful spinal injury, but he is going to be a stronger and more mobile boy because of her talent and kindness. Thank you Daisy, you are very special to us ❤️
It's not often that you hear of anyone wearing boots in good weather, but that is what Harley is having to do.
With the coming of spring Harley has spent more time out on the rear deck. He loves watching things on the water and has a love/hate relationship with the swans. But the anti slip surface has caused a small graze on his right back leg, on his dew claw, so on go the boots, much to his disgust.
Sorry matey, but it's for your own good, and much less restricting and sweaty than wearing a drag bag!
It's been a long day for me. And now sat with the crew, I love seeing how Ember and Bob look after each other. This is why I always have two dogs or more. They are pack animals and need the company of their own kind. Just like people need friendships and the support that brings to be happy, so do dogs.
A little bit of play with Bob this morning. Bob then says No and Harley responds first time! Up to this point, Bob has had to give Harley several warnings. In the past I've had to intervene, if Harley is getting carried away. But today another little milestone has been reached for Harley. This pup is learning manners from the master!
Harleys hydrotherapy and physio at home is starting to improve the use of his back legs. They will never be perfect, but any improvement is a win as far as I'm concerned!
Tonight he swam a short distance without support. His back legs stayed in a good position and Daisy said he is very balanced in the water. And to think the vets in Turkey wanted to amputate his back legs. I'm so glad Isabel said no. This is one little warrior we have onboard Barge Yaffle. ❤️
Nearly an hour of playing chase and Harley and Huxlee are still at it!
I have a new cabin mate. After blitzing the guest cabin yesterday, I thought I'd try out a crate move . Our first night together was a peaceful one.
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