My Mom, Hope Sisitsky, thought she needed to get ME in shape for hiking this spring. Once you watch the video, and hear my Mom's voice, you'll see that it's SHE who needs to get in shape! I'm ready!
Mom says she's very proud of my nice manners with Maggie. Maggie lives in my neighborhood, and Mom and I walk by her house a lot. I really like Maggie and want to play with her, but she doesn't feel the same way about me. I used to be a big pest to dogs like Maggie, bopping around them, barking at them...you know, trying to get them to play with me! They would often get annoyed and show their teeth to me. I have learned to read the body language of other dogs and give them space if they need it. I'm working on my impulse control, too, and know that some friends are for playing and some friends are for just hanging out. ❤️
I played with a new friend named Gracie yesterday. Mom was happy about a few things:
1. I didn't guard the rope toy that I saw in Gracie's yard. A few months ago, I would have claimed that toy as my own and snapped at Gracie if she was near it.
2. I realized that Gracie was a little uneasy about some of our play. She showed her teeth and was whining, although I didn't hear that. I rolled around in front of Gracie, showing her my belly to let her know that I was playing and didn't want to hurt her.
3. I gave Gracie space. When Gracie needed a break, she moved away from me to lay down. I did not pounce on her or stand over her. Instead, I stood in front of her and did my little play moves to invite her to play some more. When she didn't get up, I gave her a little nose kiss, and moved away.
Mom was very proud of me! She told me I am growing up and learning about impulse control and how to read the body language of dogs I meet.
Hooray!
White pitbull + rolling in grass = Mooshi with grass stains
I haven't seen my brother, Ari Cogen in 7 months because he lives in Los Angeles. He arrived at 1:30 in the morning. I was so excited to see him!
(Sound up)
One benefit of being deaf is the loud, scary sounds of the workman's tools don't bother me at all!
This is what I sound like when I'm bored and want Mom's attention:
Deaf dogs sleep very deeply!
Mooshi and I are participating in High Hopes Dog Training Intermediate Obedience & Problem-Solving class on Saturdays. This is us practicing PLACE with distance. He's a rock star!
--Hope
Remember all of those cold, rainy days we had? Well, I finally got to play with my friend, Winston, once the rain stopped. (This was last week.) We were so excited to see each other, Mom could barely get my harness and collar off and open the gate!
Happy New Year from me and Mom! We look forward to sharing our 2023 adventures with you!
Before something goes into the recycling can, Mom uses it to make a little activity for me.
