Meeting Willow at Ikea

How often do you meet a live Airedale at a store?  In my experience, not often, but while my daughter and I were wandering through Ikea the other day we were surprised to see a furry, black and tan Airedale.

She was wearing a halter with "In Training" on the side so, before petting her, I asked if we could greet her.  Her owners hesitated just a second then said yes.  I told them that we had an Airedale, Hannah, at home.  I asked if I could take some photos and they said sure, but when I pulled out the camera, I realized that Willow and Hannah have in common a dislike of being photographed.  Willow turned her head for most every photo.

We learned that her name is Willow and that she was a breeder rescue when she was about 8 weeks old.  The breeder found that Willow's mother, one of his dogs, had been bred and was tied outside along with four puppies.  Willow's owner said the breeder took the dogs back and found homes for them.

Willow and Hannah sounded so much alike when they first arrived at home:  fearful of everything and lack of knowledge of so much that most puppies learn early in their lives.  Willow's owners have been working with her since she came to them nearly three years ago to help her become a well-adjusted Airedale and become a Canine Good Citizen.

Visiting Ikea was part of her training.  She was such an obedient girl and seemed unruffled by anything.  Her owner said that she'd learned how to give hugs:  kneel down and pat your shoulder.  How sweet to receive a hug from Willow.

We all agreed that Airedales are the very best dogs in the world!

--Nancy.