Hannah: Early Fostering Days

When a foster Airedale comes to stay nearly everything is an unknown.  Does she (or he) growl, bark, bite?  Steal food?  Counter surf?  Outside, does she jump fences to run away or stay close to hand?  Does she like and get along with other animals, especially cats?  What about children?  We try to learn as much as we can.

On May 12, 2008, the day after Hannah came,  we took her outside on a long line for some playtime to see how she would do.  I hoped she would not try to run away but we didn't want to take any chances. 

We were grateful she stayed close, interested in being with us.

I think her expression suggests worry, concern, apprehension -- all of which were the case with her during her first days with us. 

She was such a skinny girl, long, tall, and leggy, at only about 50 pounds.

She was interested in the ball and saw play potential.

I love the partial play-bow.

We learned that Hannah wasn't interested in jumping the fence or running away that day and that she was interested in playing.

How I wish I could turn the clock back ten years.

--Nancy.
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