My First Time in Lancaster City: I'm Not a City Dog (Yet!)

Even though we live in the Lancaster area, we do not go into the city. There is nothing in the city that I cannot buy outside of the city with free parking. The only resource in the city that I use are the Lancaster General Health resources (doctors and emergency department).

Knowing Thornwald needed to visit a city, I decided that a day in Lancaster would be perfect! I had it all planned. I was going to take him to Central Market, the Lancaster Art Museum, the Library, City Hall, and a few stores. My plan was to get him used to walking around busy streets with new sounds and to visit places that he might visit with a handler. I had him walk over new textures and go to places with new smells.

Our first stop was Rite Aid, and even though he has visited numerous Rite Aids before, he was distraught over how crowded it was in this store. We then continued to visit Central Market. He did not do too badly at the market, but I did not want to keep him there too long because he was having a lot of difficulty keeping focused with all the food smells. I wanted him to leave successful! We practiced stopping at crosswalks and when there was a lot of traffic sounds, I made sure to give him treats to help calm him and associate the sounds with a positive vibe. I was even able to get him to sit and pose on a sewer grate! \

Unfortunately, for young Thornwald, the experience was overwhelming.  Most of our time was spent walking, but when we made it to the Library, he freaked out and started to jump on me and bite my legs. I took him out of the Library and he calmed down. I am not sure what element about the trip freaked him out, but for now, I will be slowly introducing him to the different smells and sounds of the city. Hopefully, we will be able to visit a city for more than an hour before he gets stressed.

Visiting the Family: Sara is Home

 

Esther finally had a day off so we headed up north to visit my human family! They don't quite understand dogs and the cat doesn't like me, but Esther's Mom always makes me stuff! She made me this new bed that I can't destroy and is also comfortable! The first night was scary with thunder and lightening. I heard there was hail, but either way, it was scary! I was so glad that Esther was so close by, but I'd forget and start barking and she'd have to remind me. 

The next day, we spent most of the morning at home, but we did take time to go vote! I wanted to vote, but dogs can't vote so I opted for a pro-voting picture instead! 

Next, we were off to the grocery store! It was rather boring and I started getting fussy so Esther and I went outside to explore. We started by waiting for horses. None showed up. I was disappointed. I wanted to meet a horse. We even found a pay phone.

After shopping, I was ready for a nap, but everyone else insisted we needed to look at cars! How many cars does this family go through in a year? The first stop, I walked around and looked at cars, but I soon realized that I know nothing about cars! Esther and I snuggled in the back of her fiat instead. Finally, it was time for dinner... Not for me. :( I was quite bored, but I did try staying under the table. It's just so difficult! 

The waitress gave me some ice and a after the meal, Esther and I went outside to look around. 

And don't you wish you were this cool? 

That night was less scary. I didn't feel too scared in my crate. Esther was right there beside me. 

Fast forward two days:

I met Mikey! He's pretty awesome! I hope I get to see him again soon! 

Esther has today and tomorrow off so who knows what we will do! I know it will be fun! 

Everyone Loves a Puppy: Taking a Puppy Into Public

When I first started taking Waldo into public, I was worried about how he would react to new situations and sounds, but now, it's the people around me that bother me more. I have found that most people are curious and supportive of him and even though he always draws attention to us, that doesn't really bother me. (I had a bright red pixie cut for a while. People stared at me more then.) For me, I try to take Waldo out on most of my errands, but there are many problems that can happen even when you legally can bring a dog with you... Or some interesting situations. 

1. People can't keep their hands off of him!

I might be walking or standing still in a store and people will B-line to him. Or even worse, they will call to him. If you ask, he can say hello, but stop grabbing him. I assume the harness makes people feel at ease, but it's inappropriate and is sometimes painful for the person with the leash! 

2. Everyone talks about you

It doesn't matter where you are, every person is talking about you. I try to imagine that they are discussing the importance of service animals or something similar, but it's usually about how cute he is or how big his feet are... I get it. He's going to be huge. 

3. You will hear about every lab they've ever known. 

Labs are great. Can I buy my milk?

4. People Will Look at You as an Imposter

I've felt offended in two different situations. The first was in Panera when this manager had to deal with a customer who complained. She asked and I explained and she was fine with it. The couple, who were sitting near me, complained and made her take out her manual. The second time was at a Perkins. The very moment I walked into the door, the manager demanded paperwork. He then continued to glare at me. It was unprofessional and awkward. I had my friend pay and I took waldo outside after we ate. 

5. Children Love Puppies and You'll Hear All About It

And they will beg to play with him. And scream.

6. Stereotypical Tough Men Also Love Puppies and They Will Want to Pet Your Puppy

And they melt over them. It's endearing.

7. People Will Remember You

This is similar to when I had red hair. People just remember you wherever you go. And they also comment on how big he has gotten. He's going to be a big dog. I get it. 

8. If A Person Knows Anyone With a Service/Guide Dog, They Will Tell You About It. 

And they all know someone. Time I will never get back. "Sir, I have somewhere to go and I don't know you or your half-sister's father-in-law's best friend's step-son nor do I want to know his life story."

9. Do you get paid for this? Everyone seems to need know this and are shocked by the answer. 

I get paid in slobbery puppy kisses. 

10. How Are You Going to Be Able to Give Him Up? I Wouldn't Be Able To...

Good thing you aren't going to...

And finally, 

THROW YOUR CIGARETTE BUTTS IN THE GARBAGE SO I DO NOT HAVE TO WORRY ABOUT WALDO EATING THEM.