Day Four : Do as I say, Not as I Do

I am probably the worst doggie foster parent in the world.  You see, when you agree to foster, you are given this very handy document of instructions. 

{paraphrase}

1. If the dog is coming from a shelter, you should keep in mind that he may be contagious, so it is wise to place the crate in a position where your own dogs cannot stick there noses in – perhaps another room, at least until you have had a chance to get the dog cleared by a vet. (If your own dogs are fully vaccinated and healthy, there is very little risk, but do not take unnecessary chances. 

2. DO NOT allow the dog to move around without a leash or long line for at least the first couple of days.   

...and so on and so on. It's an excellent guide ;) 


Things that must NOT occur during decompression

• Meeting people outside the foster family 
• Meeting other dogs or other animals 
• Taking the dog to unknown environments (Petsmart, Parks etc)
• Taking the dog for walks outside the established safe environment of your back yard
• Activities that require extensive handling of the dog, like grooming 
• Unnecessary trips in the car
• Long period of time petting and touching the dog 
• Demanding obedience commands such as “Sit”, “Stay,” “Down,” 
• Being allowed to wander in the yard unleashed or unattended 
• Being allowed to wander within the house from room to room 

I think I have broken every rule.

1. I should have never "introduced" the world to Olive until after she had a vet visit & clear health.

2. I should not have introduced her to my animals & the neighbor's dog.

3. I should have never started obedience commands like sit & come.

4. I allow her to wander the backyard with minimal supervision (my backdoor is open).

5. I allow her to wander the house (when I am home & with her).

I could go on and on.

My point. She has done BEAUTIFULLY in spite of all my short comings. She is adapting, she is learning to trust & she is slowly relaxing.

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Today's progress of Olive, my first IDOG foster dog & the sweetest foster dog ever. Please consider adopting this baby.

1. A clean bill of health from the vet!!!! Negative heart worm, fecal, ear mites etc. (but she does have 2 ear infections that I am treating).

2. This is happening. Yes, her new family can blame me.

3. Still no potty accidents.

4. Walks on a leash.

5. Loves the car.

6. When I am home, she is my shadow. When I am away from the home, she is in her crate. I also crate her at night.

7. She did not eat dinner tonight :(

8. She still is not playing or chewing bones.

I will continue to post daily pictures, information & video of this sweet girl named Olive. My prayers are that you will help me to find her a forever home.

Be sure to read Day One & Day Two.

~Christy~

If you are interested in adopting Olive, please email Jo-Anne Cousins, rescue@idogrescue.com or fill out an adoption application at IDOG.