My Last Free Weekend

... hahahah. M. says don't say that, but I think it's pretty funny. After Lily gets here, I'll be dog-shackled again, just the way I like it. (And they say dogs have separation anxiety.)

Saturday we picked up a new collar and a longer leash (1.8m) for indoors, engraved her tags with our phone number and address, checked out the offerings on premium dry dog food, and a choice of dry snacks (chicken strips, freeze dried duck liver) to help show her the ropes. Oh, and a spritz bottle of Urine-Off, for accidents.

I'm also reviewing all our dog books, which include Rescue Dog (Gwen Baily), Culture Clash (Jean Donaldson), and Good Owners, Great Dogs (Brian Kilcommons), as well as the extensive articles at dogbreedinfo.com (Understanding Dog Behavior).

Today I've cut up old bed sheets to line the bedding. Anything goes the first few days to a week. Best be prepared. And remember, Lily won't know what's happened, if she can trust us, if she's safe. Providing a quiet, calm, and safe environment, and letting her see for herself that it's okay, that's the way to start
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Preparing for Lily: the week before

I'm putting together old towels and old blankets, as inside accidents will occur, and I'll want to wash them out easily. We looked over our old crates and dog carry bags to see which will feel safer for the trip back from the airport.

After reading up Gwen Bailey, Brian Kilcommons, and Patricia McConnell on rescue dogs, am amassing a lot of helpful links:

Petfinder: Tips-for-first-30-days

Paw-rescue: Bringing your new dog home

Lucky Day Rescue: On the first few days of submissive behavior and lavish attention

Healthy Pets: Easing into the Transition

Patricia McConnell: Three days, Three Weeks, Three Months