Week 6

I'd read in the paper that when your dog follows you around the house, perhaps he's bored and perhaps you and he could both benefit from some playtime to shake things up a bit. With all these snow days, Rocco follows me around the house especially in the morning, so we play hide and seek. He's getting great at this game and finds me every time; he's not yet taken the lead on hiding, but we both like the running and sneaking-around-the-corner parts of this game. Playing with his rope toy pleases us all in the evening, though his humans are respectful of his missing teeth so don't pull too hard.

Week 5

Rocco's big adventure this week was his first visit to our camp. We parked on the main road and walked in, but because the snow was so deep, we couldn't make it up to the camp. Instead we walked across the lake to see Queenie, a pretty and big wooden structure provided by the local historical society who'll sell tickets for an ice-out bet. On the way we visited with an ice fisherman who had half a dozen fishing holes that were keeping him busy. It was a great cold and windy day to be out on the ice, and Rocco trotted along nicely with us. On our way back, we stopped in to see a couple of our neighbors; one was glad to meet our new dog, the other wondered if we could put him in a back room while we visited -- NOT.

Week 4

Rocco loves riding in the car, and is glad to do errands with us or take a longer ride. He's very popular at the nursing home where folks who stop to admire him also share a greeting with mom. And, he's even dealing well with the nursing home elevator.

Our Rocco doesn't mind the icy sidewalks, and prances along nicely for a walk. But, he doesn't stay outdoors too long during these cold days. This week we think his biggest new adventure is walking on top of the crusty snow. What a sight!

Week 3

Rocco visited the nursing home again this week, and this time he was a confident and affectionate guy. He nuzzled mom when we arrived, and he sat quietly as we had our coffee and snack -- one for Rocco too. When he is lying down and attentive, Rocco crosses his front legs like the well-mannered dog that he is. Very cute.

Today we walked at Alden Labs and found a confined area where we dared to let Rocco off leash. He did great, staying with us, and then coming when called. Good dog.

He loves to be brushed and seems at ease when we brush his teeth too. And this weekend we began his monthly flea and tick and heartworm meds. Handsome and healthy Rocco.