It's time for another entry. The days are nice and long and there seems to be less of a hurry in the days when all is said and done. Maybe it's just me but I find this time of year the best for getting things done but yet having those sweet moments of relaxation along the way.

The cottage life seems to be agreeing with Beckett as well. His aim each day now is to get out for walks with us. There is just and excitement in his actions and a sense of Happy on his face when he's out walking around the property with us. We even have a neighbour's dog up at the end of our long lane. Shadow is a dog about Beckett's size but black and he seems to get along well with Beckett. I know when we're going for a walk, Shadow's house is the main focus and then once they've had their play time, Beckett is happy to walk back home with a little more life in his step.

Each morning and night I also make it a habit to take Beckett with me when I feed the horses their grain. He seems to be shy around them but always happy to see them at the same time.

Dewy didn't work out, but there is another with Sophie's place in Montreal. A four year old dog. Apparently it is great with other dogs, but had to have an operation and now needs a specific diet. If that is it for special care, then it is a possible companion for Beckett. If not, then there is a young female dog in NS that is not a rescue and a possibility. Either way, I have to get another dog in here soon so as to have a very sound understanding if Beckett is every going to be the type of dog that can be handled. We all love the advancements he's made and to be truthful, I didn't think I'd make it this far with him. Both Darrin and I are constantly keeping each other in check with Beckett and working him with identical methods, words, and praise. That may be the reason he has advanced to this stage. Now the most important step and it's one that he will either do or not, but it will only be with another dog around to show him. That is to actully want to be touched. Right now, he will allow you to touch him but with a great deal of anxiety and fear. As a household with a lot going on, having to put it all on hold until now has been much more than we thought. I was expecting a dog that would love to romp and play and go for long walks on the beach and through the back woods. Instead we have a dog that is afraid of anyone but us, will not go out the door if there is something there he hadn't seen the last time he was out, and will not allow you to walk up to him standing up. It's always in an kneeling position that you interact with Beckett.

On the up side, he's great in the car, loves other dogs, heels like a pro ... almost, comes when you call him, doesn't chew things.. just collects them and he is a big happy puppy whenever there is another dog around. His training has been completely hands off but now he needs to go to the next stage and allow us to handle him. The comman Sit, is not even near a possibility.