And Then There Were 5

Though a regular visitor to Dogs to Stay Zack had taken a little longer than normal to settle into our routine - perhaps the heat had something to do with it but, however by Tuesday he was as happy as Larry.

Things were soon to change though .... We had been asked if we could look after Smilla (whom we had had here before) and her playmate Susi (a 3 month old Wolf Sable bitch) for the weekend.

Never one to resist a challenge I welcomed Smilla and Susi to Dogs to Stay yesterday afternoon. Mylo was delighted to see Smilla again, they are, ahem, old friends, and he welcomed her as he had before - somewhat bizarre as he is now castrated, Zack too was somewhat friendly with Smilla however I was assured that Smilla's next season was due at the end of July.

Susi - the 3 month pup, is a treasure - I had forgotten what it was like to have a puppy in the house - she is into everything though totally unfazed by being in the company of 4 adults. I am delighted to be able to say that everyone does seem to be getting on quite well - the dynamics are constantly shifting though; Zack plays with Kiva - Smilla wants to join in, Smilla plays with Kiva - Zack wants to join in, Susi plays with Mylo - they all want to join in. Unfortunately Mylo and Zack have had a couple of spats as they are both getting more and more interested in Smilla - fortunately these episodes are dealt with easily and no grudges are held.

Dinner was served - 5 dogs, 5 different diets a logistical nightmare but it all went off quiet well - 5 empty bowls with the right food in the right dog.

A walk around the village followed - we are used to being seen with 2 dogs, sometimes 3 - but never with 5. Though the pack size had changed the comments didn't; "You could do with a sled" - "Have you been breeding?" etc.The evening was very relaxed - though Susi, whom we expected to fall asleep during the evening, kept going 'till the very end - with all of the dogs chilled.

A quick pee break before bed and then they were put to bed for the night in the kitchen - whether Susi (or maybe Mylo) slept in the crate no one will ever know.

We were awoken at 5.00 this morning - not sure by whom, but a new day had begun for the dogs so up we all got. Today may well be a little tricky as Smilla has most definitely come into season - I have yet to work out how best to keep her and Zack apart but I am sure that things will pan out well.

Lappy days