Some local businesses were a huge help when we first had Ray. He had no social skills whatsoever and was generally afraid of people, so noting places with “dog friendly” staff became important.
Once they were advised about Ray’s situation, they generally went out of their way to make him feel welcome, with the result that he has some places that he now insists on visiting whenever he is in the area!
These attachments developed with time such that we felt a Christmas Card from Ray to those special businesses would be a nice thank you gesture for all their support. This year, we have decided to once again create a Christmas Card from Ray and distribute accordingly, and below is the picture for the 2017 card of thanks!
I think that he would make a pretty good Santa himself if pushed!
Really happy to hear local businesses cooperated with Ray and his learning process! I take my own pup, Pinella, to pet-friendly businesses every chance I get. If the dog can handle it, the public exposure truly does wonders to help them become better socialized and less anxious (over time, of course)!
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Dog friendly businesses were priceless as we worked with Ray. He was afraid of people and so every visit to Lululemon, the bank (etc) gave him a new perspective – that people were not necessarily out to hurt him, and bonus… they gave him treats!
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That is so awesome to hear! Public can be extremely stressful for some dogs, but at the same exact time it can help to alleviate some of their other anxieties (like meeting and greeting new people). As you may have read in my blog, Pinella was in training to be a service dog. I have continued her training with the intention of certifying her for therapy work instead (she is so in-touch with other’s emotions). Pet-friendly businesses slowly but surely help us achieve this goal! Very thankful for them!
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Yes, they are invaluable with helping a dog adjust to human interactions.
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Love the pic!!!
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The camera likes him, and he has no problem with it… given a suitable incentive! 🙂
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So I see … quite photogenic!
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Great photo, love it!
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He really does well in front of a camera! 🙂
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I love it! From the hat, the lights, the crossed paws, and most of all, Ray’s expression! Priceless!
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Just good Shepherd/Rotti attitude! 🙂
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Looking handsome and festive, buddy. Your dignified expression makes it all OK.
Love and Christmas licks,
Cupcake
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And to you and yours Cupcake. Woof! Ray.
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Oh such a handsome animal. I bet the cute little bitches are queuing up to sit on his knee (s). Lovely picture Colin. Pats and treats by proxy. 🙂
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Pats and treats passed on…….. and appreciated! 🙂
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What a beautiful card!
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Thanks TC. Having the right model really does help! 🙂
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Hi Handsome, I hope Santa has special treats for you.
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Hi Hester: I’ve been really good all year (seeing cats excluded) so I hope that Santa will bring me treats and toys! Woof! Ray. 🙂
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Ray, you sure have come a long way to tolerate Christmas lights around your neck. I am sure you calculated your increased odds of treats! ❤ Amy
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It’s all about treats Amy… it’s all about treats! Woof! Ray.
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Ray, you are a very good boy! Not only your improved outlook on humans, but your patience for wearing human articles of clothes shows just how good you are.
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All it takes are the right treats, and lots of them! Woof! Ray.
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Haha…I love it! ☺️
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🙂
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hehe A very nice card 🙂
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Bonus! It’s Ray approved! 🙂
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Awesome card – Ray as usual is very photogenic! Love the lights and Santa hat!
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He does do so well as a model! He’ll do anything for the right treats! 🙂
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Oh nice, beautifully decorated
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Yes, he would make a good Santa but, then again, he would make a pretty good tree! 🙂
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What a nice idea and once again Ray poses perfectly. He definitely deserves some good treats from Santa this year! 🙂
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He will be spoiled. I have no doubts about it! 🙂
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I see Ray has his paws crossed. 😃
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Rather ambiguous though. Is he just in his usual chill mode, or is he wishing hard? 🙂
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