Ray was originally picked up as a stray by two Humane Society officers (in dark uniforms), and taken in their van to the shelter. When Ray came to live with us, he showed a distinct caution towards some vehicles, and disliked security guards, police, and anybody else wearing a dark uniform! An understandable reaction really.
As with many aspects of Ray, time and lots of TLC have motivated him to change in soΒ many ways and, just this past weekend, we participated in our Humane Society’s fund raising Mutt Strutt! After the walk, we wandered around the park area where the walk started and finished, and came cross a golden opportunity for a nostalgic pic!
“Hey Mom! I said hello to them so do I get a treat ?”
Time passes so quickly. It does not seem that long ago that he would have been tensing up just seeing those uniforms.
Such pawsitive progress!
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You must be very proud of Ray, Colin. He looks so calm in the above photo. Amazing job. π
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We are very proud of him because he had to learn so much about our world, and make so many changes in his attitude towards it! We do however have to remind “Ray admirers” that it has taken us 3 years to get him to this point. Was it worth the time and effort? Absolutely, we have a real sweetheart of a dog living with us!
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Most definitely.
We have all become ” Ray Admirers” now. π
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Humane Society Rescue officers are my heroes.
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Yup. Their job is not always easy.
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Oops! Phone messed up!
The How-To Manual for successful adoptions. π
One thing that stood out to me is how you went into.this process willing to learn! Willing to be taught the best way to work with Ray. Too many people think they know all and don’t want to take the time to learn.
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Life in general should always be a learning experience, but so many people see a need to learn as some kind of flaw in their character. I would suggest that believing we know everything is a major character flaw! My life is one enormous educational program, and the day I stop learning something new… will be the day that I stop! π
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And I agree with you! π
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Way to go Ray!! I agree with Kate, everyone thinking of adopting should get a copy of your book. The How-
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… and I agree with both of you! π
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Awww… Ray has really changed for the better. He seems so comfortable around uniforms π He surely deserves many treats π
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He does deserve many treats… and he gets many treats, so don’t encourage him further! π
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Haha, he is a pampered ‘boy’ π
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Just that picture is heartwarming.
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It really is Amy. He has come a long way. π
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Great how you restored love into Ray.
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We had lots of professional guidance, and a dog who was receptive to change! π
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An awesome love story.
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What a great picture of Ray. He looks happy and at ease around the uniforms.
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Yes. He was with them for quite a few minutes, and of course they made a fuss of him! π
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How could they not?
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That was a major challenge a few years ago Carol, because he was uncomfortable around people and really needed his “space”… but everybody wanted to touch him and be friends with him!
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Yay for love!!!
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Yay indeed! π
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GO RAY!
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Thanks Molly! WOOF! Ray.
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Ray has made a lot of progress! I love stories like Ray’s, where the adopters have stuck by and been patient with the animals as they adjust to a new environment and let go of old fears.
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Hi Lavinia – Yes, it is so rewarding to read about animals that have been given a second chance at life. Ray was my first dog, so he was a huge education. Our first 18 months together were an emotional roller coaster due to many complications, and that time frame has been documented in a book “Who Said I was up for Adoption?” (link below). All profits from the book are directed to the Oakville & Milton Humane Society (who initially rescued him).
https://books.friesenpress.com/store/title/119734000018826578
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With my GSD, it was anyone in a white jacket or shirt, so I associated vets or a butcher as having hurt her at some time. When I voiced my theory, the vet took his coat off, and she was absolutely fine. They don’t forget. Treats by proxy π
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WOOF! Ray. π
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Everyone adopting should get a copy of your book. It documents what is possible. So many dogs are not given a chance and most if not all of their reactions are based on fear or previous experiences. Ray chose his owners wisely.
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Yup…….. he did make a good choice! Sadly so many people do not seem to understand what is involved in getting a pet. They cannot see beyond “that cute puppy”(or kitten or bunny etc.) Thanks for recommending my book Kate. Ray was a huge education for me… and if the book can help another dog owner……!
https://books.friesenpress.com/store/title/119734000018826578
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Reblogged this on O LADO ESCURO DA LUA.
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