Today was a big day for the one year old Zeke, the youngest golden in our clan. His first day with me on a speaking engagement AND his first day doing real AAT!
Arriving at the Hamilton Club and settling in the dining area, was not a problem either; although, he was a bit nosey about things,when my friend, Cheryl, held him as I set up my laptop and projector. But during the luncheon and my talk, he was a saint! I was so proud (and a pleasently surprised!).
But that was not the end of his day. Monday’s I am scheduled to do AAT at the Lancaster Rehab Hospital, but I usually use Sammy, my nine year old golden or Max, my three year old golden. Today would be Zeke’s first visit in this type of setting.
I had emailed and asked permission to bring the rookie and all were game to give him a shot!
Enter Zeke!
Karen and Zeke’s KPETS nametag pic. It’s official! |
The first toss went about ten feet. The suspense, will he??? He turned around, saw the toy and took off after it AND brought it back! He did this for about six times and then it was time for the patient to sit and rest! HE did it! My boy! !
Our next venture was another walk – this time with a regular walker, with no wheels. This walk was A LOT slower than the first one, but the little champ did great! I difinaltey needed the second leash to keep him along side but using the click/treat as we walked made it go really well!
Another patient needed Zeke to retrieve but I could tell we may be loosing Zeke’s interest. He did fine about four times but then he did his second favorite thing. Took the toy, flopped over on his back and held the toy between his front paws, like a baby holding a bottle. Ah, stole hearts with that act. The patient and therapist didn’t seem to care that he didn’t bring it right back. Chuckles could be heard throughout the gym.
Realizing the pooch was getting tired, our next assignment was to lie on a matt table beside a patient, just so she could focus on her weaker side and make her smile during a therapy session that is not a whole lot of fun. Perfect timing. Zeke rested along side her for a short time. Then he’s get up and reposition. He wasn’t the best at snuggling but I think if I do some click/treat training for this, how hard can it be, right?