This evening, after Jane had done her walk on the treadmill, we tried each of the four dogs on it, with varying degrees of success; each dog in turn was observed by the three others.
In the end I sat under the display (driving) end and encouraged the dog at its North end whilst Jane encouraged it from the South end and attempted to guide its rear quarters to remain on track. The dogs didn't seem to fazed by the experience and we had a lot of laughs! Mungo got the idea quite quickly, improving on it by putting his front paws on me and only walking with his back legs.
There is a point to this. We don't give them the exercise they deserve, for a variety of reasons, and if they will walk on the treadmil (and early indications are that at least two will fairly quickly), it will mean that they get at least some exercise - we now have to devise an incentive. Suggestions, anyone?
It is wonderful to feel even a glimmer of fleeting lightness amongst the days you have had......
The word "laugh" is worth its weight in gold.
You all will laugh again and you will "laugh inside" again Jane.
Some of the best therapy comes from dogs!!
As to persuading them.....food, doggy drops, something to "chase"....mmmmm?
Love C
Posted by: carolynn | 11/02/2007 at 10:38 AM