Practicing

These are videos taken at Jordan Elementary where Zoe is going one or two times a week to "practice" her skills with a young person. Teagan has been kind enough to allow Deb and Zoe to interrupt her studies and spend some time on skills Zoe will need to use once placed. Enjoy!

Zoe Goes to Skateville

We had a nice time watching family members do a little skating and a little falling! Zoe wasn't allowed out on the floor, but she did enjoy watching everyone. Not sure she appreciated the really loud music though! She does love "her" kids...

Names and Nick Names

Really, how many names can a dog have?! Here is a list of most of the names Zoe is called and responds to.....

Zoe(pronounced zo-ee)

Zo

zozo

zozo bean

zoe bean

zoe bean banana

jojo

zso zso

peanut

peanut butter (the "t's" are pronounced as "d's")

Squishy face - truly must try and get a picture of this one!

Is there something wrong that I can't just stick to one name? I think it has to do with the different parts of her personality that shine through. She's sometimes very serious and sometimes hilarious.

Go, Find, Bring

I have been working with Zoe on these commands...which if she didn't move my slippers, boots or towels in the first place we wouldn't have to be doing! Actually, this will come in very handy when she is placed as there may be a need for her to go and find something - right now slippers, but later maybe it's keys or a phone to call for help.
We're also working on "generalizing" commands which means she understands the command in various contexts (at home, in a store, outside). Next we begin much more intensive proof training so that she's solid on her commands no matter what distractions happen to be going on around her...food, toys, other dogs, loud noises.
She is getting closer now to leaving and it is such a poignant time. As excited as I am to see how great she will be, there's also a sadness in letting her go. The closest I can equate to this would be children going off to college or getting married and starting a new life. The good thing for me is that I will know where she is going and will be able to see her periodically.