Bernard

Bernie Graduates!

Oct. 22, 2005

How's this for a lucky guy? Bernie worked very hard and learned his lessons well. Not only did he learn manners, such as not jumping on people or charging out the door, but also basic obedience. Nothing was too much for Bernie, he nailed it all and now has his very own home where he can show it all off.

Good luck, Bernie. You have your second chance and it is well deserved with all your hard work. Be good and show your new people the love, happiness and shenanigans we've enjoyed during you stay!

Sept 25, 2005

Here's Bernard! He arrived today from Amador Animal Control. He's a buff handsome guy, a Boxer/Pointer cross. Bernard (Bernie to his friends) is about 14 months old, male soon to be neutered and in great shape. In fact, he can leap almost six feet in the air!

Bernie is just starting school. At first, he was a little unsure and showed some fear when strangers would approach his kennel. Together, we're showing him that strangers are just friends he hasn't had a chance to meet yet and it's working. But open the gate and look out, he's a tail wagging happy guy that's ready to out and about.

He loves showing off his manly markings and look at that show stance. Too bad there's no official category for him in the AKC show ring. But he'll be ready for next year's A-PAL Paws in the Park event!

It's only the first lesson but he's learning what it means to walk on the lead. He's not really hiding, Margaret had just finished turning around and Bernie was catching up. The real point of the lesson and the heel command is to walk on a loose lead. That what he is being taught here. So rather than us dragging him around, he learns to stay with us at the side. That is what he's doing here, catching up with Margaret and when he gets there he'll be rewarded with praise and a continued walk. Soon he'll be heeling like he's glued there no matter where you go. And you won't have to tug on the lead even once.

Socialization is a critical part of his training. He will learn how to meet and properly interact with new dogs. Here Bernie gets to meet Virgil the Greyhound. Bernie didn't quite know what to make of him at first, but soon found out that he was a nice guy and a good friend to pal around with.

*Stay tuned to see how he does as school progresses. So far he's having a great time and we are very happy with him. There is no doubt in our minds that he's going to make a great partner and companion for a family looking for a handsome guy. If you would like more information about Bernie please send us an email or call us at (209) 223-3194. He's from the Amador County Animal Control shelter, so if you would like to get a head start and pre-qualify for Bernie an adoption application is available here which can be completed on like, printed and sent in.

Bernie says goodbye to the shelter!