Shepherd social hour

Erika came by this afternoon to spend a little time getting to know the new shepherds. She brought treats and they respond well to food. Every time to go out there I'm bringing food and they are now gathering at the gate to greet me. They still shy away from being touched, but we are getting there.

Yesterday I brought home a sack full of chicken, hamburger, hotdogs, turkey, and sausage from Clay's mother's freezer. I cooked it all up in a massive meaty stir fry this morning to use in handfeeding the shepherds. It's messy business but they will lick my hands afterwards so that gets us closer to touch. 

Yesterday evening at bedtime we were able to herd them all into the shed at one time. Even Fargo went in so we didn't have to corner him, leash him, and then drag him in with all that drama and trauma. Tonight I plan to attach short leashes to their collars so they will get used to that. Dakota has a vet appointment on Friday morning for vaccines, blood test, and neuter. 

Elliot and his mom stopped by on their way home from the vet today. He had spinal surgery on Monday and stayed until today. The vet thought it went out and his recovery is going very well so far. He is the sweetest boy.

This afternoon after work I took Paisley and Elvis for my daily hike. 

Fargo

Sturgis

Sturgis taking treats from Erika.

Sturgis and Dakota are the most confident of the three.

Fargo did come up and take treats however.

Dakota taking treats from Erika, Sturgis is facing me.

Sturgis and Dakota

Dakota is the most outgoing.

Sturgis is coming around now too.

Fargo is till the shy one, but he was making eye contact today at least,

and that was a first for him.

Dakota is the smallest.

Fargo is the largest of the three.

Foraging for treats.

Elliot, slightly dopey from the pain medicine.

Paisley, starting out our hike.

Paisley, overlooking the Rivanna river.

3.14 miles today