Tuesday, October 29, 2024

Marvel and pups

Marvel, Bear, and Norman are all eating substantial helpings of my foster food mix twice a day -- Norman because he's huge, Bear because he's still growing, and Marvel because she's a mother of five puppies. Consequently, my food barrel ran empty yesterday evening. I fed them our Costco food last night and this morning, but this afternoon I went over to Green Dogs to pick up a new supply of foster food. I took Marvel along as another new social experience for her. There were a lot of other dogs around and she barked at them all but was easily distracted from them. She met strangers and children and was good with everyone, especially those who were passing out treats. And I got her fitted for a Gentle Leader. I walked just a short distance with her wearing it and it was clear that she will fight it, but that's a bridge we'll cross another day.

Marvel spent some time with her puppies today but also came indoors to the office for a while and out to the pasture with all the other dogs for a good run. She wants to go check on the pups, and clean up any leftover food and poop, but otherwise she'd rather be inside. She was good in the crate last night and she goes into it as if it's not a new experience for her. Her indoor manners are pretty good but she is definitely a counter surfer. 

I fed the puppies three times today and they quickly devoured all the food each time. I don't really want to go to feeding four times a day so I think I'll just slowly increase the amount I give them on their three meal plan. I picked up a cardboard box at Green Dogs and gave them that as well as new, clean toys this evening. They are easily amused, but variety is nice.



Bear and Bailey

Bear, Marvel, and Norman

I picked out a heavy weight cardboard box. They are always a hit with puppies.

This small ironing board frame has lasted through several litters of puppies.
They can climb on it, it's an incline, and it's an unusual texture for their feet, all good experiences.

The food dish isn't just for eating.



I overestimated the size of the opening in this box, or underestimated the size of the pups.


They are really good about using the pads now, but I still change the bedding once or twice a day.



Shoestrings are always a favorite with puppies.

Cardboard boxes are great for chewing.


I think we'll have a couple week yet before they can get over this wall.


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