Rita's Journey to Love and Happiness

 Rita decided she likes walks. She is no longer jumping at every noise or nervously smelling everything we pass. She walks so well on a leash and really enjoys getting outside.  She also ventured out to a few new homes with us. She found her second best friend while playing with my parents dog, Ryder. They both equally love running and jumping.  They were a match made in heaven and Abbey got a little break.  She got a new sweater from our wonderful neighbor, Trish.  It keeps her warm on those walks she love so much. She also enjoys watching out the window as people walk by. If you are close by you will hear her saying hello as you pass.   The hardest part of us is she still isn't crazy about us. She like the kids more than Tim and I. She really gets nervous when we have to put her in the kennel.  It is quite the game to try and catch her to get her in the kennel.  We are staying patient and giving her time but it is such a change of roles....

 I think the biggest change  we have seen in Rita this week is she is sleeping with us in our bed. She will actually tolerate us being a bit close to her too! It was a big day when we woke up to find her sleeping in our bed with us. Normally she would sleep on the dog bed in our room. I think this means we are a part of her pack. She continues to just love playing with Abbey. They are really the best of friends. I am so relieved to see that Abbey is a wonderful big sister for her. She has also decided that staying in our house and yard is in her best interest. She no longer tries to escape when we open the door! I also noticed the other day when she greeted me in the garage and the door was open she hung around with me! This was such a relief! We also took the shoestring off her collar as we can typically get her to come to us. What a great dog!

 The past 10 days have been filled with getting comfortable on the couch and bed! Rita loves to sleep in all the comfy spots. I think she is making up for so many days sleeping on the cold cement floor. She enjoys her walks and does fairly well on a leash. She is full of energy at times and still loves her bff, Abbey.  As we reflected in our favorites things from 2021, Rita made it to the top of the list. She has brought so much love and joy to our home in just the first few weeks. We really can’t image not having her around.  She still isn’t sure about us sometimes. She just get nervous if we want to touch her. I am being patient but I can’t wait until that is behind us. She is responding to her name occasionally. Other than her shyness you would not know she has such a hard life until 2 months ago. She is truly a blessing.