February 28, 2010

White Dog has a "must change or improve" list already started for her new brother. For one, he snores! Secondly, he has worse party manners even than Poppy who jumped on the table once and started eating the cheese dip. He is still stinky and must improve personal hygiene (Quinn goes to our Vet on Monday and the groomer on Wednesday). For his part Quinn has curiously and gently approached her and sniffed hello; Michael about swooned when White Dog allowed Quinn to rub muzzles. Quinn is very timid and meek right now and seems to be trying very hard to please. He has obviously had some pretty rough times but there are flashes that his spirit is not entirely broken. White Dog has promised him that she teach him how to enjoy being a regular boy who can love life and be happy. Michael cannot wait for Quinn to learn how to play with toys.

Michael and Quinn already make an amazing pair. So very gently Michael pets or strokes or touches Quinn everytime they are near each other and Quinn just melts into his touch. He speaks calmly and quietly and keeps his frustration and anger in check because he knows that Quinn is sensitve to harsh tones and anger. They have gone on walks together, even in the rain just to make sure Quinn gets enough exercise. Michael worries about what Quinn is eating, how much and how often he can be fed to build up his underweight. Quinn looks for him when Michael is not around or leaves the room. White Dog oversees the developing affair with close observation and well placed hints.

Later on Sunday, our Heart Family met and shared a meal with Casper, Nikki, and Buddy's mom from Saskatchewan and Comet and his Girl. It was a marvelous get together despite the rain. All of the dog friends got along like they meet every week. There was White Fluff and hugs flying everywhere. The four Eskies: White Dog, Quinn, Prinnie, and Comet even made Dragon and Digby Eskies-for-the-Day so they would not feel left out! It was an incredible Celebration of Dogs, the Blog Community, budding friendships, and joie de vie. Photos will come as we gather them from five different cameras.

On the long ride back to Albuquerque, Michael confided to us that he and Quinn had had a long conversation in the bathroom after Michael's shower. Michael told Quinn that he knew Quinn had a "terrible life before but from now on I am here and so are Siku, Steve and Sue. You will never have to worry again. We will all love you forever and keep you safe." To us Michael added, "I am glad we saved him." To which White Dog replied for all of us "Woof! So are we!")