New routine this week....

I started something new this week. I have started walking Sheeba in the mornings for a couple miles. It at least calms her down in the mornings. Right now the mornings are cool and since I go around 6AM, very few people are out walking their dogs and I don't have to worry about their dog(s) or mine snarling at each other.

For now I have better control over mine for we have resorted to training (K-9) and they recommend using a shock collar. I have been against it, but it has truly been a lifesaver in controlling Sheeba and what she does. She is nearly 100 pounds now, and I cannot hold on to her. She has already pulled hubby to the ground twice in the past few months so if he can't control her, how can I? Afraid he will break a hip in a fall, we had to resort to this.

But it works. We keep it on the minimal and hit the 'nick' button to keep her on track. Sometimes we have to move it up a little because she gets stubborn. But it does get her to mind.

It's nice to be able to take HER for a walk, versus her taking ME. Seriously, she used to hurt my arms she would be pulling so hard and I would have to use both hands on the leash. Now the leash is held loosely and she walks even with my feet. When we get to a street and I tell her to sit, she does. When I tell her to 'heel', she starts walking with me. If I tell her to 'stay', she 'most often' will do that as long as I tell her to. We don't need to use that one often and need to practice it more.

We have even been able to get her to stop jumping on people when they come over. She still gets real excited to see someone and runs circles around them, but at least she isn't trying to jump all over them. We can observe it most when the daughter and son-in-law come over to help pack (which is another story) for our move (to wherever that will be). She will run circles around them wanting their attention. We generally have to put her in the crate to calm her down.

Which is interesting. The past month she has been going into her crate on her own and laying down. I asked the trainer about it because it was unusual. He said that is her "cave" and that is where she feels safe. So when she want to get away, she will go into her 'cave' and lay down. Makes sense. I guess we all have our 'caves'.

I have been enjoying the walk as it is just me, Sheeba, and God. It gives me a chance outside of my time in my room to just talk with God, sing to Him, and just be with Him. Sheeba doesn't pull me so I can focus more on God than I do on her. He brings things to mind that I need to talk to Him about, and we have good conversations. Albeit most are one-sided, but when I listen, He will talk with me.

This morning I was reminded of the song my mama used to sing.... And, He walks with me and He talks with me... and He tells me I am His own.... and the joy we share, as we tarry there, none other, has ever, known.

Blessings!