Newman

It's  nice that when you check the volunteer board all the dogs have had so  many activities, you are just enhancing an already pretty good day for them.   We are lucky to live near such a shelter.   Newman, a nine month old mostly Short Haired Border Collie, was on his tummy at the back of his kennel.   Day three  at the shelter and his cautious intelligent eyes were taking it all in. Timid, according to his profile but after just a quick sniff and treat, he was cuddling close as I got him harnessed for our walk.

His profile indicated that he is very people oriented, this became clear early in our walk as he turned every leash untangling into a petting opportunity.  There were lots of these since a leash is a new experience for Newman.  Actually, almost everything is a new experience for Newman.  He and his sister were brought in as strays so their background is anyone's guess. Newman enjoyed  his walk, especially turning his leash into a toy.

On our return we stopped in the exercise yard for a much appreciated romp.  A Border Collie puppy is never low on energy.  Newman does not yet have the ball or fetch concept;  However he's good at "come" since he loves being close to you.  When I told him to sit, he did it, then quickly went down and rolled over for belly rubs.  He is also the first dog I've seen,  curious enough about the agility tunnel to enter it and go halfway through - three times!  Unfortunately the combination of his newness, intelligence and caution about new things (except the agility tunnel) did not bode well for photos.  He was uncomfortable around the camera and it shows.

As we were returning to the shelter a family stopped to talk about him; apparently, just yesterday he would not even leave his kennel for them.  He has certainly made big gains since then, as he  quickly went to his back for belly rubs from them today!  He is such a sweetheart, even does well with other dogs and cats; let's hope he finds his new family soon.