The drive to Ohio was lonnnnnnnnnnnnng. We drove the big red truck...4WD, diesel powered monster with only a std cab and bench seat. Try fitting 2 humans and a full size dog along with all the dog gear and suitcases. Yeah...it was TIGHT! Carver did an outstanding job riding in such close quarters, with no complaining at all.
We arrived in Ohio on Thursday and got to spend a great afternoon with Joe, Denise and Ansel at their home. Carver and Ansel had a ton of fun playing. After a few hours, they were both worn out!
Well, ONE dog looked worn out and One dog looked ready for more playtime. Can you spot the puppy?
We brought Ansel a new Wubba. I think he was quite happy!
We want to thank Joe & Denise for inviting us into their home for so many hours. It truly is a gift to see Ansel in action and enjoying his new life. It's what really makes the work and loss worth it.
So, the big day arrives. Friday was Graduation and Turn-in all wrapped into one big party.
Here we are in the motel just before heading out.
We arrive at the Rec Center and get lots of picture opportunities.
Hey, a blue cape! Maybe he'll get the smaller version in a few months!
Yeah, he's special.
A couple shots with his turn-in brother Digger.
Take the pic already!!!
Mark, Deb, Carver, Ansel and Joe
Goofy faces by all! Doesn't Ansel look good in a blue cape?
After the ceremony, we met up with Callahan and his PR. Carver had not seen his brother since they were about 7 weeks old!
We left the Rec Center and headed back to the North Central Training Facility. This is where Carver will spend his next 6-9 months (unless released) learning all kinda of cool, advanced commands. We refer to this time as "Bootcamp".
We rubbed and loved on the little guy until everyone had a chance to say goodbye. We walked Carver over to the kennels, removed his gear and put him inside. He was quite happy to see his brother already in the kennel and from what we heard from others, was having a good time with Cal!
So another puppy has come and gone. It was a joy to have Carver for 16 months and we hope he meets the challenges ahead of him. Regardless of the outcome, someone will surely have a wonderful dog!
Awwww good luck Carver! So happy you got to visit with Ansel. He's looking good! And love that pic of you and your brother. Hope to hear an update on you soon!
ReplyDeleteI almost didn't make it through the reading without flooding the keyboard. Congratulations and I'm sorry all at the same time. I don't know how you do it but I (and I'm sure a lot of others) are glad you do. Cheers, my friends, and best of luck with the new venture.
ReplyDeleteI have never met Andy (comment above) but when I read his words I thought "it is exactly what is in my heart" (and all over my keyboard as well....). I don't know how you do it but we are all glad you do. You are a blessing to our world. One other little thing to (maybe) bring you a smile.....Tom and I celebrated our 24th wedding anniversary at Anthony's this week and for dessert they brought us....(start the drum roll)....a HUCKLEBERRY SLUMP with vanilla ice cream. I thought of you with every bite. Take good care of yourselves and each other and know that you are loved......
ReplyDeleteAndy, meet "anonymous"...both of you are dear friends that I met through work. You would like each other!
ReplyDeleteCheers Deb, Mark, Carver, and Andy too!
DeleteCongratulations!!! Carver is one handsome, smart boy who will be an amazing addition to a lucky person/family. Well done, Puppy Raisers!!
ReplyDeleteCongrats on a great job with Carver!!!! Carver, you look good in blue! Cheering you on in Advanced Training :-)
ReplyDelete