Chester's Tales - new location

New Chester's Tales have been posted, but although the existing files will remain here, all those files and any new content will be on my own web page. That way I have one location for all my writing ... book updates as well as a dedicated page for Chester's blog.

please visit us at: kathylapeyre.com

The web page will continue to be improved with more photos and stories. Also that's where I will write about the progress on the book, links to other authors and/or news about other rescue dogs.

thanks for your continued support
Kathy

Today's latest

And the adventures continue. Again this morning Chester decided to join me upstairs. At first he grabbed a toy and returned to the basement. Then he brought another favorite upstairs and "walked" onto my bed. He's been there over an hour while I finished reading a book. I couldn't resist getting camera in hand again to document his latest improvement.

Chester speaks

For over four months Chester hasn't said much. He doesn't bark, has only growled a few times (in what he thought was protection of me). His only sounds in life are snoring when he first falls asleep, scared sounds when he's having a nightmare ... and the squeaky whistle sound he makes when he is distressed.

During the past week he speaks loud and clear. Chester is finally beginning to express his own wants and desires. Previously his only "opinions" were ones when we made him do something he didn't want to do ... like exiting the car after a ride, moving from a hidden or safe location, or going out in the back yard to potty. Lately he has followed us upstairs a few times. It was entirely his idea to leave his normal daytime hideout. One time he climbed the stairway behind Glenn and simply appeared in my office where I was reading. He followed me wherever I went that afternoon and joined me on my upstairs bed for a nap. A day or so later, he came back upstairs with me after dinner and headed straight to the entry hall. He walked around for awhile, taking turns looking out the sidelight windows on either side of the front door. Chester made it clear that he wanted to go somewhere, anywhere. It was pitch dark outside so I decided we'd run a quick errand to the pharmacy in town where I needed to pick up a prescription anyway. He stood patiently, as always, while I fastened his halter and leash and he walked straight to the car.

All of this sounds very mundane and if you didn't know Chester, you might think it was a waste of good energy writing about a dog who enjoys a nap on a people bed or one who likes to go for a ride. Yes, Chester enjoys those things, but hasn't always. Even when he has in the past, it wasn't his idea. When we first adopted him it was a physical struggle to get him to move from under a table. Then it became easier to get him to walk with me in the house while leashed. He has never expressed an interest in telling us what "he" wants ... until now.

Chester is learning to speak, and better yet, he's learning that it's okay to do so. I look forward to seeing what else he has to say in the months and years to come.

New Chester, new photos

Chester changes

A few days ago Chester added a new dimension to his favorite creature comforts. His chosen daytime haunt isn't Casey's old dog bed beside Glenn's bed. It's not even the blanket and yesterday's dirty clothes that Glenn drops by the other side of the bed. Those were all well and good for a week or so. Now he's taken over the bed itself. Not Casey's, but Glenn's. He takes short naps there, all stretched out like he hasn't a care in the world (he hasn't, but never acted that way before).  He sits up and checks to see what I'm doing here in the next room (there's an open doorway between us so he can monitor my actions). His vantage point is better from the height of the bed as opposed to floor space on either side.

Chester has finally learned to enjoy cuddling. Previously he not only wouldn't look at you but he resisted petting or close contact of any kind. Not long after he began looking "at" people, he also started to rise to meet your hand when you pet his head. Now he loves it when you wrap your body close to him. Yesterday when I sat on the bed to cuddle him, he savored it for awhile, then raised his head and craned his neck suddenly to see over my prone body. Apparently I was in the way of a television commercial he liked. Go figure!!

Being with Chester on a daily basis makes it difficult to pick up on the tiny improvements in his life. Yesterday while I was brushing him, I was surprised at how much hair is on his body. When he came to us his hair coat was minimal, brittle, dry and thin. What little hair he had was over a bony frame with pale skin showing through. Now he not only has more flesh on his bones, but he's growing lots of shiny, healthy hair. He even has a bit of the soft down undercoat hair that Goldens are supposed to have. Like any of the water dogs, they have an undercoat of hair that insulates and protects their skin from wet and cold even when they wade in ponds during winter weather. They were bred to retrieve waterfowl after all.

Other recent changes include his approaches to us (all the way from basement bedroom, through a doorway and into the family room) when we offer him certain treats. Previously even when Chester made attempts to approach, he rarely crossed a threshold. He would stand and walk to the doorway, look around to see if danger was around the corner. Then likely he'd retreat to his original position on a bed or under a table. Now it only takes one mention of "chicken", "duck", "biscuit" or "bone" to get his attention. He knows what each treat means and is anxious to get any one of them. When we first got him, food was important and to be protected but treats weren't necessarily enough to cause him to approach. He'd accept them if we brought the snack to his secluded location. Also, I've mentioned in previous episodes that he will approach when he sees his halter. He sits or stands, waiting patiently for it and the leash to be locked into place. A ride in the car or a walk in the neighborhood is special and worth standing still for the necessary halter and leash.

The sight of car keys will also cause Chester to approach and wait for his halter and leash. That's a fairly consistent behavior with most dogs. Chester has now upped the game. He approaches for the halter and leash when I put certain shoes on or when I dress with nice jeans, shirt and a jacket. He knows that I spend my days in casual clothes and sock-footed. When Mom puts on shoes and wears a jacket, it's time to go ... someplace ... any place ... I don't care ... we're going. Yay!! The exciting part for me will be when he not only wants to go, but when he's okay getting back out of the car ... or when he's okay actually seeing other people or dogs. To date he loves to ride and enjoys our walks, but he is still frightened when we venture out of his usual walking route or when we expect him to exit the vehicle. Danger is everywhere, just ask a rescue dog.

The only sound Chester ever makes is a quiet squeaky whistle/whine. That's the only way I can describe it. It's such a soft noise that Glenn didn't even hear it at first even when I brought it to his attention. In the beginning Chester only made the noise while he walked towards me, if I'd been away from him for awhile (like to welcome me back). I never left his side for more than an hour or so at a time, like to go upstairs to prepare a meal. That behavior only lasted several weeks but Chester still makes the same sound when in distress. If he's had an accident he alerts us as soon as we enter the room (the times we've failed to get him outside soon enough after eating). Sometimes I hear him whistle when he and I first go outside in the morning while I'm waiting for him to potty after breakfast. Like I said, I'm certain the noise is a distress call of sorts, but it's very quiet and only used to express his concern.

Although Chester is very definitely my dog and companion, he has begun to trust Glenn more lately. He does spend much of his day on Glenn's bed and occasionally hangs out there in the evening with Glenn and Casey. It's funny to see all three of them sitting or lying around on the bed, watching TV westerns.

This morning we had a rare treat, but I hope it becomes habit. Glenn came upstairs with Casey, like every morning ... headed to the garage for their morning of woodworking. Chester has the option any morning to return upstairs but he prefers his own space in the basement. Today Chester joined them and walked upstairs with them. Glenn and Casey headed to the garage. Chester came to my office. He followed me to the kitchen and he "walked" onto the sofa in that room. Next he went to my bedroom where I thought he might grab another stuffed animal toy. No interest in that. For about 20 minutes, he simply followed me around, on his own, wherever I was (that's a real first). He once spent time with me like that but only when I brought him room to room with his leash, with few exceptions. This morning he eventually walked down the stairwell and waited at the door for me to let him back to his basement hangout. But it was Chester's idea this morning to be upstairs with me and that's impressive and touching. Note: Chester "walks" onto furniture. Casey jumps onto sofas, her chair downstairs, the beds. Chester "walks" onto furniture, even our tall beds. He is so lanky and long-bodied and his legs are so long, he simply and gracefully places a front foot up, then steps up with a back leg and so on until he's where he wants to be. I love just watching him move, it's effortless and fluid.

We can't say that every day is something new with Chester ... but when he takes a step in the direction of becoming a happy, well-adjusted dog, it's certainly something to write about.

I'm a devious inside dog

Any animal lover, and anyone who has a pet, can testify to the humor in it all. I started to say "pet owner" but that's comical in itself because we never "own" them, or shouldn't if we're caring for them properly. They're members of our family and should bring tears of laughter to our eyes just as any crazy aunt or silly brother would.

Casey has been a source of laughs from day one. Puppies, after all, can usually cause even the most serious of people to crack a smile. Casey also has a personality that's befitting of the classic Golden Retriever. She is friendly to a fault where her only issue with obedience training is her lack of concentration when people are present who want to pet her. There is an unwritten phrase in Casey's life that says "my purpose in life is to love people and other animals and they are supposed to love me as well". Casey rarely goes anywhere or does anything without benefit of wiggle hips and wagging tail. Happy go-lucky is her motto, especially when she's glued to her "Daddy" Glenn. She knows he is "her" person. When we decided to get another Golden, it was my hope that the new dog would someday have that kind of bond with me.

Four months ago, enter Chester. A nondescript dog without a personality. Skinny with hair coat so thin you could see through to the flesh. Loose skin everywhere. The extra skin around his mouth looked odd and it produced an unusual smacking sound when he moved his jaw. No smiles. Not even a tail wag ... ever. He didn't even glance "at" anyone until Thanksgiving week (2 months into our adoption of him), just this blank, lost stare. We weren't even sure there was anyone inside this shell of a dog ... not sure he would ever appear. But we had to try.

Chester spent his days under tables or in hidden corners and when he walked his tail was always placed tightly between his legs. There's nothing funny about a domesticated animal who isn't really living. Chester was alive, breathing - we fed him, took him outside to potty, we petted him numerous times a day - but he wasn't living in the true sense of the word. Casey tried daily to get his attention. Not only was he not interested, he didn't even try to play. If the seven years per dog year is even close, imagine a 35-year-old who has never had any enjoyment in life and you can picture Chester's dilemma. Tail wagging was months away and to this day is surprising to see. I'm not sure he even realizes that he's doing it when it does happen ... it's rare and fleeting. Chester doesn't seem comfortable wagging his tail. It appears as a response he's not in control of and doesn't quite understand ... awkward.

Over time we've seen progress with Chester's attitude. Thankfully he is one of the most gentle souls I've ever known. I doubt there's an angry or aggressive bone in his body ... given his background, that's a miracle. Each time he makes a change to the next step of improvement, it is obvious. I feel certain that he contemplates a situation for a long time before acting on it. Then one day, the new behavior becomes fixed into his schedule as if it was always there.

Okay, Chester believes he's strictly an "inside" dog, or should be. He spent his previous life as a puppy mill breeder, living in a small chicken coop with 17 other dogs. I don't blame Chester for not wanting to brave the elements. But, he's taken this to new levels. Originally his potty time routine involved me leashing him (numerous times a day) and physically dragging him to the stairs and out to the back yard. I stayed with him for fear he'd find a way out of the fenced yard. If he had escaped at that time, we'd probably never see him again. The next level of improvement meant I could leash Chester, take him to the slider door, unleash him and gently push him outside. This meant I had to shut the door quickly as Chester would spin and try to come back in, regardless of the condition of his bladder. A month or so passed and I could simply hold his collar and walk with him to the back door, open it and say "go potty" and he'd go outside. That scenario holds true today. It's what happens after he's outdoors that cracks me up.

If I stand at the slider door and watch Chester, he will stand there and watch me ... for a l-o-n-g time. He's very patient and extremely good at the waiting game. Stubborn dog!!  He really has no intention of going out into the cold wet grass to do anything, let alone to pee. He doesn't particularly care to venture away from the porch light at night. There might be something scary out there and it wouldn't be a good idea to stray too far from the warm bed, regular meals and snacks at this house. Originally Chester wasn't interested in personal hygiene, never so much as licked himself. He now believes he should be well groomed at all times and can't stand to have dirty feet. So, if he was to venture into the yard and (heaven forbid) got muddy, it would involve prompt cleaning ... a lot of work for a guy who'd simply rather stay inside to begin with. It's rather ironic for a macho breeder dog to act so feminine, but that's actually the best way to describe his new personality ... prissy.

So, we play this game ... I hold Chester's collar and walk with him to the slider door ... I go just far enough away where he can't see me, but where I can watch his clever tricks. Once outside he goes to the closest edge of the patio (about 3 feet from the door). He sits and pees and promptly returns, waiting to be let back inside. Sometimes most of the pee actually goes on the patio although he's sitting in the grass. If he thinks I'm not paying attention he simply walks to that general area, circles to the edge of the patio and returns ... smiling as if to say "okay, I did it, now let me in". If I leave him there a minute or two longer, he may finally relent and go back and actually pee. When the weather is nasty, raining or windy, he will actually pee "on" the flagstone patio right by the door, under cover of the patio roof so he doesn't get wet feet. Or his latest trick even in dry weather ... in an effort to return quickly ... he heads to the lawn area, stands and pees, then walks back towards the door, peeing as he goes, sometimes leaving a trail all the way back to the door. I guess in Chester's mind, there's no point staying outside if you don't have to. He spent most of his life outside ... paid his dues ... now it's time to be an indoor dog.

The only way Chester actually goes farther into the yard to pee is if I'm outside with him. Even then he tries to fake me out that he went when he actually just sat for a few seconds. He then circles back to wait at the door. Comical Chester, really, but I've caught on to your system. Our morning routine has become a different kind of game. After breakfast I walk outside with him, grab the shovel to clean up yesterday's piles. He only goes in one area of the yard to do his business.  Casey prefers the other. So while I head over to take care of hers, Chester walks to the lawn on the other side of the patio, then quickly heads back to the patio door. I walk to "his" side of the lawn and around the corner, up the hill and wait. Within a minute or two, he'll walk part way up the hill, do his thing and return to the door. Chester is never outside in the back yard with me for more than a few minutes. Potty time, after all, should be quick or even nonexistent if you can fool your Mom into thinking you went.

Why our dogs aren't so particular on walks is just one of those things. I truly believe they enjoy watching us pick up the piles from the sidewalk or other places when we're away from home. Chester looks at Casey and they each smile ... got 'em again didn't we?

Observant much?

Photo taken in October while on a walk with Casey (left) and Chester

Being observant is something dogs do, probably most of the time without us noticing. We all have busy lives and go about our business. They watch our actions, our body language. They pay attention to our tone of voice and our words. That is, however, the way they learn our expectations. Gaining their attention is paramount to successful training.

The first few months after we adopted Chester, I wasn't sure what he watched or if any of it was registering. His blank stare indicated that he wasn't always present, or in the present. Casey tried, unsuccessfully, several times a day to get his attention. Chester's eyes held dark secrets of neglect and abuse and his night time screams and panic attacks were testament to that.

Then one day his eyes lit up when he looked at me - his world, and ours, changed. He seemed to notice everything. He began actually playing with his stuffed animals (I still refer to them as his dolls because of the way he pampers them). During that same time Chester began watching Casey more closely when she interacted with us, particularly during our evening rough-house sessions. Now he doesn't appear frightened by our tug-of-war or chase games. In fact his eyes light up and he comes close to joining in the fun. Watching him, you can see it in his eyes and body language - he wants so badly to participate but just isn't there quite yet.

Since Chester recently chose to inhabit the basement bedroom as "his" space, we have adjusted our lifestyle to blend with his. Over time I'm sure Chester will make another adjustment, so the temporary use of the basement family room instead of my upstairs office is a small sacrifice. Not only does Chester evidently prefer the space itself in Glenn's bedroom, apparently he likes the television in that room. He's close to the food and snack source (a small room just off the family room). Although he dislikes having to go outside for potty breaks, his chosen hangout is also very close to the slider door to the back yard. I'm sure he thinks that if he must go outdoors in this wet and cold weather, at least he'll be quickly back to his warm bed, his stuffed animal friends and the TV.


We're all creatures of habit, but perhaps I need to change my routine a bit. Since I've settled  into retirement, my wardrobe has become too predictable or Chester has now become too observant. In the morning after I have a few cups of coffee, I change from pajamas into comfy clothes. Usually that's a pair of pull-on, string-tie pants I can wear on the treadmill or for a long walk with the dogs. That's accompanied by a baggy t-shirt and my favorite jogging shoes. After my shower or bath the fashion statement of the day is a clean pair of baggy pants or yoga capris and a t-shirt.


Athletic socks are the footwear around the house. I rarely put shoes on unless there's a need, like going outdoors when it's wet. Making a quick walk to the car for something or to take the garbage out on dry pavement doesn't necessitate shoes in my world. (I can still hear my parents "Kathy, put your shoes on.") When I do wear shoes now they each have a purpose: loafers to take Chester outside to potty or to walk down the street to the mailbox, or those short trips outside on wet pavement - soft black tie shoes when leaving the house to shop or for other errands - jogging shoes for the obvious.

The same holds true with my choice of shirts and jackets. We keep our home at a comfortable temperature so I rarely wear more than short-sleeved t-shirts indoors. This time of year when I leave the house on errands I prefer a nicely fitting shirt and a parka that's warm and waterproof. When I'm only leaving for a few minutes, like to take Chester out back to potty, I wear a lighter weight hoodie. Pants are basic in my wardrobe as well. Baggy, comfortable ones around the house or to exercise or walk dogs. Nice jeans whenever I leave the house for trips longer than a walk to the mailbox.

Not only are my fashion choices predictable, but Chester's reactions have been as well. When he sees, or hears the car keys, he approaches me. He loves to ride, anywhere and any time. Also, when Chester sees me with his halter and/or leash, his body language shows excitement and he smiles and approaches, ready to go. Those two instances have been the only ones causing Chester to approach, other than the words biscuit, bone or chicken, which he knows to be treats.

Yesterday afternoon I was chilled when I got to the basement, so I went back upstairs and returned wearing my lightweight hoodie. When I approached to pet Chester, he ran away, over the top of the bed to the other side and back. I hadn't made a noise or movement that would have startled him. I didn't say anything to him at all so it wasn't anything in my voice that disturbed Chester. Then it dawned on me ... I was wearing the jacket that means "we're going outside in the rain and cold, it's time for you to go potty." We had just been out back for that and he was having no part of going out again when he didn't have to "go".

Chester's observation skills failed him. Had he noticed I was still sock-footed, he might have just been puzzled and not panicked. Maybe tomorrow I'll wear the hoodie when I bring the leash and halter downstairs. We can't have our already fearful dog afraid of hoodies too.

Comfort zone

When Chester finds a comfort zone he generally packs his bags and plans an extended vacation. He really settles into routines. Although his patterns have evolved over the months, most of the time it’s fairly easy to determine how much he will tolerate. That’s not to say I haven’t made mistakes along the way. I have pushed him into panic zone several times but have paid the price right along with him. A few times this has happened quite honestly by accident, others have occurred simply by my insistence that he try to move on with his rehabilitation. Obviously, in those few instances Chester wasn’t quite ready for that next step. You never know until you try though, and I’d rather attempt a change than to be afraid he might fail and miss an opportunity to excel. If we’re too fearful for our pets and children, they might never reach their true capabilities.

Severe panic and true fear cause this dog to flee immediately to the nearest impossible space in which to hide. Then it’s likely he’ll defecate and pee wherever he is at the time. Occasionally those hiding spaces have been precarious ones that we’d swear were too small for an animal his size. Sometimes those spaces were actually dangerous for him. Several times I wasn’t sure he would be able to retreat from a place he thought to be his safe haven. We rearranged furniture and recently installed plywood panels to prevent Chester from entering behind Glenn’s bed. Glenn actually custom fit pieces and screwed them into the frame of his bed to block access behind it. Chester may not realize it but he is growing and I’m afraid that one of these days he’ll get back there and be unable to back out. It’s a very heavy old 4-poster king waterbed frame that’s been converted with box spring and mattress, but would take too long to disassemble if Chester got stuck. I don’t work well with power tools when an animal is distressed (or can’t imagine I would anyway).

When Chester’s preferences or behaviors change, there’s no smooth transition - it’s quick and unexpected. Awhile ago he decided he’d rather sleep (naps and overnights) in the basement with Glenn and Casey. We’ve always eaten lunch and dinner there but Chester and I returned upstairs shortly thereafter. At that time Chester still spent his days with me in my office or bedroom. A few times he even came to the kitchen on his own to see what “Mom” was doing, although he never stayed more than a minute or two. He now has no interest in going upstairs, at all, unless there’s a halter and leash involved.

Maybe Chester enjoys the television selection in the basement bedroom (nostalgia TV shows or Westerns) instead of my music and quiet reading. Even though his new dog bed and stuffed toys remain upstairs, Chester is content to spend time on the floor next to Glenn’s bed. Casey’s old bed is located on one side, the other side preferred because Glenn drops dirty jeans and shirt there overnight. Glenn placed a soft blanket next to the dirty clothes so there’s always a place for Chester to lay his head when the clothes go to the hamper.

Quick change artist? Houdini for sure. One day Chester preferred spending time upstairs with me. The next day the basement had became “his place” to hang out, day and night. This time it appears he’s not only packed an overnight bag, but maybe a large suitcase. On a daily basis he attempts to bring stuffed animal friends downstairs to his new digs. I suspect if he could manage it, the new dog bed would be dragged to the basement and strategically placed as well (at least I wouldn’t doubt it’s crossed his devious mind). I’ve only allowed a few toys in the basement at a time because his sister Casey would shred them, sooner than later.

Originally I was hesitant to let Chester remain in the basement because I really don’t want him to spend his days alone. He needs socialization and structure in his life, not isolation. So now I have a dilemma. My daily routine is rather boring, but I like it. I’ve finally settled into retirement and enjoy the perks. But, my daily activities are centered on being upstairs … my dream kitchen, the home office (where a 32 inch flat screen serves as a nice desktop monitor for the main computer), treadmill where I focus most of my exercise routines. Now Chester needs me in the basement and my life is upstairs. Damn!!

This time of year Glenn spends eight hours a day in his garage/woodshop. I can’t, and won’t ask him to stay in the basement to keep Chester company. Casey is always at Glenn’s side but having Chester in the garage isn’t an option. He would surely find the most dangerous hidey hole possible. Remember? Houdini.

Since we adopted Chester he and I have been practically inseparable … it works and we shouldn’t change it. I surely don’t want to disrupt what progress we’ve gained in four months.

So, it’s time for me to pack my bags as well. Time to relocate a few pieces of furniture and turn part of the basement family room into my (alternate) office space. Note: my grown kids are now laughing.

Here I sit, in my rocker/recliner … feet up … laptop pc on a tray in front of me … cell phone, water bottle, pen and note pad, TV remote and iPod dock on end table at my side. Apparently it’s all I need - except the dog who is watching me from the basement bedroom.

Halter equals "bye bye"

The last several days instead of walking Chester by himself, I've tethered the 2 dogs together for a walk. Glenn calls them the "C" dogs ... Chester & Casey. This morning the "C" dogs were hanging out together downstairs for awhile. When I went to the basement to get them, Chester RAN full out from the bedroom to the family room and stood in front of me at attention, barely able to contain himself. Any time he sees the halter, he's ready but this was beyond his usual level of excitement.

I'm trying to let Chester be comfortable in his environment, but not too comfy. He'd never leave his corner if we let him. We mix things up as much as possible without freaking him out (and he can get freaked out beyond anything I've ever seen). Today the dogs walked together, tomorrow I'll probably go back to solo walk with him, or maybe take them both for a car ride instead.

It's potty time

Okay, it's a silly play on words. But "potty time" at our house might be as amusing as a real party at someone else's place.

Casey (our other Golden Retriever) was extremely easy to house break. She spent the first six and a half weeks of her life with her genetic parents, a yearling brother and eight other siblings. The humans were a smart couple who built a very clever, practical den and baby bathroom out of plywood in the garage. The large nursery or den area was covered in blankets, puppy toys and nine puppies. It was built just the right height where momma dog could jump in and out of the place at will. The large area led to two smaller areas with openings just big enough for a puppy to enter. In those small "rooms" was a scattering of straw ... for potty use ... of course.

Whenever the pups were brought into the house, they witnessed their parents and older brother tap a paw at a bell at the back door to let the people know they needed to go outside. I'm sure they also tapped on the slider door in the process.

From day one when we brought Casey home, I took her outside to the back yard numerous times during the day and early hours of the morning. I kennel trained her and she was happy to sleep there at night. When she went outside to potty, I stayed with her, then I praised her and brought her back inside. Within a week or so, little as she was, she was putting her paw up to the slider glass door to let us know she needed to go outside. She had two accidents during those first few months and they were actually our fault. Besides, I'd swear her bladder is cast iron and about the size of a basketball. She doesn't seem to need to go first thing when she gets up in the morning. It takes her about an hour to be fully awake, then if you let her out she "patrols" the back yard for awhile first. You can almost see the wheels turning in her head as she walks around, sniffing everything in the yard, sticking her head through the openings in the lattice part of the fence to make sure everything out back is safe and secure. Then, all of a sudden it's like "oh, yeah, that's why I came out here, I needed to pee." She's never in a hurry to "do her thing" and she enjoys being out in the back yard by herself awhile in the process.

Fast forward a year and two months. Now we have a rescue dog who's approximately five years old living in the same household with Casey, who has the system down to a science. First of all, she's always with Glenn so when he has a desire, she makes it known to him. On the flip side Chester spent years living outside. He was then in foster care for 6 months in a home with a doggie door. As I've mentioned before, we don't have a dog door and won't install one because the house is for sale.

Chester doesn't let anyone know anything he wants. He will only let you know when he doesn't like something but Chester doesn't initiate any requests. So, I treated his bathroom needs as I had when Casey was a small puppy. Every several hours, I would leash Chester and put on my shoes, jacket or raincoat and we went to the back yard. Once out the slider door I released him from the leash and let him wander where he could have privacy if he wanted. Note: Casey requires privacy when she goes. If she catches you glancing her direction she'll give you a really dirty look. Chester doesn’t spend enough time out there to care. By the time anybody realized what he was doing, he’d already be back at the door waiting to go inside (where he belongs, just ask him).

After a few months of physically going outside with Chester every 3 or 4 hours for his potty breaks, I decided that he could go to the back yard by himself. He likes the food and toys here now so it's a safe bet he won't dig an escape tunnel. The next phase was to leash Chester, walk to the back slider door, unleash him and gently push him out the door towards the back yard.

Now, we don't even bother getting the leash. Every several hours I take hold of his collar, tell him it's time to go potty and I walk with him to the back door. I have to open and close the slider door very quickly because most of the time he circles and tries to get back inside.

Okay, for a dog who spent most of the last several years outdoors, he's understandably fond of the creature comforts of a warm house. Lately Chester has a favorite quiet corner in the basement, next to Glenn's bed. I put Chester out to potty just before bed time and he's good through the night. His basement corner is situated directly under a heater vent and usually has a soft blanket and a few toys in it, sometimes a chew bone. Generally the television is on, because he does watch it. Sometimes when Casey is there with him they enjoy the extra comfort of the bed itself. Good thing the bed is a king so there's occasionally room for Glenn too.

Chester enjoys his warm and comfortable house so much he really doesn't care to venture into the cold and wet back yard for anything, let alone bodily functions. He thinks that because he's an "inside" dog, we should provide better facilities for his needs. I bet if someone invented a real toilet that was practical for dog use, Chester would figure it out and actually use it.

Here's the scenario that plays out numerous times every day at our house. I walk Chester to the back door. As soon as I open the door and tell him to "go potty" he walks out but usually circles back to try to get back inside before I can shut the door. If I stand there and watch him, he will walk to the grass area just barely off the patio and make a small circle. Then he's back to the door, looking at me, sometimes smiling, hoping I didn't notice that he didn't even squat. I say "go potty" and he makes the same loop. Then I walk away from the door so he can't see me (but I can watch from the blinds in the next room). He goes to the yard and pees, then expects to be let in immediately. No fooling around for this one. When I open the slider door I have to be super fast again, otherwise he'll hit his head or bang his shoulders on it trying to get inside. A dog never knows ... somebody might want him to live outside again and he's not about to give up his cushy life.

Casey can patrol the back yard and watch out for her Dad. Chester's job is to lie in a warm corner,  watch TV, snuggle up with blankets and toys ... and look cute. They each do their jobs well.

A test of wills

Chester's Tales ... diary of a Golden Retriever rescue dog.

On Thursday I was surprised and a bit disappointed when Chester weighed in at only 68 pounds on the vet's scale. That's a good thing because it still means he's gained about 13-15 pounds since late September. But to me he looks heavier than that and his ribs don't show anymore.

This morning, on our walk, I was very glad that's all he weighs. I had just completed my normal workout on the treadmill but decided to take Chester for his walk before I cooled down.

We got across the street okay but then he balked - no particular reason, no one around, no strange noises in the area. He was testing my will. I'm surprised he hasn't figured that one out yet. He should ask our grown kids about Mom's determination. Shoot, he could have even asked his adopted sister Casey. She has stories from puppy obedience training with Mom that might curl Chester's hair.

Chester pulled back on the leash and halter trying to get loose. I grabbed his halter closer and pulled the other way. He planted all four feet, then turned around and pulled away the other direction. He squeezed his shoulders so tightly together he looked half his width (an escape trick that's previously been successful even with a snug halter). That's when I looked at him and said, "Okay, you want it that way?" Then I literally picked him up off his feet and put him on the grass and dragged him by the halter about 10 feet in the direction I wanted to go. We walked about 30 feet and he tried the process again (to no avail).

When he finally gave up and walked, it was the most beautiful walk he's ever had ... no unnecessary stopping, no running, no getting ahead of me. We are perfectly suited to each other for the length of strides and pace. He stayed by my side for the entire walk. Someone in his life, before his life as an abused puppy mill breeder, must have taken the time to walk him. He heels too well to know that from instinct. It's the most beautiful fluid motion.

Note to Chester: your new Mom is an old softy regarding food and toys. She pets you all the time and snuggles you and praises you even for small improvements. Mom will always let you win when you are legitimately frightened. She will even let you have your way when it comes to your new preference to sleep in the basement with Dad and Casey. What she won't do is let you hide in your corner comfort zone forever. You will have a full life with a variety of experiences. Now that you've proven to be capable of walking alone with Mom, that includes taking those walks. So, for now maybe you shouldn't gain weight too quickly.

Sixty-eight pounds isn't as easy to manhandle as you might think.

Going to the vet

Chester's Tales ... veterinarian visit report. I was wrong about his weight. Thought he'd be more than 70 pounds because he looks so filled out through his middle. He still has too much bone showing (shoulder blades and hips), but you can't see ribs anymore. Chester is officially 68 pounds (up from 50-55 when we got him). Doc says you can tell his hair coat is growing in more healthy and shiny because you can see some of the old hair on his sides.

I LOVE this vet. Edmund Sullivan, DVM of Bellingham Veterinary. He's been Casey's vet from day one and she likes him too, but I am even more impressed than I was before. This was Chester's first time at the clinic. He doesn't like strangers anywhere but being in a vet clinic with all the smells, etc. could have been traumatic. First of all when I scheduled the appointment I asked for a slow time of day to lessen the possibility of lots of other dogs. I told them that I understood they didn't have control of when other animals would show up, but they obliged by giving us a time slot when it's usually more quiet ... it was very quiet.

Doc said this type of rescue dog, one so fearful and unsocialized with people, is a full time job and commended us for adopting him. 

The vet came into the individual exam room with us and he sat on the floor (as he always does). Chester was under a small chair (amazing how such a long-bodied dog can squish himself into small spaces). I sat on the floor next to Chester. The vet sat across from us. We talked for 30-40 minutes because he wanted to know Chester's background (as much as we could tell him) and he wanted to observe Chester while we spoke. I told him I needed something for Chester's ears, they're not infected but he's starting to shake his head more than usual. He gave us the usual bottle of white cream stuff to put in his ears every day for 10 days and then once a week after that. We use the same stuff for Casey.

Then Dr. Sullivan did something I never expected. He said that he wasn't going to touch Chester today. Actually he did end up petting him to feel his hair coat as we were walking out of the exam room. He wants Glenn and I to take turns bringing the dogs to the vet office a few times a month (or weekly if we have time). He said bring Chester by himself and other times to bring him with Casey so they have a routine of getting on the scale, walking through the exam rooms and out the back hallway. The dog scale is literally just inside the front door of the clinic. Then when Chester is more comfy with the place we can walk him into the actual treatment area. Then when Chester is familiar with being there, we'll schedule a real exam for him.

The vet wants to make sure we're socializing Chester. He said that it's a bad thing to have Chester too tied to just me. I explained that Glenn is also a caregiver and since last week Chester prefers to spend his evenings and overnight in the basement with Glenn and Casey. Chester and Casey are beginning to bond more like siblings so it's a good thing he enjoys being down there with her. I also explained that we have 3 little girls who come pet Chester every week. He thought that was a great idea to get him accustomed to children too.

Doc said Chester looks very healthy ... can tell that he still needs to gain some weight but he sat watching Chester the whole time we visited. He noticed that Chester recognized his name when I referred to him by name. The vet said he can tell who Chester's primary caregiver is because of the way he watches me, especially when I'm speaking. (His loving eyes are a total giveaway, they're so full of happiness and trust). He asked about Chester's eating habits (and approves of the way we're feeding him. The dog food we buy is the same he buys for his dog. Like I said ... I love this vet and his methods of dealing with dogs is amazing.

So, you might be asking ... what was the charge for all this one-on-one time with the actual vet (not an assistant)? $24 including the medicine for his ears.

Oh, and when we told him about the process for adopting through Golden Bond Rescue of Oregon, he was very impressed. Thanks GBR for being there with just the right dog for us. We love him so much and he's a huge part of our family and our lives.

Anything you can do ...

"Anything You Can Do" is a song that  Irving Berlin composed for the 1946 Broadway musical, "Annie Get Your Gun". The lyrics include: "Anything you can do I can do better, I can do anything better than you."

That is Chester's resolution for 2013.

He began his progress early this year with a few ups and some downs, but today he did something I did not believe possible ... for a long time ... or maybe ever.

Chester and I took a walk, by ourselves, for about a block and a half. We would have made our usual entire circuit but there were about 5 people mulling around on the vacant lot at the end of the cul-de-sac. I hesitated at the top of the corner hill and when Chester noticed the people, he turned and headed home. He didn't panic and run in circles. He didn't stress out and try to escape the halter. He simply turned around and headed home.

Previously at his foster home (for about 6 months) Chester would only walk with other dogs. He had a foster dog brother, another Golden, who walked with him and his foster Mom. Although I originally wanted a dog to be my own jogging buddy, I had honestly put that desire on the back burner because I suspected Chester might always need moral support from another dog. Since he has been part of our family, he has never taken a walk outside our fenced back yard without Casey alongside. Taking family walks is fun but although Casey is much younger than Chester, she has learned to pace herself to Glenn's leisurely gait. Chester and I prefer a brisk walk mixed with a slow jog so we always end up having to wait for them. Chester tends to panic if he gets too far ahead of Casey.

This morning, after our normal routines, Chester and I were in the bedroom upstairs. He was lying on his bed watching TV and I was preparing to do some work on his book. I don't know what prompted me, but when I glanced down at him, he was watching me and smiling. I said "do you want to go for a walk?" He sat up. When I grabbed his halter, he walked towards me. I haltered him and double attached the leash to halter and collar and we headed for the front door.

Normally to Chester this sequence of events means a ride in the car, except that's usually put into action when I pick up my keys. Today I had plans to trick him ... and it worked.

It's cold outside, but for a change it's not soggy. We haven't taken the dogs for a good walk in awhile because I've been sick and the weather has been horribly wet and nasty. The dogs get exercise in the back yard and after dinner each night they have the opportunity to run and play in the basement.

Until a month ago Chester had to be dragged outside the house, except to the back yard. There was no way he was going through the front door, or to the car. Even when the four of us (Glenn and Casey, Chester and me) were going for walks in the neighborhood, Chester has always had to be coaxed to begin.

During the past month, I try to take him with me in the car whenever I'm running short errands. He loves riding and since he doesn't like getting out of the car, he stays in the back seat no matter how many stops I make along the way. Casey loves riding too, but she expects to go inside with you whenever you exit the vehicle. I don't like leaving Chester in the car alone for an extended period of time, but he seems very happy to ride anywhere and he's always good waiting for me until I return to the car.

This morning I had a plan and took a chance. After he was haltered and leashed we headed to the front door. Chester gladly walked outside, just knowing that we would stop at the car so he could jump in the back seat. Instead, as soon as we were off the stairs, I began jogging and he simply stayed with me. I kept going in the direction we always walk, at a jogging pace. By not letting him think about what we were doing, and by staying on a familiar course, Chester didn't have time to panic.  I was as surprised as he was, because it worked.

In order to make a change you have to take that first step. Sometimes it is difficult and you fail. Other times the hardest part is having the courage to try. Today Chester and I are singing "anything you can do I can do better" because we know this is just another step in the right direction. We will win this together.

Next hurdle ... a veterinary visit for a basic checkup and weigh-in on Thursday. You'll be surprised. Three months ago he was skinny and frail looking. Today I call him a "chunk". I can't wait to get him on an accurate scale and see what the vet has to say about our miracle dog.

I want to ride

Chester note: New stimulus ... pick up keys, dog gets up and approaches so you can halter and leash his body. Too funny because now even if I'm just going to check the mail in the cluster box down the street, he thinks we should be getting in the car for a ride.


Yay Chester, you're starting to think like a dog!!!

He's always loved to ride in a vehicle, not really particular which one. He's tried to enter strange vehicles in parking lots before. Chester doesn't care, he just likes to ride. The new thing is this timid dog asserting his wishes by approaching me to let me know he wants (or expects) to go. Now the tricky part, getting my keys without him seeing or hearing them. I have to make my monthly trip to Costco and there's no way I'm leaving him in the car for that long.

Apparently it's not just the keys and handbag that get his attention. When I dressed in jeans, a nice shirt, shoes and jacket he left his bed (where he spends most of the day) and followed me to the bedroom door. He knows I'm going somewhere even though the keys are already at the front door and out of sight and sound. Smart boy!! Looks like life is heading in a direction to be more interesting very soon.

Wish we could do more

We keep hearing from people that we're doing so well with Chester, or that Chester is making such good progress. Actually we don't know that we're doing all the right things and we have no clue as to whether it's necessarily the correct way to rehab a rescue dog. Is there a correct procedure? Are there proven guidelines other than time, patience and love? Each dog is unique and the trauma they faced would cause them to react in a variety of ways. I wish I had all the answers. 

Although we try to anticipate Chester's fear of some situations, at times we're surprised by his actual response. Last night I started working on a cross-stitch project. I was doing the prep work needed before actual stitching; washing the fabric, marking the pattern and spooling threads onto cards and labeling them with the appropriate symbols. As I raised a plastic bag of colored pencils, Chester jerked and looked as if he was going to run from the room. The bag crinkled a bit and the noise from the shuffling of pencils startled him. I stopped him from running and brought the bag down to him. I let him sniff the bag and its contents. Then I rattled it around a bit so he could equate the noise with the object. The next time I picked up the pencil bag, he flinched a bit so I brought it to him again and told him it was "okay". Later, when I needed to use the colored pencils, he simply looked up at me in acknowledgement. Conditioning. It works. My Dad would be so proud of me (personal moment).