#nellie

I am watching my dad’s dogs and Nellie has a very hard time with fireworks. In the past she has hidden behind the couch or in the basement, but in recent years as she’s become more thunder phobic, as well, my step-mom has been able to convince her that being under the covers is safe. I think this is generally a better way for her to cope (+traz) than going off alone.

She and Keeso are improving in their relationship lately but I don’t think he would tolerate her sharing the bed with us. I’m not in the mood to push things and moderate heavily this stay. He’s been crated the past couple of nights so I don’t have to be vigilant and the girls can come and go as they please. Tonight the they wanted to be in my dad’s room and I thought I’d try closing the door to my bedroom so Keeso could be out. We were settled in bed all cozy until a few minutes ago.

Then a bad round of fireworks started going off and I could hear Nellie pacing around outside the door. I told Keeso I was sorry, and just kind of asked him if he’d please go in the crate another night. I gestured at it and gave him a smooch. I swear to god he heaved a sigh and jumped off the bed to go in the crate.

He almost never goes in the crate when I simply ask because he associates it with my departures. Usually I don’t ask at all and just do a casual “sorry bud” and collar-walk him in there for a milk bone.