July 19, 2004
Dear Sue and Tim,
We wanted to let you know how Cooper is progressing. He’s a sweet, precious dog and we’ve grown to love him dearly – and believe he loves us too. He’s now gained a total of 20 lbs (85) and we’re sure it’s all muscle – a fine looking dog. In addition to spending a large part of his days playing with balls and toys, we go to a dog park everyday and play ball. We’ve learned to use two alternating balls for the best game and exercise! Between destroyed and lost balls we go through an average of 3-4 balls a day! He’s so amazing at catching balls. He jumps so high to catch balls that he’s often airborn and sometimes downright acrobatic in his landings. We’re amazed he doesn’t hurt himself. It’s unbelievable how limber he is.
Last week Cooper graduated from Obedience 1 and was voted by some to be the “most improved” student. He’s so smart and catches on to things so quickly, sometimes we wonder if he hasn’t done it before. He also has changed character drastically when it comes to being mister social. He still loves to be around other dogs but he’s become very attached to us and will usually take us over another dog. We guess he’s finally decided we are indeed his new pack. He’s improved in so many ways and settled in so well, he’s close to perfect. We also let him have the run of the house now when we’re gone. Except for toys and balls, he’s not the least bit destructive. We don’t have to worry about a thing. For a hyper-type working breed, he sure is mellow when it comes to pleasing people and making for peaceful times with other dogs. He wouldn’t hurt anyone, he’s very happy-go-lucky and go-with-the-flow, and very sweet and entertaining. Kisses come more often now and we can hug him when he’s not in his gigged-up mood.
I think we told you that we had challenges with car rides and we were convinced that he was used to a station wagon or SUV because of the way he sat backwards in the car. I did trade in my car on a station wagon and he’s much happier in the car now. Actually, he’s much better now no matter which car we take.
Sorry, we still haven’t gotten our scanner fixed, but we’ll send a new picture soon.
Thanks again for allowing us to have Cooper in our lives.
Joyce and Bob
P.S. Bob broke down and lets Cooper sleep on his bed – they have bonded
superbly.