We got a late start this morning - recovering from a cold. Out for a long walk this morning and a short walk before our outings this afternoon.
First we stopped at the pet store to pick up a bag of biscuits and weigh Buddy for the monthly progress report. He has gained three pounds since two weeks ago (60 pounds now). It's also a good opportunity to work on human/canine distractions and socialization. Buddy met a little chihuahua and we let them frolic for ten minutes. The kids with the chihuahua thought that they were "best friends that just met." Buddy was very clam and gentle with the little dog.
After some gift shopping, we headed to the mall for more human distractions. Walking the mall, Buddy seems really bored. Kids yelling and screaming don't even phase him. I thought the biggest distraction would be the food court with its mine field of tempting treats. However, today we met not one but two other service dogs. Initially when Buddy saw the dog(s) he sprang to attention and I considered avoidance to be the plan. I didn't want to distract the other dogs, however, I relented and walked Buddy past the dog. The "real" service dog didn't even flinch and Buddy walked past without incident with a lot of verbal coaching.
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