Elton: Flowers, running, portraits and Polly

It's time for more Elton!

We decided to go through Elton's photos recently, just as part of spring cleaning, and realised there are several themes that emerged. So, we thought we'd share them!

First up, Elton does love a run. We noticed this in him even when he was very small.

His ears also do a great job of keeping him on the straight and narrow.

He could also run and carry his toy at the same time, a bit like patting your head and rubbing your tummy.

As he grew, he didn't really slow down.

He just got a bit bigger (actually, quite a lot bigger, very quickly) and faster!

After a while Elton started to look very sleek. These photos were taken by his Volunteer Puppy Trainer David, who is a very talented photographer. He's really captured Elton's grace here, don't you think?

And look, Elton's ears still did that cute thing!

Elton also loved running around with Polly, David and his wife Sally's own pet dog. Have you ever seen two more joyous pals? They look so glossy and happy and healthy.

Which brings us neatly onto Polly!

David and Sally made sure little Elton was very gently introduced to Polly.

This is how all our training is done. It's all at the puppy's pace, taking their time, making sure they're happy to progress. It's how they grow up to be confident around other people and animals, even in busy towns and on public transport. They know everything's going to be OK because they've seen it all before - and even if they haven't, new experiences are to be enjoyed.

It didn't take long before Polly and Elton became the firmest of friends.

A lot of our volunteers tell us that their own dogs enjoy a new lease of life with a playful puppy around. It's lovely to see, and the puppy learns so much from their older, wiser friend.

Although sometimes the puppy can be so playful, the older, wiser friend needs a bit of a break!

Polly and Elton shared everthing - toys...

... warm, sunny places...

... even large ferny spaces!

From Polly to portraits now. David does a fine line in puppy portraits, really capturing Elton's character, whether a lovely profile...

... a dramatic backlit scene...

... glancing off-stage right, contemplating his future training journey...

... or doing a very cute head-tilt!

What do you think Elton's thinking there? Leave a comment with your suggestion!

So that's running, Polly and portraits. Now, the flowers.

We've noticed that Elton seems to like being around them. He does seem to suit them, doesn't he?

From being a puppy, as he grew, he always seemed to be near them.

Even indoors!

Here, Sally is training Elton to be a good, well-behaved dog in public places. And look - more flowers! How does he do that?

Whether it's in front of a host of daffodils...

... or looking lovely among the bluebells...

... give Elton some flowers and he's a happy chappy!

He's happy because he's been so well brought by David and Sally, and this has also all been made possible through your generosity in sponsoring him. So, until your next Puppy Pen, thank you so very much for your support!