Ivy at work and at play

It's time for more Ivy!

Here you see Ivy learning the gentle art of heelwork.

Notice how Ivy is learning how to walk nicely alongside Guy, with the lead not too tight, and not too loose. Of course, she's still got that gangly puppy look, and she doesn't quite have full control over those legs yet, but her tail looks happy and that's the main thing. 

And how does Guy train her? It's all about treats!

This is because we use what's called 'reward-based training'. In this, Ivy gets a treat whenever she does the 'right' thing, in this case sticking close to Guy and focusing on him. The 'wrong' thing is just ignored. Being a Labrador, notorious for their love of food, Ivy has every incentive to get it right!

One day soon, she'll perfect the heelwork, and this means her eventual deaf partner will be able to walk along busy pavements with Ivy incredibly well behaved. 

More 'work' now - having plenty of puppy play in the classroom!

Even this is 'work' of a kind. Ivy is learning to play nicely with other dogs. She's also growing in confidence, learning that new experiences - including dogs, toys, classrooms - are to be enjoyed. It's all positive behaviour that we think will make her a fantastic hearing dog.

Another aspect of puppy class is helping Ivy get used to unfamiliar objects such as mobility scooters.

Her puppy pal is more interested in running around still, it would seem! Oh go on then Ivy, it's OK to have a bit of a play...

Perhaps Ivy is so relaxed and happy around other dogs because she has her 'bestie' Charlie at home? He's the pet dog of Heather and Guy, her Volunteer Puppy Trainers. He's also a Lab, so perhaps he thinks of Ivy as his little sister?

Although Ivy isn't quite so little any more!

It might not be too long before they can't share a bed. Until then, well, they just look so very cute all curled up together.

More pals now - Ivy with two other blacks Labs called Trent and Aisla. Honestly? We don't know which is which! They're all magnificent though, and you can clearly see how quickly Ivy is growing up to look more 'dog' and less 'puppy (although she'll always be a puppy to us).

Ivy also finds plenty of time to have a bit of fun with Guy...

... but then, eventually, has a bit of a well-deserved nap.

Could it be that Ivy is developed a boopable nose? We'll have to see!

In the meantime, let's just admire how lovely she is.

Lovely Ivy, doing so well with her training, through your kindness.

We hope enjoyed this latest insight into work and play (although it's really all play to Ivy). Thank you for sponsoring her!