Rosettes, training and sleepy-time for Rusty

Rusty is already doing so well with Averil, his volunteer puppy socialiser!

Here he is, proud recipient of his Good Citizen's Bronze Award...

These are awards from the Kennel Club, that we use alongside our own Puppy Star Awards, to help our puppies grow up to be well-behaved, happy little dogs. Rusty almost looks quite dignified, don't you think? Very proud of himself - as he should be!

Averil tells us: "Rusty passed with flying colours! Although it's hard work being that gorgeous and clever at the same time! He's such a tired boy now."

Yes, our puppies really do give their all, and so many of our pupdates show pooped pooches. Fortunately, Rusty has a wonderful, warm pillow. It's called Leo, Averil's own 11-year-old terrier, whom you've met before.

"That photo is my favourite," Averil says. "It's my boys having a snuggle!"

All together now: "Awwwwwwww!"

Averil's done especially well this time, by even providing a video of Rusty snoring...

He's doing so well because he gets little treats from time to time. The video below shows Rusty getting a reward for being a good boy.

And why the treats? Because they help our puppies realise that they don't have to bother people persistently for attention. They know that, if they do the right thing and wait, the treats - and praise, and a bit of a fuss - will come. It all helps to build the bond of trust between Averil and Rusty. Below you can see Rusty being rewarded for walking very nicely on his lead.

He's really doing so well, and we're all very proud of him.

You should be too! He's come this far because you've supported him. He's at the start of a long journey which will end with deaf person being helped to reconnect with family and friends, to leave loneliness behind and lead a full life. It's a great start too, so from all of us, thank you for sponsoring Rusty.