Vesper's growing!
Posted by Brendan Cooper
Let's meet some of Vesper's relatives!
They're all hearing dogs, and they're magnificent...
From left to right we have Vesper, then her mum Nellie, then half-brother Forrest at the back (who is also a sponsor pup), then half-brother Flash (whom you've already met and who is Forrest's brother), then half-sister Tia.
Have you memorised all that? We'll be having tests later.
What a great family get-together! And isn't it amazing how much Vesper's grown since your last update?
More family fun below...
This was taken at Vesper's favourite park, Cassiobury in Watford, one of the top ten parks in the UK and very popular for dog walking. She is being chased by Flash and Forrest. "She loves being chased," volunteer puppy trainer Debbie tells us. "She will often start the chase by running up to dogs and bouncing in front of them until they run after her."
Meanwhile back in training, this is Vesper at puppy class.
Debbie explains what's going on above: "She is practising her waits, which she has become very good at. However she does love to play, so doesn't always stay still for long, especially if one of the other dogs move. I'm sure she'll get there soon."
We're sure too. She's a great puppy and we have high hopes for her.
Back to Debbie: "This is Vesper's very first visit to the beach. She was straight in there and had no fear even when big waves crashed over her. She just shook herself and went back for more."
Brave Vesper! Just going for it. Doesn't she look happy? Ears up, and a huge silly smile on her face.
She also had a great time at the Mince Pie Mingle, which is a special Christmas party held for all our lovely volunteers.
Debbie laughs: "She got to meet many people and dogs. She was very happy to meet up with Father Christmas to tell him what a good girl she'd been. He must have believed her, as she got plenty of presents. She was quite happy to sit with him, I think she
just wanted to make sure she was on his nice list."
Definitely not his naughty list! She's definitely not pouting or crying, that's for sure.
Back to Debbie: "Vesper is very good at settling when out and about. In this photo she is sitting under the table in the local pub after having fun at the beach."
This is such a great photo because it shows how well Vesper is coming along. Our volunteer puppy trainers do such a fantastic job, and Debbie has clearly helped Vesper realise that, in public places such as pubs, restaurants and cafes, all she has to do is settle down patiently. She's just happy watching the world go by, because she knows she's being a good girl and she'll get a fuss and a treat in good time.
And that's our Vesper! She's doing so well and loving life, because you have supported her. From all of us, thank you for sponsoring Vesper!