Time to just be me

Part of Toby's training is making sure that he is comfortable in different environments, and that he is comfortable around different animals. The home that is puppy raising him has adults and children - but also has four cats in residence and two adult dogs.

The two resident dogs are both SPCA specials that include Border Collie - so they are both smart and have a strong work drive. The cats are mostly SPCA specials with one Maine Coon thrown in for good measure - and they are relatively spoilt with absolutely no work drive. All six of them are helping Toby to learn how to socialise with other animals, and are helping him learn that other animals are not for chasing or annoying. Toby has the most fun playing with Dewey, as she is playful and will run around with him in the backyard.

For the last week or so Toby has also had a Labrador called Benjy to play with. Benjy was in training to be an assist dog with another organisation but lacked the drive to do the job so he now has the really important job of being a pet. Benjy has been another really great source of socialisation for Toby, and has enjoyed playing with Toby.

Play time is being carefully balanced with work time for Toby, and he is a really quick learner who is already impressing people with the commands that he knows. While he is still a playful doofus at times, he is also already well on the road to becoming a safe, and gentle companion for his little person and their family. Watch this space for more information about Toby and how his training is going.