“As you predicted, our lives have been drastically changed becoming the proud parents of two very lively pups. Can I just say that the first day was nothing short of hellish!  We have been accustomed to older, sedate dogs w/reasonably good manners. These adolescents  have a lot to learn.

The boy panted so heavily and so incessantly all day Sat. that we really thought he was sick. (In hindsight, it was terrible anxiety and we still think doggie Xanax could be a good thing.) He continued to whiz at even the slightest situation that disturbed him which makes it merciful that I have tile through most of the house. But both learned the doggie door quite easily. They have ravenous appetites and scour the countertops for anything edible but must be fed separately which is a whole procedure in itself (mostly because Zoey can open interior doors!)  Both are slobs when it comes to the water bowls and I can attest that slobber on tile is slippery!

Understandably, they both wanted to explore every nook and cranny of the yard and house while we carefully and wearily monitored their activities in 99 degree heat.  After nearly 10 hours of being constantly on guard that first day, we wondered (with no small amount of fatigue) what night would bring. Amazingly, our boy took to a small love seat in the bedroom which has always been a dog bed and the girl slept on the floor by the bed. Everything was blissful until Bill had to use the bathroom when bedlam ensued. We got rearranged and had a pretty good first night.

Incredibly, Sunday and Monday were markedly different. No pee inside, more contentment throughout the day (albeit with periods of rough-housing that has already destroyed a few items in my lovely interior.)  What’s more, we are seeing true personalities emerge … which is perplexing us re: naming.

The dainty precious has a willful streak and is a real tease to her brother who while a block head is actually more obedient. She is very vigilant about noise and where we are. This boy is sweet, lovable but a bit unruly. He hasn’t had any leash work but is eager to please. Both are insatiably curious at this age and put everything in their mouths–leaves, carpets, shoes, plastic bags–seriously, I mean everything!

We think Rufus is a good name for him and probably Zoey for her, but are still a bit undecided as we see them evolve.

Thanks for making this possible.  It is wonderful to once again have paw prints in my house and lots of wet kisses while I’m on the toilet (remember what I said about Zoey opening doors!) In any event, Bill and I want to express our appreciation for the good work you do at the rescue and especially for encouraging us.  While taking a pair has been (and will continue to be!) lots of work, we are absolutely in love w/them and they seem very happy with their lives.

Enjoy the photo attached. It isn’t up to Doug’s quality but it was one of the few quiet moments where we could snap a shot.  Feel free to post on the web site: we are very proud to be supporters of GDRNC.”