1/7 Holidays!  Wow what a fun and neat time I had celebrating with my family.  I loved the tree - except when it first turned on cuz it was like being in an over stimulated disco.  I helped wrap presents, sniffed everything to make sure it was safe.  Anything interesting I brought out from the storage area so folks could see.  Funny how many things I find to bring out for show and tell.  I totally loved all the time we spent as a family snuggling, playing and just being together.  I actually found time to lie down and rest a second or two.  I am so full of boxer wiggles and kisses that you need a towel when you sit down.  I love to sit on laps too and on my brother - he doesn't seem to mind.  Slam the cat and I have a lot of hide and seek games - he is pesty.  I love running outdoors but have not been too impressed with the snow and cold weather.  Folks around here let us in and out as many times as we want so I can come in for some loving and then go back out to play.  I help clear the snow off the deck but no one will give me the shovel no matter how much I try to take over.  My favorite time of day is the morning when I get to have breakfast and evening cuz again I get fed.  I know where the food is stored - can open the container too.  I know where the cookies are and try to help myself - ya I know - "Arod down" is something I still hear alot.  The newest is "Arod unless you are going to wash the dishes, down" followed by "Thank you" and a rub.  I really do try to be good - I just love exploring.  Well off I go to see if there are any new things to bring out for show and tell.  Happy New Year everyone

12/4/2008 – Arod continues to do well in his foster placement.  He is full of boxer wiggles and kisses everyday.   Still very curious about life, so you need to be on your toes just like when a toddler is off and running.  He has improved in counter surfing but still has the longest reach of any dog I know.   When he does “win the prize”  however, he brings it to you like “See what I brought you – thought you might want it”.  In typical boxer fashion during the cooler weather, Arod prefers to be in with the humans – such a cute expression when he wants your  attention from outside.  Arod rides much quieter in the car and remains calm while we get gas or go through a drive thru.  That is an improvement.  He walks well on a leash and prefers the choker to the gentle leader – however, he is very strong so the gear depends on the circumstances.   Arod appears to be understanding of the oldest cat in the home – no longer twisting the chair to sniff her.  He avoids contact with the cats unless he is provoked by Slam,  the cat that thinks chasing dogs is a great way to spend some time.  Arod still loves his toys, but just like a kid, you need to remove some and produce some new ones (toy rotation) or he will become bored.   He is a very smart little guy – can open a closed gate or the dog food container if you don’t  ensure it is snapped closed.  He definitely figured out the  time schedule in the home and will let you know if you are running late.   Once the “energy” is expended in the backyard, Arod  will now settle down and look around.  He prefers to snuggle and appears to be more relaxed if he is the only dog on your  lap (not an easy feat with 5).  He is a very sweet boy who has come a very long way. 
 

10/30 Hey, it's me Arod.  Just checking in to let everyone know that life is good and so exciting.  I am learning to trust humans and even learning to control my high energy level.  My foster parents are patiently introducing me to obedience training.  I can sit faster than any dog alive!  I get a treat when I listen so that is even better.  I am learning to walk on a leash with a gentle leader - not my favorite thing but my foster parents tell me that I have calmed down a little and don't look like I am a wild horse on the end of a lead.  We took a drive to a state park and walked around a while.  I was so excited to see everything.  I was told we were very good boys for listening.  I was totally fascinated by the frisbee golf - loved watching the man toss the frisbee.  Good thing I didn't get a hold of it though because they don't last long with me.   My brother and I still keep everyone on their toes - but we enjoy hanging out with the humans and the best is when we get to share wiggles and kisses with them.  Although we  know to leave the cats alone, I can't help myself sometimes.  Slam is the biggest challenge because he does not back down - he even chases me!  I am told I am a good boy - just still very much a pup and still learning about what life should be.  Wet kisses t o everyone - off I go to chase my brother

8/12 Hello all.  Thought I would take a second to check in.  Life is great - with a few exceptions.  They took us for a ride last week and left us to stay over for two days while we were neutered.  Now we seem to have to stay in the crate a lot more than before.  However, me being the energized bunny, I manage to find things to do when they let us out for a little while.  I hear "leave it" "off" and "love you" a lot.  I am getting so I don't focus so much on the cats around here - even if they do just sit on counters and tables staring.  I'm learning to stop trying to eat the cat food - another leave it situation.