Cody's come a long way already!

I just wanted to post a few updated photos of our dog Cody...he has come a long way in just a few days. He seems to really enjoy being with us lately. He spends less time hiding in his crate, and more time hanging out with us. He spends all morning in the school room with the kids and I, and when the family is gathered in the family room, he's right there beside us laying on his fluffy pillow! He is still quite fearful, but he's learning to trust and love us.

We had a specialist come to the house yesterday. What a difference she made! She gave us a lot of great hints and tips on how to make Cody adjust to his new life with us. It may take months though since he was severely neglected where he came from. We are now hand feeding him rather than using a bowl. By doing this, he will learn that good things come from us, not his bowl. He also is enjoying treats now...something he never had until now. His favorites are the large size Milkbones! It's a riot to hear him eating...he's got no manners. hee hee The kids think he's funny!

These photos should show you a big difference from the previous ones...

Cody and Sweet-Pea in the school room...


Taking a walk with his buddy, Lionel...


Enjoying his pillow in the living room...


That didn't last long...he's so content, he fell asleep!


In case you're wondering about the harness and leash...the harness is so he doesn't back out of his collar and get loose. The leash indoors is for us to tug at if we want to encourage him to come with us. This way we don't have to scare him by suddenly touching him or lifting him up. It's worked wonderfully so far, so much so, that we only had to use it 2 times today. He's been very obedient and has come when we called him the rest of the day.

It's so exciting to see him improving each day. Hopefully months from now we'll look back and won't even remember how scared, timid, shy and afraid Cody was!!! We're still working on his tail...he has yet to wag the thing. Poor guy. We also have no idea what his bark sounds like since he's not made a peep. I personally like it that way, but the kids are anxious to hear it. I'm sure someday he'll surprise us. For now we're just giving him attention, treats and a whole lot of love!!!