Day 4 - Road Trip!

All ready for our road trip today! She got exercise before we left and toys and a stuffed Kong for the car ride.

I like to have her travel in the crate because it's the safest way for her to travel and it keeps her out of trouble. She is excellent at riding in the car in her crate and she was very easy to travel with.

We took lots of breaks to use the bathroom and to do training along the way. Because she is not fully vaccinated yet I'm careful not to take her to areas where dogs I do not know have gone to the bathroom. Her risks of contracting something are pretty low if precautions are taken. On the other hand, the risk of behavior issues that could occur if she is not properly socialized is pretty high.

 So we spent time just letting her take in the world. It's nice that she is such a brave girl. It makes the socialization process so much easier.

Finally we arrive and there was a ton of new things to explore, including new service dog puppies. I learned some really valuable things about Mollie too. Despite our training sessions along the way and things to entertain her in the car, this was a day where she clearly did not get enough exercise. The combo of that and the overstimulating environment showed me some of her behaviors that we need to work on. She was easily frustrated and pretty mouthy where she hadn't been over the last several days. It was definitely time for her to run!

 So this morning she can run!

And Play!

Sniff and do other doggie things.

 And we can work on her skills like a quick head turn when I call her name even when she's playing with her friends.

And practice her recalls (coming when called). Her behavior is much more agreeable when her exercise and mental stimulation needs are being met. Now off to work some more on her leash skills.