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Winston the Service Doodle Update!

I know, I know...It's about time!!

Well, here you go. A very picture heavy, explanation light catch-up post.

Our handsome boy at five months old! He's a year now, can't believe it!

Kit loves her matching necklace!

Helping Kitty Bitty through a thunderstorm.





He whizzed through Puppy Two class at only 7 months old!





Story time and snuggles.



Just dozing at IHOP.

Snuggling on Mama's feet watching Kit jump at a bouncy house park.

Winston's "You gonna give me french fries?" face.
The blue strap across his nose is something many people ask about. It is called a "Gentle Lead". It is exactly like the bridle on a horse's face, but without any kind of mouth bit. The lead goes around his muzzle and be hind his ears where it clips securely, but he can still eat, drink, yawn, and bark if necessary. The leash clips on under his chin and allows me easy and gentle control over his head. If he is going too fast or ahead of us, I just gently pull the leash back a bit and his head turns, he gives his attention to me by checking in with my eyes, and if I need to give an addition command, such as wait or sit, then he is ready and willing. I do not like having to give correction with a leash attached to his collar as I believe he has a soft throat, plus I don't feel it is as quick or natural to get his attention. And this sweet gentle boy has no need for any kind of prong or choke collar, he is smart and eager to please.

Watching Kit ice skate!
Then running to the car in the cold wind and snow!

I love it when she "shares" her song book with him at the Kingdom Hall.


"In Mah pretty pink 'muddle boots'!"

Helping Kit feel comfortable at the library with other kids and grown ups around. When she needs a little extra space so she is sure not to get accidentally touched, he provides a soft and fluffy barrier.
Helping her wait in line in a new place!

We were able to take two family trips in two months. We looked at over a dozen houses in four days. Before that, Victor and I were able to go to Hawaii for six nights for our anniversary. And major meltdowns are at an all time low. When we visited a new congregation in Branson, Kit even talked and hugged, yes hugged!!! another little girl there, and proudly announced that she had made a new best friend! 

Winston has changed our lives! And chewed up most of our shoes. But that is as much our fault as his, I'm constantly telling the kids to put them away, but we all forget sometimes. Anyhoo, he's doing great, Kit is doing pretty great too, which means life is just a little smoother. 

You can follow Winston on Instagram @Winston-the-servicedoodle! 

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