Anyone who’s trained a puppy knows the “firsts” are always a time for celebration and joy … the first time he “asks” to be let outside … the first time he plays all by himself … the first time he poops outside instead of on the carpet. These are all small victories on the road to a happy, healthy, well-behaved dog.
Enzo’s journey of late includes training to do his business beyond the small courtyard of the house. Rising early, we’re putting the leash on him and taking him beyond the gate. Our first effort did not produce any good results. He managed to get in a good walk while “holding it” and did his business the moment we got home.
The next morning, however, we had barely reached the neighbor’s yard when he squatted and piddled on the sidewalk. Victory as, masked by clouds, the sun began to rise as if it were cheering us on.
We walked a bit more so he could get used to the leash and his new routine. As we strolled the brilliant purple flowers of the Texas sagebrush plants provided a colorful palette for another morning stroll image. It was a new day.
DAY TWO: In an attempt to repeat the small victory, I decided to man the leash today solo. It started out well. Enzo explored the smells near the pavement and we both enjoyed another stunning pink, sky-on-fire sunrise.
But day two was not to be as far as small victories are concerned. After a nearly quarter mile walk on his tiny little puppy legs, Enzo arrived home and even refused to moisten the ground in his standard spot on the courtyard. Perhaps he was still empty from his rare 2am (!) excursion outside to relieve himself. In the words of Scarlett O’Hara, “tomorrow is another day.”
There’s a whole world out there waiting to be explored. Celebrating the small victories is one of the most joyous parts of life’s journey.
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