As most of you know we got Hot Shot a year and a few month ago. His breeder took him back from an abusive situation and asked us to give him a home and family. He was a "scaredy dog" for sure. Scared of loud noises, thunder, men, sudden movements, water, just about everything. We have spent the last 15 months loving him and getting him to a point where he feels safe. One thing we have not been able to accomplish is getting him into a vehicle. He came in one but would not allow us to load him. We didnt want to force it. When I had to get a different vehicle last spring, we decided to get a van so both the boys could ride and load easily. LOL! Rocky loves it but we have not convinced Hot Shot to go until this week.
As I mentioned in the health section, Hot Shots ears were bothering him so we had to get him to the vet. We knew we were going to have to get a check up soon anyway but now there was no more putting it off. Our vet tech knew how concerned I was about being able to get this huge dog in the van if he didnt want to go :). She told me to come get something to give him to make him happy and take the edge off. She assured me it would not knock him out (that would not do). We gave him the happy drug and within 10 min he was in goofy land.
We still had to man handle him some to get him in but we decided to let Rocky go too and that seemed to help, Hubby and I were so excited to get him in the van and he laid right down. Trip to vet was a good one, he got lots of lovin rubbin and treats. When it came time to load back up he just got right in, lol, after we told the tech we might need her help. When we got home he got out, walked around to the other van door and got back in and laid down. We laughed so hard wish we had a camera....he would get out and get back in several times before I got all doors closed :) At this point we are thrilled but he is still under the influence.
NOW for the break thru!
When I got home from work last night, I pulled up the drive, both boys came to greet me just like they always do. I stayed in the drivers seat opened the side door next to me and Rocky jumped in. Hot put his paw in but wouldnt jump in. I got out, patted the floor of the van and said "C'mon Hot lets go!" and he jumped right in! WoooooHooooo! I shut the door we went for a short drive around the neighborhood, he looked out the windows. Then he and Rocky laid down and enjoyed the ride. When we got home I opened the door and out they went waggin tails and turnin circles, lol! I dont know who was happier me or them. Hubby had gone to town so I called him immediately and he got excited too. Looks like now both the boys can take rides to town with us! Yea!!!!! All this without drugs!
Do you think this is what people mean when they tell us we need a life??? LOL! It doesnt take much to make us happy at our house!