Firsts

We have had Della, our Bassett Hound puppy, one week now.  That makes her ten weeks old.  She has had a lot of firsts during this time at the Peterson residence.

She met Bill, Mike's brother and family renowned dog whisperer.  He obviously won her over.  

She met her vet for the first time.  Her vet was so impressed with Della's cuteness that she added a picture of Della to the vet instagram account.  Well, actually, I made the suggestion and I think they felt obligated to humor me.  Anyway, Della and the vet did get over 100 likes.  

Della went on her first 1.75 mile walk once we got our vet's blessing.  Della did her best to lead the pack.  

Still, she was able to pause along the way to attack, or play, with the other dogs.  

She kept her focus though.  She kept walking. 

And she make it home in time for her mid morning nap.  A nap that was longer than normal which was a fact greatly appreciated by the rest of us, humans and dogs, alike.  For this very reason, Della's walks have become a daily occurrence.  

However, as a result of her first walk, she received her first bath with us.  On her walk, she fell into the mud by the septic tank.  For the record, Della did not like her bath.  And Mike has not walked her near the septic tank since.  

Despite the stress of adjusting to a new home, I am pretty sure Della is feeling loved and safe here.  According to Dr. Coren on the Petmed website, dogs sleeping on their sides with their legs extended means that a dog is relaxed and comfortable and shows a level of trust with her surroundings.  Clearly, Della feels all that based on this picture.  (Apparently she is so relaxed and trusting here, that she is sliding out of bed. ) 

All in all, I would say Della's first week in her new home has gone very well.