We have done a few more “tests” for Gunner. We have had several get-togethers at our house with lots of people, kids running in and out, and food everywhere. Gunner handled it like a gentleman, well, almost. Gunner spent the meal going from guest to guest and then landed under the table. After the meal, I noticed that he had found something wonderful to roll in….before the guests arrived and I hadn’t noticed. I proceeded to take him outside and wash him off, which of course made it worse for a while. I apologized to my guests, including my mother-in-law who said, “I thought I smelled something while I was eating.” UGH! Gunner greeted each of the guests with his smile, though!
Test number two: outdoor cat. There is a neighbor cat that we see every day on our walk. Gunner has always been interested but never was challenged by the cat before. Well, this day the cat decided Gunner was on his turf. Gunner went into a stalking prey stance and I wondered what would happen next. The cat won. Only took a few moments for Gunner to decide it wasn’t worth it. So still not sure what he would do with a cat in the house. But we know that cats outside should be fine.
Test number three: babies. We had a visiting 9-month-old crawling around in our living room. Gunner was really only interested in the diaper and really indifferent to the baby. No problem there!
Test number four: water. We took Gunner to the river. The first time he was on a leash and he would retrieve a stick thrown in a short distance. The second time we went, the river was really low so it was safe to take off his leash. After cooling off a bit, he was ready to come out. In fact, instead of following our dog into the river, he would follow along the river bank, like he was saying, “Come back. That water is too deep!” So we don’t believe that Gunner desires lake life. However, I am quite sure that hanging out with you in the boat would make him very happy!
Things to consider with Gunner:
- He insists on a daily morning walk and likes some type of activity in the evening (only has to be 5 ball tosses and pattering around the yard).
- He loves people and would really prefer to have someone around most of the day, although not necessary. Must watch the counters, though, as when we have been all gone for a “long” period of time, there does happen to be some bread wrappers on the floor periodically. He may be a senior but can be quite nimble when he needs to be. He has never counter surfed when we are around.
- Recommend that he be let out at midday.
- Should be the only alpha dog in your house.
- He will need thyoid medication, twice a day.
- He gets a mild ear infection periodically but very easy to treat.
- Gunner will want to sleep in your bedroom, won’t be content unless he does.
- Loves balls and bones and treats.
- He needs his cuddle time in the evening. He pesters until you sit by him or let him on the couch to cuddle.
- He likes cushy furniture but will ask permission if you are sitting on it….most of the time!
- LOVES PEOPLE and he smiles a lot. A little smile if hasn’t seen you for a half hour and full blown, wrinkle every muscle, gotta sneeze kind of smile, for longer separations!
And did I mention…….he has lost 25#?!!!!! He now weighs in at a trim 85#. OK, so maybe not exactly trim, but almost! Please contact us regarding Gunner! :p
Running like the wind!
On the hunt
Looking with concern at the resident dog swimming in the river, "You are too far out, come back here!"
"Got cooled off. I'm coming back!"
Gunner and Kobi chilling after a run around the yard.
"I am so happy to see you!!!" This is Gunner's BIG smile.
Merry Christmas to the Senior Goldens from Santa 
