Folklife Festival

Yesterday I took Mona to the Folklife Festival at Seattle Center. I used to take her out on the bus and to business districts in the city regularly. Living in the U district, I had a busy street to visit all the time. I haven't taken Mona to Seattle Center, let alone to a really crowded festival in years. She did really well. We have worked out pretty good communication so I could steer her a little bit on the leash, sometimes giving a lot of line for her to forge ahead, and other times keeping her close to my side to protect her.

I could tell she enjoyed being out because she pushed the limits a few times, and also laid smiling and panting on the grass with us. She ate some gyros that fell on the ground. That's the best treat ever, I'd say. Dry, salty, meaty. She broke the belt loop I had tied her to, straining for the gyros. That was the only acting out she did. She visited with people sitting near us and made friends all around. Twice people kindly tried to help bring her back to me after she wandered 10 feet or so, but when I called her, she came before they could reach her. She lingered long enough for me to say, "Right now!" and then some, but moved just as the stranger came within reach. This is the kind of behaviour that screams manipulative bitch. She is always on top of the important issues, though.

There were at least 4 intact male pit bulls. what are these people thinking?? Mona was appropriate with all the other dogs there, of course. Many folks liked her, telling us about their border collie at home. One commented that she didn't seem very stressed out. A booth vendor had water out for dogs. That's always nice. I taught Mona to drink from fountains early on. I had taken her into the Center House to the fountain, and she had that weird reverse sneezing thing after drinking. I think she feels weird drinking from a bipedal position. So a bowl on the ground was nice for her. We hung out so she could take a couple relaxed drinks and not ahve to hurry. You know a booth that flags you down to share their dog water likes dogs!

All in all, I really enjoyed having Mona there. I wish I had the energy to bring Daphne,
but I just don't. I have worked hard to be single-handed with Mona and Kayleigh (my 6 years old daughter). I have to pack hats, coats, an umbrella, water, bags, snacks, and a leash. It would be a great experience for Daphne. I have not even taken her on the bus. With her fear of slick flooring, and submissive social position, she might need a lot of looking after to help boost her confidence and make it a positive experience for her.

I am still looking for a home for Daphne.