Hannah is a lovely dog and we really enjoy having her in our family.  When we picked her up in July we knew we had some work ahead of us.  This is still an ongoing process.
 
I have attached some pictures of Hannah from the cottage, at home and a couple with her little buddy, Cookie the cat.  Cookie rules the roost, as you can see by their together shots.  Cookie has the prime snoozing spot, however, Hannah doesn't seem to mind.  She is also good with my daughter's dog, Meri, when she comes over.  
 

I have made some contacts with the ARPH association and in fact we went on a bounce with them in the fall.  26 other Aussies...can you imagine.  Hannah mingled with the other dogs but was very shy.  We learned quite a lot about the breed and what we can expect from a dog who has a history like Hannah.  Australian Shepherds are a naturally reserved breed and take awhile to warm up to people.  Some take longer than others.  One lady from Perth had a young male who she pointed out was as skittish and nervous as Hannah.  It took her approx. 1.5 years for him to be comfortable and remember that he was a dog.  Another woman from Almonte has had a rescue female for quite awhile.  She still is a little jumpy and has a few odd quirks. 

Hannah loves going for walks.  We go 4-5 times a day.  My husband takes her on her early morning  (5am) and her night time walk.  Leash walking is a breeze with her.  I have had her off leash a few times.  It was funny when it snowed.  It took her 3 days to get used to walking in the snow.  There is no problem now.  Usually dogs like to lead when they go for a walk.  Hannah is always a few paces behind.  She is starting to trust me more because at times she will be about a step ahead of me.  This is new.  If I look at her or talk to her she sort of falls back.  Sometimes, it appears that she doesn't want us to see her having fun. 

She is very docile and will let you groom her with no problem.  Her memory is great and recall is terrific.  She is funny too.  Treats are her weakness.  If you surprise her when she has a treat or a chewing stick she sticks it in her mouth like a cigar and trots around looking for a good spot to lay down.  Too cute.  When I come home, I can see her wagging her stump and doing her dance.  I open the door a bit and she peeks out, then she disappears to her bed.  Having said that, Hannah seems to be happy and we are making progress.  I am glad that we were lucky to have found her and will do our best to give her what she needs.
 
I will keep you posted on her progress.
 
I hope you and all the staff/volunteers at the shelter have a Merry Christmas and find lots of good homes for all the furry little creatures that come through your doors.
 
Charlene

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