Post by {{helena}} on Nov 7, 2008 13:12:50 GMT -5
A rush of heat and humidity hits me as I walk Dylan into the room. He flares his nostrils, inhaling the weird smells that surround him. I walk Dyl over to the holding rack and tie him up. He stands still, but looks curious and watches me intently. As I walk over to the pool to check it and adjust the ramp, a wave of tiredness overcomes me. I feel like I am going to fall into the pool I am so dammed tired. I shake my head, trying to get out of it, and continue working on the ramp. Once it is all in order and at the proper incline, I walk back over to Dylan and untie him. I walk him around the perimeter of the pool first, so he can get a good look at it. I want him to get used to the reflections of himself as well as all the lights as such. He eyes the pool wildly, but does not fuss. I lead him around in both directions so he can see everything. Eventually, he seems somewhat desensitized and I walk him toward the ramp. First, I take the water in a cup and pour it on his legs. I want him to get used to the temperature and the sensation of being wet. Even though he has been hosed off, it’s not the same as swimming. He doesn’t startle when I begin to splash water on his lower legs, so I figure he’s ready. He has done this before, when her was two years old. I just want to be safe. I am taking all the precautions I can. I walk him up to the head of the ramp and urge him to step in. He hesitates and lowers his head to sniff the water, but takes a few steps into the water. He is about up to his knees now. I continue to egg him on until he is all the way in. I don’t rush him, though. I give him time to get used to the water temperature. Once he Is all the way in, I begin to lead him around the pool. He swims well, pushing powerfully from behind and paddling strongly with his forelegs. I have him go around to the left a few times and then I turn him and send him to the right. After about 20 minutes of swimming, I lead Dylan out and take him outside to dry off.