Rylie Elizabeth

Gotcha Day! So hard to believe that it’s been a year. And what a year it has been. I look back and without a doubt we have made huge progress in our journey together. I say together because you are aware that I was so lost when Dylan passed and knew that I wanted and needed to help another not realizing that I too- needed help. And when I think back, we have come a long, long way! Food guarding- still have that but it really is the least of the issues. Still guarding locations but tremendous progress. Guarding things- We eliminated much of it during our intense therapy sessions in the garden last year where Rylie learned “mine” (as in mine not yours). Now we are back in the garden a year later having so much fun and I have my helper without having to worry about trying to pull a weed and hearing a “rumble”. Touch sensitive- some, but she is now so affectionate, always wants and seeks hugs and kisses. She is now crate trained (again)- this was a struggle, but now (after she already ate the couch and blinds), she is acting like a lady and the crate is used for house cleaning, especially the evil vacuum and mop, strangers, etc. She is no longer crated during the day when I am at work but either me or her Nanny check in daily and once in a while she makes a mistake and eats her entire bed.

We walk 3 miles a day and Rylie is the typical Vizsla celebrity around town. Still working on the running but we have some polishing up to do with leash manners. I can’t wait! And of course she displays the clownish behavior as Vizsla’s do and is endlessly funny. Smart as heck! She has several baby dolls that were given to her by friends. We named them once and she knows them immediately. And for some reason, “Lillian”, “Genevieve”, and “Ray” are the only dollys that have been spared amputations and/or the death sentence. 

I already knew how important the decompression period is and that trust is everything. Stephanie- I am so thankful that you trusted me with Rylie. I love her so much and have so many plans for us. Through all the phone calls, emails, laughing, frustration, you were there to guide me and I am forever grateful to you and Long Island Vizsla Rescue for your help and for all you do for these deserving animals. 

Please excuse the not so good photos as Rylie really does hate the camera. It is difficult to get her smiling as she will literally run the minute she sees my phone. Sadly some of her photos look like she is being held against her will but I promise you she is not! Rylie hates the phone/camera but continue to do my best to sneak in a few shots.

Laurie