This is Sam’s page.
Sam is a 12.3 lb Tibetan Spaniel mix that I got from the Humane Society of Silicon Valley (HSSV.) As of today, I’ve had her (and forgive me if I refer to her as a “him” occasionally — I had male cats for years) for about thirteen days.
Sam is the first dog that I’ve ever owned. This will be an adventure to see if I can turn her into the dog that I envision: a Canine Good Citizen. We had our first training class together Tuesday night and she did pretty good considering that we started a week late (that darn Hwy 85 traffic!)
Sam currently has two issues: one physical and one behavioral. She has Luxating Patella’s. Her knees tend to slip out of joint. It doesn’t seem to bother her at all (remember, she likes to run!) but it gives her an endearing little hop-along gait.
Sam’s other issue is a little more worrisome: She doesn’t like my girlfriend’s Basset Hound. Due to my inexperience, I am moving forward quickly on this to get professional help. Sam snarls at the Basset and, if the Basset doesn’t back off, will lunge at her. I came between them a few days ago and felt teeth on my hand. Yikes!
The behaviorist will be calling me this weekend to talk about Sam.
In every other way though, Sam is great! She’s affectionate, seems to like people, seems to like most other dogs (will approach them) and seems trainable so far.
March 22 — Update on Sam. Behaviorist said in January that Sam just doesn’t like Sophie. Well, that relationship (Sam and Sophie — not Sam and behaviorist) has gotten a little better. I take Sam out 2-3 times a week to meet other dogs and she seems to be getting better. She has actually played with Sophie. I think more exposure to Sophie helps.
Sam exploring the coastal cliffs
