You would think they have known each other for ages they get along so well.  We have no kids or other pets so it’s just them and the 2 of us. 

     Apollo is such a fun character.  He’s so sweet and makes all kinds of noises when he yawns or stretches. He likes to cuddle but also likes his own bed to sprawl out in.  he’s just started coming into bed to cuddle for a few hours each night before he goes to his bed and dream of chasing squirrels.  He’s so prey driven he loves running around in the back yard looking for squirrels.  When he gets hot he hops in the pool for a few laps to cool off. I have to watch them every time I let them out because he will end up in the pool whenever he wants if I’m not there.   He knows some basic commands but we’re working on his manners.  He pulls a little on leash and will try to lead rather than heal.   He has mastered auto sits when I stop or at crosswalks so he’s learning will just take a little more work.  He’s stolen a throw pillow or 2 but I think we’re past those outbursts too.  He’s really easy going, no issues with behavior, food or training.

      Kali (now Luna) is such a lover.  She always want to cuddle and give kisses.  She’s a ball of energy and always wants Apollo to play and chase her.  Sometimes he complies, but her energy levels are much higher than his.  She’s been learning how to swim and it helps burn a lot of that puppy energy.  She’s pretty good on a leash.  Took a few weeks working with a pinch collar for her to understand how things work but she gets it now.  She’s very quick to learn auto sit and heal.  They love to take naps and cuddle.  She likes to sleep in the bed legs to the sky like a dead insect she’s very comfortable here.  Again no issues with food or behavior at all.  Neither one of them has any food aggression which is great.

      These 2 makes shepherds 4 and 5 for us so we’re fairly experienced with the breed and training.  We have a local trainer we have used in the past and have talked to him about these 2 but haven’t engaged formal training yet as they seem to be responding to us just fine.  We’re so happy to have these 2, they are a great addition to our home and get along so great.

Pupdate on baby Arya and all the progress that she has made.

She is about to turn 14 months old next week she is no longer the skinny, shy little puppy anymore. We believe she is full grown now and maybe will fill out a little more but won't get any taller.  She weighs 53 pounds and has a strong body.  She is able to run and jump with ease.  Her hip issues have worked themselves out and we do not need to do any surgery for her at this time.

We went to the University of Florida and saw an orthopedic surgeon there.  He gave Arya a full and extensive exam under anesthesia and tried to manipulate her hips to replicate what he would do for full hip replacement surgery.  He determined that she was not a good candidate for the surgery and would most likely not have a successful outcome.  Since she has quality of life, plays, runs and jumps with ease, he said that she is not in pain and can continue as is for as long as she can do everything that she wants to do. Perhaps when she gets old, there might be a chance that they will do a less invasive surgery to make sure her bones are not rubbing when she runs. Right now there is good movement of her joints and hips.

We are truly grateful for Arya.  She is training to be Cara's service dog and already has mastered many tasks.  She loves to work and is very well behaved in the various public places that Cara takes her to.  They had a bond from the very beginning and she is such a special dog.

We love her very much and are so happy she is part of our family.  I wish you well and continued success with the important work that you do.  You are saving so many lives and doing such good in this world.

From all of us, we wish you all the very best.

Rhonda Virgin and Family