Friday, February 19th

Busy week. Toby is slowly gaining in most areas. The act of going out the door is now just a matter of fact. He's more relaxed on most of his walks, which have been with me. (Ken hurt his

neck and isn't able to)

Ken has continued to be more verbal with Toby and although it hasn't made a huge difference, it's starting to make some difference.

We have also agreed that in the morning, when Ken let's Toby out - instead of having me come down to call him in, let Toby come in when he's comfortable. That is working. Ken waits until Toby comes to the door and opens it. Toby is still eating his breakfast in the hallway outside of the kitchen which is where he's comfortable. He won't eat much some mornings, but it's a relief to see him eat at a normal speed and with his tail up.

We're planning a trip up north in three weeks and would like to take Toby and Buddy with us. It will be a big deal as it will be a big change for Toby. We'll have to see where his 'safe' place will be. It's a small cottage so space is limited, but it's a place we spend a lot of time at. We will use the Xanax as necessary. We do a lot of walking up there so we will keep him busy and exercised.

Noticed this week that Toby is not looking at the ceiling anymore and he's not as aware of the lights from the sun reflecting. Also, he isn't as reactive to loud noises if something falls or slams shut. He is very, very brave if Ken has some food. I've asked Ken to let Toby come to him for treats. Most times Toby will stand there and eat it, sometimes he'll run and take it to 'his' room. It's Ken's form of lure training. When Toby makes the effort, he gets what he wants and Toby is doing it at his own pace. I'm letting Ken be the person with treats - I try not to use them and generally use praise for his bravery.