Feb 02/11/05 8:47 AM

Hi-
You are doing exactly the things I would be doing, if I was in your
place. Moving the cat dishes is a fine idea, though Holly can also be
taught not to bother them in the future, and using the gate in the
study is just fine. Holly will respect that boundary. Although she
could easily jump it, she does not do that sort of thing- she is too
polite.
Does your colleague with the dog with allergies have a vet she can
recommend? We can work on that when you come for the visit, along with
many other things, such as her coming to you next weekend.
Holly may be shy or may bark when you arrive, but I will have her
favorite treats (hot dogs, and turkey) for you to give her, and I am
sure she will relax fairly quickly. This introduction will be part of
her training process, and something you can do when you introduce her
to new people in the future.
It is going to be a gorgeous day Saturday, so we will get outside
quite a bit. Besides walking in the neighborhood, we may go to one of
the great county parks where the dogs can run freely. Did I tell you
Holly is trained to walk off leash? But, wait until you see how excited
she gets when we put her leash on! She associates only good things with
the leash, so I know she will love going out with you for your walks
and runs.
Do you have any questions about directions? Why don't you call when
you are leaving your house?
We are looking forward to seeing you soon!
Stephanie