I am happy to report this weekend was a success… for both Mason and myself! You all know how nervous I was about Mason getting boarded for the weekend. However, as soon as we arrived at For Paws Unleashed, almost all my fears disappeared.
My mom and I took Mason and Tessa together Friday morning. I thought it would make Mason feel more comfort to have Tessa by his side, and I was definitely right. As soon as we walked in, Mason was, of course, stuck to me like glue. He would not leave my side and I could tell he was suspicious about what was getting ready to happen. However, all the staff immediately came up to him and started loving on him making him feel right at home.
As we started to say our goodbyes and the staff began to take Mason and Tessa back, Mason started to resist. He kept trying to pull away from them and come back to me (this is so hard to see as a mom 🙁 ). I then asked if I could walk back with him to make the transition easier. The staff let me walk part of the way back until we got to the “staff only” area. Mason then walked straight through the door and didn’t even look back. My mom and I finished filling out the paper work and as we were walking out to leave, we could see Mason and Tessa outside already playing with their cousins Hank and Bennie! In that moment, my anxieties completely vanished and we were off to Norris Lake for a great weekend.
If you haven’t been to Norris Lake, you are definitely missing out! This was my first trip there and I can tell you it definitely won’t be my last. The lake was SO beautiful and clear, you could literally see 20 feet down. We spent the weekend hanging out with family, playing on the Lily Pad, fishing, hanging out at the Tiki bar and riding on inner tubes and boats! It was seriously a blast!
When we went to pick the pups up Monday morning, I was a little nervous to hear Masons’ report. The staff said Mason was un-trusting at first, but seeing them with Tessa and using her to lead Mason was a big help. He ended up warming right up, playing great in his play groups and having an awesome time.
I am just so thrilled with how this past weekend went. It could not have went better for both Mason and I. We faced our fears and I am not longer worried about traveling without Mason.
Dog Mom Tip # 20: Your pup reads and reacts off of your emotions, so be brave and don’t be afraid to face your fears.