welcome ​idéfix + shining!

Welcome ​Idéfix + Shining!

These two super sleddies arrived into care on August 7 and it's taken me a bit to put their story together. I originally tagged along on the pick up with camera in hand, but ended up using my phone for video mostly. So... I've created a 3-minute video from about 3 hours on Monday.

​Idéfix is the beautiful blue-eyed male. No, you're not seeing things... he's got somewhat crossed eyes and/or a lazy eye. Also he's got a spotted coat, a bit heeler-ish, but more than likely German Short-haired pointer as they're often part of the sled dog mixes. He's a young 9.
Shining is the beauty with two different coloured eyes. She's a bit floofier than ​Idéfix and was a bit slower to open up. When she did though, she loved getting some loves. Shining is 8!

Both dogs had travelled on a morning flight from Whitehorse, YT to us in Victoria, BC. I'm really amazed each time new dogs arrive after flights. I can only imagine what they may be wondering. Their started their day as usual, but it took a left turn somewhere and they've landed in a whole new place. The sounds, sights... and SMELLS. It's all new. It's all different.

It's been a few days now since they arrived and their foster homes have noted that they have both finally did their business (outside!) and are eating a bit. This is a big win as it often takes days for new arrivals to feel safe enough to do seemingly normal things like eat and do their business. Mostly they sleep or pace... or sleep and pace. 

I've learned ​Idéfix is being fostered close by so I'm looking forward to popping over for a visit. Upon arrival he was a velcro dog. He gave licks - the kind where you can feel his teeth pressing on your face because he's really getting in there (see video). And though they were mostly stress-related 'kisses', instead of shutting down, he was looking to me... an unknown human, for some sort of comfort. Back at the shelter for intake, he gave kisses to Deb while getting weighed.

Their decompression will take time, but the support is in place for these two to learn about a whole new life and maybe even dip their toes in the ocean.

Welcome to your official retirement Idéfix + Shining!!
xo

p.s. Idéfix and Shining are the 250th and 251st sleddies I've photographed for this project! A milestone for sure.