Took me 24 hours to realize it, but this is a Be More Dog situation.  Gator has been by me all day, sleeping, a bit of tummy rub, and I realize that he isn't thinking that this is house #3.  He is just thinking that this house is where he belongs.  The yard where he chases critters, the bed where he sleeps, his leash, etc.  And that I am the person he belongs with.  Amazing how us humans inject all this drama into things.

So, what have we learned about Mr. Gator?  I have been e:Mailing with the director of the Tennessee humane society which was linked with those older posts.   She does remember Gator, but they are going through a renovation, so she cannot access his old file right now.   (Very caring woman, clearly wants to make sure that Gator and other dogs under her care can find homes whenever possible). 

She does recall that he was returned by one foster because he got into a fight with the foster's dog.   Now, that seems very unlike him to me.   I haven't sensed any aggression and he does great in play groups.  But I suspect that he would defend himself if another dog was too in his face or tried to steal his food, etc.  And, a dog fight involving a 100+ pound dog is no laughing matter.  But, this might explain why he was so uncomfortable in my house at first.   I thought maybe he smelled something from Otis' and Tess' final days (remember how Tess would not get on my bed after Otis passed until I had washed all of the bedding?).   Now, I think it more likely that he was afraid of a possible pre-existing dog.   I will obviously have to be very careful if I end up selecting a sister. 

Anyway, as soon as she can get to his file, she will be able to tell what his circumstances were, how many times he came through their shelter, etc.   He is comfortable in the house now, and getting more and more comfortable at day care each visit.   Hopefully, someday soon he will realize that I will always come back for him.

We are celebrating today!   Gator escaped through the garage this morning while I was trying to get ready to take him to day care.   He headed off down the driveway.   I was dressed for work, and not in the mood to chase a dog around the neighborhood.   I yelled "no," and "come" loudly, and. . . .Gator stopped and came back to me!!!!