We suspect that our Maxwell spent his life - prior to being with the RSPCA - inside. We think he probably lived in a very urban area, was regularly taken to a park, probably by car, but spent most of his life inside. He is very excited when going outside with us and we realised the other day that when we merely sat outside, he had no idea what to do. So today, Pete washed one side of Bella whilst Elizabeth groomed our mutt under the tree. He then popped back onto Bella for us to do a micro cruise to the marina services point. He loved the cruise. What a difference to our shaking Josie! We moored up, then he walked with Elizabeth to take the rubbish and recycling off whilst Pete emptied the waste cassettes. Back on board, we turned and returned to our mooring the other way around so Pete could wash Bella's other side and E cleaned the deck. Maxwell learned to stay on the bank and try to watch us both. Finally, he settled enough to lie down. Result!
We then started up Bella again to turn, this time cruising to Norton Junction for the reverse around. What a happy hound! He was fascinated by the water, especially as it bubbled around the stern when we went into reverse for the turn. There was much to watch, even squeezing next to Pete the Tillerman, to see more. What a success. After 8 years cruising with a panicked GSD, shivering under the dining room table at every engine noise, this is fabulous. Maxwell the boating German Shepherd. yes.
