Whose name means divinely beautiful?

Who has the strength of a Viking shieldmaiden?

Who is menacing at the level of the jokester Loki?

Who tries to mimic the sound of thunder that Thor masters?

 

This little Norse “beloved of the Gods” has been learning all the ropes and rules since being in foster care. Astrid is a vocal little jokester who has a big curiosity. Maybe she should be called a “pig” bull instead as much snorting she does. Astrid balances between being super nimble and super clumsy but is always cute doing it. Astrid’s curiosity leads her to get into trouble by stealing things she isn’t supposed to and seeing if it is a game to get it away from her. Socks seem to be her true valued prized possession and we are learning to trade for treats.

 

Astrid is learning patience and commands like sit, wait, look and waits well for mealtime, which are her favorite times of the day. We are still working on recall, but overall, it has been good despite all those bunnies she would like to catch.  Lay down as been coming along but as she is already so low to the ground, she doesn’t always find it a necessary command. Bones and toys are fabulous, and she does well entertaining herself when not getting all the attention she would like.  Astrid likes to make sure all the toys and bones are hers, even hoarding them in her pile so no one else can get them, so sharing is still a hard thing to tackle. Astrid is learning that gentle leaders and walks aren’t so horrible, but she does tire quickly. Car rides are fun, but she wishes she were big enough to reach the window better. Astrid is slowing learning she is not allowed in the kitchen and listens about half of the time when told to get out.

 

Astrid goes into her kennel easily with her kong filled with peanut butter, but she definitely uses her voice to demand she is released at once.  She would prefer to be let out before her foster siblings, but she is learning that demanding isn’t a way to get her way. Astrid does like to control the situation, so strong leadership and consistency is going to be the ticket for her.

 

Astrid is still learning that public and outings don’t have to be scary, and she can be as brave as the shieldmaiden. She prefers to be around her people and needs some time to get to know people before she lowers the shield. Once the shield is lowered in the confines of the castle, she is a fierce lover of her people.

 

Astrid is looking forward to more voyages and adventures.

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SPECIAL RECOGNITION TO ASTRID'S FOSTER FAMILY FOR THEIR TIME AND DONATIONS: 

Melissa & JB