7 weeks old

Hard to believe the pups will be leaving in one week.  Earlier in the week, the pups had a few days of a GI upset which they fortunately quickly recovered from without any treatment.  Even with that and individual feedings, they still had very respectable weight gains.  Weights ranged from 8 lbs 5 oz (Wren) to 11 lbs (Eagle).  Most weighed around 9 1/2 lbs, very typical weights for 7 week old retriever pups.  The pups are eagerly eating around 14 c of kibble per day, and I pasteurized their last gallon of goat milk yesterday.  This weekend, I am transitioning the pups over to eating dry kibble with a bit of water added, but not pre-soaked.  Bridget went home on Tuesday, she had a bunch of her reading therapy kids to visit on their last week of classes.  The pups still have three adult dogs at my house to play with, so are not missing out on adult dog interactions.  And I am sure Bridget is thrilled to be home again.  This weekend, I have been busy giving the pups medical, structural, and temperament evaluations.  All the pups passed, and I believe they have an above average chance of becoming successful assistance dog trainees.   Only time will tell, but I know that the assistance dog programs will give them a great start.