Anyone going to either the Charlotte or Kannapolis play groups this weekend - weather permitting?

I'll certainly be at the Kannapolis playgroup sunday weather permitting, but I think We're out of luck.

Gary

They are calling for 64 degrees but also 70% chance of rain. So if it 'really' does rain we probably won't have too many greys at playgroup. Too slippery to run.

As I said, weather permitting. As badly as we need it, I won't even complain if there's rain. I asked because, last week, at Charlotte my pack were the only ones then after about 1 hour (just as we were leaving) JayCee and her humans arrived. Then I never heard back about Kannapolis, so I didn't go. My guys said they REALLY like it better when there are other dogs (not the same ol' snouts and butts as at home).

Some of the little stunts this bunch pulls... They must have a slightly warped sense of humor. Planning these antics is probaby how they spend their time when I'm not here.

Hooray!! It actually rained!! Yup... The field will be too messy even if the rain has stopped; so, I hope to meet you and your pack the following weekend.

Thanks for the 10ish tip. Since I have a 2 yo intact male (a temporary state), I try to get there a little early so that he can burn off some energy before too many others arrive.

Hi all-

I live closer to the Kannapolis group and really want to bring Rowdy out this weekend. My concern is his shyness- he's done so well the past week and a half that I'm afraid to add something to the mix that will send him into shock... (hahaha) Does anyone have any thoughts as to whether being around the other hounds would stress him or benefit him? I know he was around others at the kennel but I just want to make sure I'm not adding to his stress... we have finally gotten to a place where everything little thing is not a struggle and I don't want to blow it!!! I know every animal is different but generally speaking I can't find a lot of info regarding shy dogs and socialization with other dogs...

Thanks!

Hi, Julie! I've found that often dogs who are "shy" when solo really enjoy being able to socialize with the other greys and tend to be more extroverted. It's what they know, and there's comfort in the pack. This breed is one of the biggest pack oriented ones around. The only way to know is to try it. I would recommend coming a little later - 9:30-10ish after the other dogs have gotten some of their initial energy burned off. They'll be less overwhelming. There are lots of folks their who can help you. I was debating on whether to come tomorrow, because I need to keep both my dogs relatively quiet and Ti has stiches where the muzzle rests. But if you want to bring Rowdy, I'll come. We'll watch him, and if the experience does indeed seem to be too much, you can always leave.

There was one pup at at my old hometown, who had to come for just a few minutes and gradually build up his confidence. After a few weeks, he was the biggest playhound in town. This situation is truly unusual though.

Hope to meet you and Rowdy soon. I bet he lives up to his name.

Thanks for responding!

Actually the name Rowdy was more of my son's sarcastic humor than his personality... his name when we got him was Stormy... but the week he came home so did my son from college and he was shocked at how shy and completely withdrawn he was so every time he took him out for a walk he would say "c'mon Rowdy"... and then laugh knowing he was nothing close ... it started as a joke but it stuck really fast...

I had most of the same thoughts about just trying it and leaving if it proved too much for him... my gut tells me he will be fine if not improved by the experience as I've seen him really come out this past week. I just didn't want to take steps backwards - selfish I know but when he is less stressed I'm less stressed!

I would really like it if you came- I haven't met anyone from here or the area yet so that would be great!

Directions?

I'm excited for Rowdy and me!

Sounds great! These guys, go through so, very many changes in a short time and, in most cases, everything is brand new to them. Rather overwhelming! So, some of these guys become shy and hesitant until they get a handle on the "new world". Play group is familiar to them so they relax. How long have you had Rowdy? Don't forget... He's looking to you for leadership and, ironically, the more relaxed and confident you are the more relaxed and confident he'll be. These pups REALLY pick up on our emotions.

There are directions at the top of the "Charlotte" index under "Local Playgroups" topic. I don't know Kannapolis very well; so you'll probably get better directions there.

Since, I don't want the mini "pack" to over do it tomorrow, I'm planning on getting there at about 9:45-10. I drive a champagne Pathfinder. My two are both red fawns. Gary and Sandy are the group "leaders". He'll be alot of help. Don't forget Rowdy's muzzle; if, you don't have one, I'll try to scare one up. See you then...

Julie, post after playgroup and let us know how Rowdy did. I always enjoy reading the stories from everyone.

Hi Julie'
I'm Gary, My wife Sandy and I sort of oversee the playgroup and We're looking forward to meeting You and Rowdy. I have extra muzzles if You happen to forget Yours. If You want to map search directions You can use the address 611 Martin Circle, Kannapolis, NC 28081. My cell phone # is 704-787-3867.

Gary

Gary I'm sorry we didn't get a chance to meet you today- I got lost and thought I knew where I was going... I didn't bring your cell # because I was so sure I knew where to go... that'll teach me!

Anyway- we finally made it but everyone was gone except for Elizabeth and her two hounds... she was kind enough to stay and Rowdy got a chance to meet and run with them for a while. He did AWESOME so we will definitely be coming again next week and I might even let him try Charlotte too.

One thing- on the info under local playgroups it says Kannapols Group is from 10-12 is that right or is it earlier than that? I was there before 11 but everyone was gone except Elizabeth. Just confirming for next week.

Elizabeth- it was GREYT to meet you and thank you again for being kind enough to stay a little longer for us!

Have a Greyt rest of your weekend all!

Julie, it was a pleasure staying and meeting you and Rowdy. He's such a sweetie!!! Let him hang out with Junior enough, and Junior will corrupt him - turn him into a boisterous boy. Before you know it he WILL be living up to his name, even if it did start as a joke... He just needs some time to get his "paws" under him, which he seems to be doing just fine. Do you realize that your dogs are color coordinated? Not that Rowdy considers a Boston Terrier a dog...

I'd suggest letting him get really comfortable with the Kannapolis group then take him to the Charlotte group. It's a more active place than Kannapolis. There's all of the boarding kennel activities, barking dogs - kennel dogs and greyhounds, planes from the airport, etc. Once he's more accustomed to the crazy world we're in, I bet he'll enjoy the Charlotte group too.

I'm sorry I missed You at playgroup this morning. I had just left so I couldn't have missed You by much. I'll be looking for You next week weather permitting. The hours for Our playgroup are 9:00 to 11:00.
That's good advice from Elizabeth about getting Rowdy used to Our group before taking him to Charlotte. That's a nice group down there but it is a little noisier with planes and barking dogs at the kennels and so on.
Kannapolis just has the occasional screaming fire truck from time to time.LOL See Ya soon.

Gary