Thursday, November 13, 2008

Best Toy Ever




Last winter I was trying to find toys that would keep Shiloh’s mind sharp. I found the treat ball and brought it home, filled it and handed it off to him. He picked it up and dropped it. A few treats fell out. He ate the unexpected rewards and picked up the ball again to check it out. Again, dropping it and finding treats on the floor. After several tries the light went on and he knew that by moving the ball in a certain way more treats could be obtained. His next discovery was all the ways to move the ball and different ways sent different amounts of food out. When the ball rolled next to the wall or furniture, Shiloh would pick it up and move it to the center of the room to begin rolling and eating again. His problem solving was truly visible. He loved it.

After Trekker’s arrival I found that one treat ball was not going to work. It was a fight ready to happen. Shiloh was not going to share and Trekker was not going to leave it alone. I bought another. Trekker never had to “find the magic of the ball”, he watched Shiloh for a minute and knew what to do. It is by far their favorite toy.

So now as the weather begins to turn and the dogs need a diversion, it’s time for the treat balls. I pour their dinner meal inside (it holds over a cup of food). Then they roll and eat to their delight. Dinner can last over a half hour. It’s the best toy invented.

1 comment:

Anonymous said...

This is a great post mom! I remember when you bought that treat ball for Shiloh and I also remember that he wouldn't share it with Trekker. Dinner time for the dogs must be pretty entertaining nowadays. Miss you and love you guys!