and they're off

Over the weekend the puppies set off on the next leg of their big adventure - one to Cornwall, one to Plymouth and one all the way to West Sussex.  Before they went, they had 3 clear vet checks, 3 microchips and 3 clear eye tests.  There was not one episode of vomiting in all that - and not even any drooling!  Natural-born travellers, these puppies.

And also before going, there was the opportunity for a few last cuddles with mama.

Karhu having mama cuddles all by himself

Considering how much Tuuli has enjoyed spending time and playing with her puppies, you might think that she was distressed to see them go.  But no, she was quite content to see them go off one by one with their new owners and when she wagged the last one off, she promptly hopped up onto the sofa, flipped onto her back with her feet in the air and had the best, deepest snooze she has had for 2 months.  As with all things puppy-related, Tuuli knew exactly when the time was right for them to go.

After Anni and Karhu had left, Arvo was left briefly on his own.  Luckily I had borrowed Ulla for the weekend to take her to a show, so she was on hand to keep him well occupied and tire him out for the drive to West Sussex.  When you think how roughly she plays with Loki, it's amazing how gentle she was with Arvo.  And she did a pretty good job of teaching him all the funny play-faces.

And so to the home pics.  Arvo was the last to go and Karhu was first, followed by Anni shortly thereafter.  I couldn't resist including a photo of the same family members leaving with Rauhan EIGHT years ago.  I don't know if they can believe it was that long ago, but I sure can't.

Karhu off with Kirsty & Luke

Arvo heading off with Adele & Wesley

Anni with Katy, Hattie & Emma

The same family 8 years earlier with Rauhan