You can teach an old dog new tricks

We got our dog a few months before Sam was born.

Not the wisest decision in the world, since there were a more than a couple days having a newborn and a new puppy just about sent me over the edge.

We eventually settled in to a routine, but the dog's training was severely neglected as a result of being de-throned so quickly from being the center of attention. (Anyone who has come to visit and been the recipient of lots of jumping and barking can attest to the fact that he could have used a bit more instruction in the behavior department.)

Anyway - the kids and Joe decided to teach the Gus-man to fetch.

They went outside armed with a frisbie and bits of dog food to offer as a reward (since I am too cheap to buy dog treats).

I expected a less-than-successful outcome.

Here is Joe, explaining the process to all the parties involved. Doesn't Gus look like he is really paying attention?
The throw.
The return! (I couldn't believe it!)
One treat from Daddy....
One from Sam....
And one from Sadie.
Quite an impressive trick when your only reward is three pieces of dog food (especially when there is a bowlful inside available for consumption at any time)!