November’s Student of the Month: Lulu!

Each month, we are featuring one of our member dogs. Thanks to our amazing interns for putting together this project! Interview by Tiffany Wu; photos by Ingrid Komisar. 

What made you decide to rescue a dog from a shelter?

We didn’t want to buy a dog because there are so many dogs that need homes. My husband grew up with rescued hounds, and wanted a Beagle. I wanted a Basset hound. When I saw how many dogs need homes, I really didn’t see the purpose of buying one. We wanted a dog that was younger so we could train it at a young age. Rescuing has a lot to do with knowing our limits and what we’re capable of. We got her from a shelter where they go down to the south and rescue thousands of dogs. We looked at Beagles and Bassets and Lulu was the perfect blend. Beagles are hyper, and bassets are less active, so I knew she was a good mix.

Did you find the rescue process to be difficult?

The only obstacle we had was when we were looking at another Beagle/Basset mix and were denied. They were looking for someone with a big backyard. We spend our weekends in New Jersey with a backyard, but it wasn’t enough and we were heartbroken. I was extremely nervous the day I adopted Lulu because I was scared that something similar would happen, but we were lucky.

She is quite striking — how are you able to get down the street with her!

People stop me on the street all the time and talk about their nostalgic experiences with Beagles or Bassets. Sometimes, people even cry about their dogs that have passed away. I get comments a lot like, “Your dog is very shiny,” or “She has very beautiful coloring.” The funniest comment I’ve gotten was when someone ran up to us to see my “giant Dachshund.” People always comment on how friendly she is because she’s very smiley and goes up to everyone.

What is your favorite thing about School for the Dogs?

My favorite thing is how much Lulu loves going to the school. I can't walk two blocks near the school without her pulling me in the direction of her favorite place. She will stage a protest, sit her tush down, or even army crawl until we go in the direction of the School. That being said – there is something about School for the Dogs where Lulu feels safe, has fun, and learns. Besides watching Lulu have a wonderful time I love engaging with other dog enthusiasts and meeting really wonderful and caring people.

What would you say “training” is?

Training is constant and it never stops – just as learning. It is something you also improve and build upon- like building blocks. I also think you have to adjust your training when your dog takes on new behaviors. I always am asking myself “Could this be a teachable moment?”

Visit us on Instagram and guess what other two breeds were found when we did this Beagle/Basset Hound's DNA test. 

Annie Grossman
annie@schoolforthedogs.com