Gimme Some Heat

Our dearest Zuul has been exhibiting some different physical and physiological qualities in the last week that lead us to believe she is fast approaching her first heat cycle (this is not the first time we've thought this though). Here is our evidence:

Item #1: Friday morning I noticed small spots on the carpet next to the bed where Zuul had been standing moments before. Upon inspection it became obvious that it was pee. Totally grossed me out and made me worry about her.

#2: Friday afternoon in front of group of people steals pizza off my plate while it is in my hand. She has NEVER taken food off of a plate, even when she is alone in the same room as it. Tom and I see this as a lapse in Zuul's memory about who is dominant- NOT her. I promptly removed Zuul from the space and put her in a submissive position. She needed a reminder.

#3: Tuesday evening playing with Hannah and her other dog friends, Zuul told Hannah to piss off and stop taking her toy. This apparently led Zuul to realize she didn't have to put up with Hannah's antics. Two fights followed, neither of which involved toys. They stopped fighting both times when we called their names. Zuul loves to wrestle, but has never engaged like this. It seems she's asserting her desire to be alpha female.

We haven't had any major events since, but we're on the lookout. I will be doing a lot of work with Zuul in the coming weeks to remind her who's the boss.