swimming lessons

proton apparently doesn't like swimming. we went to the reservoir today with some friends and, since it was warm enough to actually venture into the water, i took the opportunity to get proton's little paws wet. he's been much better lately about getting into streams and creeks and such, so i was curious to see what he would do in the larger sized body of water. i heard a little splash and YAY! there was proton, swimming like a proper dog and everything. however, i think this splash wasn't due to any sort of jump by proton, but more accurately a slip and "oh nuts." i say this because he swam as fast as he could to the rocks on the shore and hooked his little paws into the crevices to hoist himself up, all panting and looking a little bit terrified. and the next few times i brought him down to the water he plopped his butt down super hard and refused to budge. so, i being the former lifeguard, gently picked him up and dropped his scrawny dog legs into the water and had him practice his doggy paddle. however, his paddling was super frantic and he was struggling the whole time to get away and i just kept saying "good job! good job!" and laughing super hard... and then the last time i dropped him into the water and he swam again... i was so excited for him!... but he was not pleased, all wet rat-like looking and breathing heavy.

but i think he and madison are starting to be friends. she even let him wear her milk bottle cap as a hat.