Dejah seems to love her new Gator, and it occurred to me that this is her first toy that is just for her.
All of her previous toys had to be shared with her older sister, Willow, who could be very possessive when she decided any new toy actually was hers. All of those other toys in the house must have a lingering scent of Willow The Best Dog There Is, who became Willow The Best Dog There Was almost a month ago now.
Now, with the presentation of Gator, Dejah knows unequivocally that we bought a toy for her, just for her. And in the first 24 hours since that presentation, she and the toy have been inseparable.
I think I understand this happiness: She knows at last that we love her and wish her happiness. All doubts are cast aside, and the connection is finally made.