Dogs have
always been a part of my life, even as a child. But it wasn't until the summer
of 2010 that I finally had my own dog.
I collected Tilly, a Clumber Spaniel when she was only 8
weeks old and I think the world of her. Training was not always easy due to her
stubborn and headstrong nature but I persevered and she's turned into a
wonderful dog and friend.
Last year she had a litter of pups and I kept one - Annie.
On a recent (and rare) day out with just our own dogs, Paul took these two photographs of me and my gang !
On a recent (and rare) day out with just our own dogs, Paul took these two photographs of me and my gang !
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| This is my advanced training class |
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| Me, Tilly and Annie |
The only dog I lack confidence in handling personally is an
Akita - and the reason is simple.
Several years ago I was attacked whilst training. One
minute I was standing, talking to the owner, the next I was on the ground
trying desperately to defend myself from being bitten (in vain), as the owner
finally managed to drag the damned animal off me.
Now you have a little background information, it' s quite
clear why these pics of Troy are always with his owner !
Troy came to me today for "sheep chasing" amongst
other things, and despite my "hands off" approach, the two hour
lesson went very well and was successful. And judging by the 2nd pic, Troy
never wants to see another sheep in his life.
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| Troy, a young Akita |
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| Troy never wants to see another sheep again ! |
Paul and
I are both feeling sad for a dog who isn't even ours.
Blue, a 13 month old German Shepherd, arrived a matter of
days ago for 2 months of residential training. Paul ( a fan of GSD's) began the
initial work and immediately mentioned that the youngster didn't sit or really
walk as he should.
A trip to the vets (with the owners consent) for an x-ray
has revealed advanced hip dysplasia and the knowledge that Blue is in a lot of
discomfort. So this weekend his owners are coming to collect him and
poor Blue has an uncertain future.
Paul’s young lad Sumo has just had his first
birthday. If ever there was a Mutual Appreciation Society these two would be in
it !
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| "Is this okay for you Dad "? |