Wednesday 31 December 2014

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31st December 2014

The end of one more year - a year of working with all breeds of dogs - a year of being the voice of animals who have no choice but to feel the pain of captivity - abuse or victims of the ONGOING law that destroys families - seperates canine pals and in a lot of cases KILLS healthy vibrant family dogs who are seized not because of dangerous dog issues BUT being born TYPE - THIS law - BSL. RIP all those we could not save - newly born pups - seniors - who died alone not knowing WHY!

The end of one more year where our precious pets - rescue dogs who we have rehomed - and watched grow - who have held a special place in our heart.  The loss of our feline and canine family members who at their passing have taken another piece of our hearts as we say our 'Final Goodbyes' and gently lay them down to their final sleep.

My Darling Maisy - who I rehomed in 2002 to a wonderful couple - who even when my own 'dog behavioural business' started to build up I still never gave up walking her - Maisy who ran after everything that moved - 'joggers' 'small fluffy dogs' 'horses' - bikes - Maisy who was the first dog to be banned from the residential gardens of Kensington W11.  Maisy who gave the best kisses - who laid in my arms and when you really met her and she liked you - you fell in love with such a deep and beautiful love that took a part of your heart that broke in two when she was first diagnosed with cancer and when she died at the end of this year I felt a loss so great that tears filled up and overflowed with pain.  Maisy my beautiful girl as your dear owners said You were a huge part of our lives - we all rescued you - we all cherished you and what a bl.....dy good life you had and how blessed we were to have known your love.
RIP Darling Girl You will never be forgotten.

To Marsha Jones who lost her Ruby Girl so soon before Christmas and whose presence is so missed by all that knew her especially her human family and her canine pals Benny and Doris.  Ruby - daughter of Tilly - Ruby a shining light - Ruby a sweet staffie girl who gave so much love and asked for nothing in return.  Thoughts and Sweet Memories will be treasured evermore.  Run Free Sweet Ruby forever shining bright.

The end of the year of dog workshops - educational projects - old ones gone but new ones  in sight - White City Estate my next 'dog training educational classes' project - where already a lot of dog owners are looking forward to participating in training sessions - both educational and enlightening. A big TASK maybe - am I looking forward to it - you bet!!

It leaves me one last message - continue PETITIONING against what isnt right
continue - PROTESTING against the Fur Trade - Factory Farming - Animal Slaughter - Puppy Farms and Dog Laws that make the dogs the victims and the let Abusers walk away - And remember WHEREVER a dog or any animal needs SAVING - wherever they are in the world - surely they ALL deserve a chance and our SUPPORT.

Happy New Year

Sunday 14 December 2014

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November 2014

A month of loss - A month when new laws have been put into operation regarding our four legged friends - new Dog  Laws that again make many dogs and their owners the victims of over zealous authorities and new laws that already have claimed the lives of two dogs that I know of myself - and have felt the grief of both owners!

One was a twelve year old staffordshire bull terrier lab cross - it took just thirty seven minutes to decide whether he lived or died - he was ordered to be destroyed - Rest Your Sweet Soul Luga.  No loving arms to hold you - no final words of goodbye. 
The other was a mixed breed small dog who bit an intruder and under this law that victimizes many innocents were responsible for the ending of her life.

What about the (words can never describe what I would like to call them) thug that beat a dog he obtained off Gumtree - Tyson a staffordshire bull terrier who he left to die or the woman who abandoned  her boxer cross in her house when she moved - the poor dog died of kidney failure - in agony - tins of dog food just out of reach. - And the dog fighting rings - organised by vicious evil beyond inhuman.  They walk free or a paltry 'few weeks' board.  Well done The Justice System - you really have proved we ARE a nation of ANIMAL LOVERS.

My pledge for 2015 is to keep fighting - being PART of the voice to urge the government to STOP - THINK - YES we need laws BUT TO PROTECT all animals against abuse - and Educate not only dog owners - the public - BUT also the media and the very officials themselves who carry out these very inhumane and outrageous laws and let abusers and animal killers walk free.

Join me anyone!!

Monday 20 October 2014

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20th October 2014

#DogForum @St JudesHall Ilbert Street W10 2pm-4pm

Today the NEW Dog Laws come into effect which will make owning a dog in London especially and all over UK as even over zealous barking - over boisterous spirits can mean your dog getting an asbo or even you you yourself being prosecuted for being an irresponsible owner - Councils - environmental officials and the police will be allowed more 'control' over (in some cases) whether your dog LIVES or Dies.  this covers all breeds of dog.

Yes Laws should be put in place - and yes Irresponsible owners should be held accountable BUT what about the 'victims' - dogs were not born bad - what about the increase in #dog fighting #backstreetbreeding #crueltycases - where is the law to protect them and prosecute the abusers with lengthy sentences - eight weeks imprisonment in extreme cases is usually the maximum sentence!!

Today in #QueensPark I will be sitting alongside local council and housing officers and the local westminister dog warden and crime prevention officer to offer both dog owners and non dog owners advice - about how this law affects the community - how you can hopefully get mediation before a prosecution case is brought against you. I will also be giving out contacts of Dog Law Solicitors Wheldons Law and DDA Watch who take up cases regarding prosecution.  At least our council and community are trying to work together to make sure this law is discussed - advice given and overall work for not only public safety but for the safety and protection of our beloved residential pets

Tuesday 14 October 2014

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September 2014

I always wonder why in September when school begins after the long summer holiday - when I am walking my dogs #MissyBlue #ChelseaRose and #KikiDiamond - a lot of dogs I have seen in the summer months seemed to have disappeared!! I do not mean 'vanished' but are not seen out in the parks, the canal -

Have they suddenly become 'indoor dogs' or are they now taken out ONLY at midnight or dawn - I know kids have started school and life is buzy but hey a dog needs a walk or two or three!! Or have they literally been 'rehomed' or surrendered to a local animal shelter because sadly the amount of dogs and cats that have been given up or abandoned in UK alone has risen.

For years it has been 'bullbreeds' that have been found in rescues - dog pounds or just abandoned in the street - this year though bull breeds are still the most abandoned breed  BUT more and more pedigrees BIG and small - are ending up in rescue.  Are 'would be' dog owners buying these dogs from registered breeders and paying lots of money just to abandon them or are they going to pet shops - and letting the rescues pick up the pieces.  Because out of most of the rehoming centres there are more and more un socialised dogs that can not be homed with other dogs - children under a certain age and some with no children at all!!

Have we really become such a 'Throw away Society' of our once precious pets - or is it so many back street or unregistered breeders that have crept out of the woodwork for a quick money making scheme - Do our laws need improving to oversee and regulate all breeders!!

In USA there are thousands yes thousands of dogs and cats killed every day in kill shelters - the most euthanized dogs are Pit Bull Breeds and the chihuahuas - puppy farms are many and growing - pet stores selling these sweet looking pups whose parents never see light of day or feel the hand of comfort living in cramped cages BUT then isnt UK becoming the same!!  Thousands of dogs ARE killed - healthy loving dogs in council pounds and in some rescues where there is just too many abandoned dogs and NOT enough
homes waiting to take them.

We have Animal Welfare - We have Dogs Trust - Battersea - Blue Cross and numerous rescues But our LAWS for animal abuse, backstreet breeding are laughable and yet Our Dangerous Dog Act and BSL give over zealous and out of date authorities the right to seize dogs that are loyal loving and family pets that are in a loving home AND DESTROY without a second thought.

Myself I think until the Laws are made to protect the dog as well as the public and public funds are spent on Education about Responsible ownership and Neutering and Spaying your pets then the situation will get much more out of control than it already is.









Monday 18 August 2014

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Canine Culture Update for August 2104

August 2nd 

What a month it has been, firstly we had the Queens Park Community Festival in its eleventh year in Queens Park  Gardens W10 where we had a small dog show including categories 'Prince and Princess' ' Ilovemystaffi' 'Best Rescue' and 'Pup Idol'.  A  presentation by the Lord Mayor of Westminster of the Community Cup 2014 for the most 'Responsible Dog and Owner' - a joint win this year by Elvie the handsome  black labrador and Maggie a gorgeous American Bull Dog. (photos coming soon).  It was a great day for both dogs and the local community with amazing singing - and dancing acts.

August 8th

Everyone needs a break but when you got dogs and only one has a passport - or you don't want to put them through travelling abroad because of age etc - you miss them already before you have even left for the airport - and when you get there - you just feel 'Gosh How much they would love it here'!!

So my holiday break was short and sweet and after driving my poor 'dog sitter' mad with last minute 'rules' - I arrived in Nantes in France met by my friends Mary and Micheal and taken to meet the real reason why I was there (only joking Mary mmmmmmmmmmmmm) to meet Tess the stunning German Shepherd Rescue who was so warm and friendly  - knowing a 'softy' when she saw one!! 
The little rural village we stayed was beautiful and I spent wonderful hours exploring the fields - the local places of interest and of course the local village 'bars' - everyone smiling with a polite 'Bonjour' - thanks Mary and Michael and of course the lovely Tess for a great time.  Oh and I must not forget the lovely little kitten Mary rescued and found a home for the day before I left - or I might have had an 'extra' 'someone to declare' as I went through customs!!!

13th August

Back with my precious girls - Missy gave me the 'How could you leave me' Look and 'cold shoulder' treatment for an hour or two!! Chelsea jumped up and down and lots of kisses - Kiki Diamond was 'Any chance of that chicken and rice'  we were given when you were away!! But then an alert went out on Facebook that a 'Romanian Dog' had gone missing in W5 and Niz Khan and I went and fly posted in the area - thankfully she was found safe and well and now is reclining on the sofa with her grateful and relieved Mum.

17th August

White City www.canineculture.co.uk Dog Show
My first dog show in White City Estate - not a familar area even though I had visited a few times to post flyers of the Dog Show I still got lost when I got to the estate to find the venue for the show!!

Setting up the tables and marque for registration and putting the prizes and rosettes out - it poured down for about twenty minutes but thankfully the sun came out for the actual show - meaning a delay in starting. Thanks to my 'Dog Show Judges' Priya and Katie and help from Helen from the Parks Police and Ana and of course Emma Morgan from the White City Community Enterprise who invited me to organise the show.

From chihuahuas to huskies to jack russells to a rescued street dog - to a small staffie 'Pup Idol' to a large black and white 'staffie cross' - its what makes doing these events and my job just the #Best ever

Next Dog Advice  Surgery @ GrandUnionPets 174 Shirland Road W9  is 30th August 2014 @ 2pm-3.30pm where you can bring your dog have a friendly chat with me and a cup of coffee

PLEASE REMEMBER
if you live in the Notting Hill area  or are coming to the 'Notting Hill Carnival' on the Bank Holiday Weekend
24th-25th August PLEASE DO NOT BRING your dog - IT WILL BE TOO DISTRESSING FOR THEM. Even walking your dog in that area COULD SPOOK THEM - the noise - the crowd. If you go ENJOY but PLEASE leave your dog (s) at home - inside and NOT left alone in gardens

Tuesday 22 July 2014

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TRIBUTE TO BARNEY the Black Lab

Sadly Barney the loveable black lab passed away  recently and sympathy goes out to Lena and Patrick who loved him dearly.

Barney  was a typical lab full of mischief - and often deciding to 'go off on a wander' searching the streets of the local area for 'tasty titbits' like peoples lunch - 'A sandwich anyone?'!!

Barney had learned to open the front gate and then he was off 'either towards the canal or down the Harrow Road past the shops and then 'often' could be found outside Westbourne Park Station lying in the sun or looking for a 'pat or two' from the rail staff or the passing commuters!

'Lee' our local dog warden at the time used to pick him up calling his 'owners' who had taken so many different 'escape proof'' actions that left them feeling both frustrated and amazed that 'their canine peter pan' managed to 'outwit them' every time.

Was it the fact that he was given a 'tasty snack' and a bowl of fresh water at the station  - or - was able to raid every available bin in sight or just the 'joy' of outwitting the very ones that he was so fond of!!

I had first met Barney when Patrick his owner was walking him as a bouncy young pup who would bound up to meet and greet everyone he saw - whether it was a snappy terrier or an indulgent Rottie -and he loved the postman (we often wondered if the postman helped him in his 'escapes).

Everyone knew Barney and Everyone loved him - and he will be missed by us all - well maybe not the ones who are still 'wondering' where their 'packed lunches' disappeared to - so with a fond farewell Adieu - Goodbye Barney - RIP and I am sure you will soon be creating havoc with all the other canine 'Angels'.


Thursday 12 June 2014

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June 2014

Queens Park Community Dog Show coming soon
August 2nd 12pm-1pm @QueensParkGardens
 


 Already into the summer month of June 2014 and already started my summer 'DogAdviceSurgery' in Queens Park Gardens - Dog Area on Mondays twice a month!  Exciting  - and Monday I met Lena a very friendly Staffordshire Bull Terrier - who loved people but due to a 'bad experience with another dog' she was a bit fearful when meeting new canine pals.  Her recall was in need of attention but after a few training tips - and mmmmmmmmmm - a few tasty treats - she learned to 'rock and roll with recall'. My next one on one is two 'Bullies' - Father and son - need to get their social skills in order before they get given a local ASBO!! Meeting them again on Friday. Looking forward to the next one on the 22nd June @ 1pm - same time same place. Freckles the jack russell has already put his name down.

We have the Community Festival on 2nd August which means another big decision on who gets the 'Most Responsible Dog Owner for 2014' - Last year was a joint win for Olly the Golden Retriever and Gracie the Rescue Staffordshire Bull Terrier. I think this year will be a joint win as well - AND  yes a very hard decision to make!  We will be having a small dog show as well which is Free - Fun and with rosettes and prizes and of course the presentation of the cup. This event is also full of musical acts on a large stage - dancing - fun for the kids - stalls with lots of food of different countries - and a bouncy castle and activities for all ages

Since 2008 a cup is given out to a dog or dogs and their owner (s) for the most improvement - and advancement of both owners care and responsibility and dog's training and social skills.  Each year their name or names are engraved on the cup and handed over by the previous years winner to the present.  It is a great way of encouraging young and old to be more responsible and encourages all ages to attend training classes and learn about not only their dog but other breeds as well

Also I have got private funding from a small charity to have more Free Dog Training Classes for the community of Queens Park. Especially to work with Bull Breed owners if they need one on one sessions before coming to a 'Alldogbreeds WELCOME' class.

Saturday 14th June I have my Dog Surgery @GrandUnionPets #174ShirlandRoad at 2pm Bring your dog and come have a friendly chat and cup of coffee with me and get some Advice on your dogs behaviour or yours!! www.canineculture.co.uk




Friday 30 May 2014

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Dog Advice Surgery Saturday 31st May 2014

Got a problem with your new rescue dog - new pup or your own rountine or work schedule has changed and is affecting your dog's behaviour - Seperation anxiety - barking indoors or outside at traffic or joggers or both!

Then come along to the Dog Advice Surgery @GrandUnionPets 174 Shirland Road W9 on Saturday at 2pm -3.30pm  bring your pet for a Free Assessment and training advice.  Relaxing with a coffee and have a friendly chat with Crissie Chambers from Canine Culture or contact me email canineculture@googlemail.com or check out my website www.canineculture.co.uk. tel 07949523710

If a private  one on one session is required I offer £5 off the fee for any customers of Grand Union Pets.

Hope to see you there

Thursday 29 May 2014

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28th May 2014

What a week it has been my computer 'died' and I got a new one which I still am adjusting to!!! So apologies firstly to my 'doggy clients' for a delay in their 'back up emails'. \One of my clients last week was a malamute six month old  female  who had already had at least three homes -rescued from Gumtree by a caring couple they needed an assessment on his behaviour and help with training and working out the best way of socialising her and settling her into a rountine and setting boundaries. Look forward to seeing her progress next week for the next training session.

The following day was a little pomeranian in W2 near Hyde Park - a great little chap just wasn't into joggers - policeman on horseback - and dogs Smaller than him - he would just like to run with the big guys even when they didn't really want to run with him!  


Friday my 'boarder' Domino from Thailand went home to his mama - hoping for that last doggy snack before leaving.  The weekend was full of muddy walks - wet dogs and even more muddier floors!!!

Monday was my birthday and before you ask 'age is just a number' - started off with a leisurely walk then a phone call regarding a small dog who had been seriously attacked by another dog who apparently had attacked another dog within 24 hours.  Sadly the dog who attacked was known  never to be walked and the only time he got out was when he managed to escape out the front door - a victim himself of an irresponsible  owner!!

After getting the details from both owners of the dogs concerned and making a report I needed the white chilled wine and good food at the Thai restaurant and to celebrate my birthday with my friends and talk about what we love best - dogs!!

I hope everyone enjoyed the Bank Holiday despite the weather.

The week ends with my 'Dog Advice Surgery' @GrandUnionPets 174 Shirland Road W9 on Saturday 31st May @ 2pm-3.30pm.  If you are in the area or would like some free advice on your dogs behaviour come along bring your pet or contact me on www.canineculture.co.uk or call 07949523710



Wednesday 30 April 2014

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3rd May 2014 @GrandUnionPetsBoutique 174 Shirland Road London W9

I will be having a Dog Advice Surgery at Grand Union on Saturday between 2pm - 3.30pm.  Come and see me for a free advice - bring your dog - have a chat - a cup of coffee and afterwards feel free to browse around Grand Union Pet Boutique - where I am sure your 'precious pet' will HELP show you around. 'Dog Treats' 'Dog Food' and lots of toys - practical training devices and an excellent Grooming Service available. www.grandunionpets.co.uk

If you feel your dog needs a one on one you can call me on #07949523710 or email canineculture@googlemail.com or visit my website www.canineculture.co.uk  - and of course you are still welcome to come along and see me to discuss your dogs behaviour.

Saturday 26 April 2014

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Working with Dogs

After a great Easter week end and spending time with my three dogs - all rescues - two from UK - and my latest family member being Kiki Diamond from Greece settling in well 'paws under the table' already!! I had to get back to work  - to pay for their 'future' - pet insurance - food and of course vet bills!!!

And I do LOVE my work but 'working with dogs' and even though 'clients' give you as much details regarding 'history' - behaviour patterns - you still don't really know what the dog's real problems are until you meet the dog - the owner and all the family members!! Sometime you can  get inquires  from an 'anxious' or 'worried' owner -} 'Rescue dog' - Four years old - shows signs of aggression - lunging at people -  'or' a ten week old pup that is 'biting' - 'or' I have just castrated my dog and there is no change in his behaviour' - why hasn't he calmed down straight away - he is still aggressive even though he was castrated -} Castration does not solve a behavioural problem but can help when your dog meets another un neutered dog - a ten week old pup is not 'biting' but 'mouthing' - BUT you want to address the problem early before the pups 'mouthing' becomes biting as the pup becomes older - or - a Rescue dog that not much history is known but you find the lunging is - not aggressive but can be intimidating to others - but can easily be addressed by 'lead control' and then 'more training' off lead.

Tuesday I went to meet my client and his beautiful Belgium Shepherd - An adult - First thing he did on greeting me was to JUMP UP - the owner holding onto the lead with all the muscle he could - I stood still - folded my arms 'Blocking him' - he tried jumping up again - I turned my back again with a Block then turned back(No Verbal)  and then  he sat (immediately I was ready to greet him) - we were ready for the next step - walking on lead. In just a short time and using 'lead control' and the 'Block' and Rewarding Positive actions with Verbal Praise his owner could see a difference - and promised to carry on with the same technique and follow the routine I had set him.  Looking forward to the next session in a couple of weeks.

Wednesday from a Belgium Shepherd to a chihuahua - a 'former' lapdog whose elderly owner had passed away and relatives had bought the dog to a rescue home  - his new owner wanted her to socialise and learn how to walk on a lead - we feel that though the chihuahua was four years old  - she had probablly never actually walked anywhere outside and the garden was her 'toilet area' in her last home. It was basically starting the training as you would do with a small puppy - which we did - her owner seemed impressed with the progress booked me for at least another couple of sessions!!

I indeed am lucky to be working with dogs but I also know that Insurance is SO important and even if you are walking YOUR dog or someone elses dog YOU should have third party insurance  at least and when I see some dog walkers with their eight or ten dogs I DO wonder if they have insurance or even pay tax. IF you ARE walking someone elses dogs and are a dog walker  YOU SHOULD have insurance that covers PUBLIC CARE AND LIABILITY .

NB I do KNOW some professional dog walkers that are fully insured and operate as a proper business But as I said there are quite a few that are not - so If looking for a dog walker in your area ask to see their insurance policies.  I have full pet trainers insurance and have a copy on hand if any of my clients wish to see it. KEEP YOUR PET SAFE - THEY are family

Monday 7 April 2014

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Dogs of Romania

Working with all breeds of dogs and dog owners from all over London - meeting dog lovers - from all over the world  - in UK I am often asked the 'question' - Why do you support 'transporters ' small rescues' and 'donate' to help the dog the street dogs of Romania!

And the answer is 'simple' - The Romanian Government was given over one billion euros by the EU Commission for 'public funds' in 2013 - the final payment by August 2013 and then the 'animal carnage began' - stray dogs on the streets of Romania were 'rounded up' by 'dog catchers' - beaten - poisoned and worse - loyal rescuers like Arwen - Adina and many more romanian angels - work night and day to rescue 'as many as they can'.  They need help with donations so they can fully  vaccinate neuter and transport to loving owners - in other parts of Europe and UK with the proper paperwork and passports.

 In  UK we have some kind of animal welfare system - in romania they have NONE and their own Government is paying to kill these dogs in the most horrific way.

In UK we NEED not to only get OUR AFFAIRS in order - by ending Laws like BSL and making Laws that GIVE lengthy prison sentences to any  form of animal abuse - Punish illegal dog fighting ring participants with sentencing and confiscating all Assets  - BUT until countries like Romania and their governments STOP their horrendous crimes against animals - I like many others will continue with my support and petitions to make EU and our 'supposedly animal loving country' ONE DAY STAND up and LISTEN and ACT

Thursday 27 March 2014

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Bassie the Bull Mastiff cross , Sheba the German Shepherd  Molly from Romania Oscar the terrier and Bailey join the dog training class in Maida Vale London W9. Enjoying the scents and activities of Paddington Recreation Ground

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A Dog Training Session in South Westminster SW1 in the dog area of St Georges Square SW1 - Socialising all dog breeds - sizes - rescues - young pups - adults. Dogs are sociable creatures - it is us as humans that do not let our dogs socialise from an early age - but with time patience and 'controlled' interaction any dog any age can be socialised! Next Dog Workshop'  is Sunday  4th May  from 2pm-3.30pm
Any queries telephone 07949523710

Monday 24 March 2014

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Update on canine culture March 2014

What a month it has been - Dog training classes - One to One Referrals - Meeting the wonderful Mercy from Iran - Boarding Domino from Thailand and watching my beautiful girls welcome another young lady to the family - Kiki from Greece - Welcome!

Which brings me to my 'blog' and my subject 'Rescue' - I now have three rescues - my previous dogs Rocks and MJ were both rescue - one saved as a puppy with his siblings from being drowned - the other living in a cupboard with three other dogs for the first six months of his life. Both of them were my introduction to RSPCA and the Mayhew Animal Home and to learning the trials, the tribulations and the JOY of owning a rescue and making me study dog Psychology and most importantly work and learn from 'dogs' themselves. I am sure all those who have 'rescued' 'fostered' or worked around animals  have known those 'trials and triumphs'!!

I work with all breeds of dogs - and each dog is different - with their own personality - their very own soul - and each day I learn more about them  - I only wish I could understand SOME of the human race   - as well!

Rescue - why do we rescue - and I am sure we all wish we could take every dog - mostly staffordshire bull terriers - out of the 'seven day or die' pounds - The streets of Turkey - Romania - Greece - Just go over there and STOP the horrific killings of 'galgos' - of street dogs who are poisoned - beaten and worst when spaying and neutering and governments spending money on animal welfare and humane shelters would NOT only stop the over breeding - the endless strays - it would stop the horror and inhumanity that is going on this very day.

Rescuers - we have amazing dedicated volunteers like Gemma Ashford - Niz Khan - K9Angels that spend their time - and money - fundraise just to get a few of these dogs to safety and a chance of life. Then we get the volunteers in Romania like Arwen Juliana - Adina Artene and others that dedicate their life and soul to the street dogs - neutering and spaying against all the odds. Then there are our friends from the other side of the atlantic who share the thousands of cats and dogs - young and old who each day are put on USA's death row - pledging their donations hoping that just one rescue would come forward - one guy I love to the max (though I have never met him ) - Gary K - Sharon  M  - a lady that is humbling in her pursuit of rescue for so many - and Ruth from CA - amazing people - a canine and felines 'lifeline'.

Lastly but not least our beautiful poundies - in UK - so many I can not name just one  - of the small rescuers - the fosterers - the transporters -  without listing them all but they know who they are - and the work they do - sharing - united in their aim - Get that poundie OUT - SAFE and shedding tears for the many that do not LEAVE through the front door.

Animals are gentle loving creatures whom we domesticate - often abused and cruelly used for greed - for gain - or worse - and yet so many - rescued - or picked up as strays or 'cruelty cases' just look for that love - that hand of comfort - and yet because of  our failures end up in pounds - shelters - or taken because of laws that are meant to protect but destroy and the 'victims' become the 'ones on trial' and the abusers walk 'free' - my last word - CHANGE THE LAWS and stop the abuse - CLOSE DOWN puppy farms - and stop the over breeding and abuse - NEUTER AND SPAY your pet and be responsible for their lives and STOP the thousands of unwanted litters being killed.




Sunday 16 February 2014

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Dog Classes @ Paddington Recreation Grounds W9
                                                                                            Dog in Training
                                               

 What a great day - well okay a bit wet and a bit windy but a great session with the dogs that braved the aftermath of the storms and though this is the second to last session - two new dogs and their owners joined us - Prada a bullmastiff mix and Holly a cockerpoo!!

Bailey  the staffie was there much improved - well done to his owner Chris (who I am also mentoring in 'working with dogs') - - Oscar well - Oscar was still very verbal especially to the new 'guys' but his owner is sure he is improving!! Good to see Sheba the German Shepherd this week - was 'pulling on  the lead' still but her recall and social skills had vastly improved. The weather was too much for Molly the Romanian and B the staffies owner was not feeling too well (hope you feel better soon).

Prada and Holly 'introduced' themselves' to the others - and in the 'playtime intermission'  - interacted well with the other dogs - Oscar the terrier 'barking' for the biggest dogs to 'chase him' - a lady came into the enclosure ' without checking if the dogs were okay for her young nine month old hound'

NB It is always important to 'check' if (especially a pack of dogs are in an enclosure or even just another dog) that they have no 'behavioural issues' if the dog and owner are unknown to you.
Because often the reason why the dog is in an enclosure (Not always - But) because a) it does not get on with others dogs b) it could be too over excited and jump on small dogs c) it does not like other un neutered males or d) the bitch is in season.  It is always best to check first before YOU open that GATE


Back to my class - I really enjoyed today and felt pleased with the positive response especially from the newcomers and being a smaller class today I could give more individual training to each member.

Gave out 'doggy homework' to Prada and Holly - yep and their owners as well - next week being the final class until the spring.

Wednesday 12 February 2014

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Friday 14th February

I will be at the Grand Union Pet Boutique @174ShirlandRoadLondonW93JE on Friday 14th February between 1pm-2.30pm to give Free advice on dog behaviour, toilet training, diet,  dog laws and any dog anti social problems.

After a Free consultation if you feel your dog will need a one on one then we can make an appointment for a training session in your own home and local park at a set fee.

You are welcome to bring your dog - have a cup of coffee or tea and a friendly chat about your faviourite pooch!

Nearest tube stations are Warwick Avenue  (Bakerloo Line) and Westbourne Park (Metropolitan) Buses 6, 36, 187 and 414

Look forward to seeing you

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Tuesday 11th February 2014

Met up with Ghost the White German Shepherd and his owner for a one to one referral  - Poor Ghost is only six months old and yet has had two homes already - thankfully his third owner will never give up on him. Ghost has never been socialised with people or other dogs but he has not a bad bone in his body.  One of his problems is he pulls on the lead and another is he jumps up suddenly whenever he sees another dog - he wants to 'meet and greet' but with no social graces to another dog and a member of the public it can be quite intimidating.  When he actually sat and I held out my hand to him - he licked it.  A Beautiful dog and I am sure that with 3 more sessions Ghost will be a pure pleasure to walk and to interact with other dogs. Next session 18th February.

Sunday 9 February 2014

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 Dog Classes in the wards of South Westminister

St Georges Square SW1 -Dog Area - another day of dogs, owners and offering advice and training tips to the residents of South Westminster. The weather was not too bad - the rain did start but not for long and I am sure I saw the 'sun' trying to find a way through the clouds.

First on the scene was one year old Lucy a little staffie cross - her owners had only had her a short while and wanted to stop her 'pulling on the lead' - 'help' with her recall' - her reaction to other dogs was very good and she was always the first to back away even when a large white Samoyed stole her ball and 'growled'.  Lovely little girl - I worked with her owners on her recall and we walked round practising 'lead control' regarding the pulling on the lead.  Stella the cockapoo  - well thank goodness she is black - she was tearing around 100mph in the muddiest puddle she could find - But she had to leave early - her owner had got the times wrong - her walking on the lead and recall has improved greatly in just a week. Then there was Boatswain A very handsome 'do what I like' German Wiemar pointer - I spoke to his owner who wanted some advice to 'prepare for the forthcoming baby' (the human kind!!) and her husband will come to the next session next week to get some help with recall and to get Boatswain more sociable with other dogs. And How can I forget 'Tubbs' the leader of the pack of Minature Wirehaired Dashunds -  who liked to 'be very verbal' on entrance to the park or when some other dog dared to come into 'his kingdom'.  A few words about using non verbal and the 'block' for negative behaviour and verbal reward for POSITIVE actions - he is a very clever dog and could become a 'star pupil'.  Frazier the Beagle was listening intently (I am sure) about the 'barking at other dogs' lesson and showed his appreciation by not barking - but his little jack russell companion definitely wasn't having it - But he was quiet - well for a moment or two.

Of course the lovely labs came in - straight up to my bag which one of their owners kindly put out of their way especially with Alfie - he can smell a good treat when he sees it  Didn't see Polly the ridgeback /bullie  today - her owner works shifts but will come to the next workshop which is Friday the 21st February 12.30pm-2pm. Lucy the staffordshire Bull Terrier will be also coming and Boris the patterdale - Also Alfie the little terrier and his 'canine partners in crime' will be coming too. The workshop is giving dog owners and their dogs a more one and one - so I can cover individual 'issues'

I am so blessed to work with dogs and people that want the best for their dogs and also when some local resident came over to me and said ' I can not believe the difference in that dog in one session- Great work' (dogs are very quick to learn - it is US as owners that sometimes find it takes longer to learn!!).  Its always nice to be appreciated  but I too have to thank  Westminster Council  who decided to take action on education and responsible dog ownership and care in the community and help me set these classes up. I just wish other councils would take the same action.

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8thFebruary, 2014

What a turn out today - considering the wind and the rain - In fact everyone was on time - all the dogs raring to go.

The Dog Enclosure @PaddingtonRecreationGround was wet and muddy but good enough for the class to begin. Bailey the staffordshire bull terrier was bouncy as ever and he was quick to 'sniff out' that I had dog treats in my pocket - following me around like 'a lovesick pooch' - typical male!!

There was Ime the Beagle with her Polish Mum and Dutch Dad  - recall is not really a Beagles priority in life - Food is Ime's first love - and Hugo the pomeranian who definitely was Top dog with his female owners.  'Mouthy' Rudi the English Bull Terrier pup at four months old thought 'mouthing' at peoples ankles was great fun - Sorry Rudi 'Thats why you are here at 'Dog Skool'!! Old Faithfuls Molly the Romanian GSD x and B the Staffie welcomed the new 'doggy members' with a few 'friendly but warning barks' - Oscar the terrier cross was back to his Bark ' Look at me' self. Then Lovely 'Ghost' the white German Shepherd - at six months with two homes already behind him was bouncy jumping up - just wanting to meet and greet - but did not know how to react around other dogs and people.  Not an aggressive bone in his body but I could see his owner was getting stressed and as there is a 'Free one to one referral' place funded by the Ward Budget I have arranged to meet them both next week.

We were meant to practice the recall today but as we had newcomers we did the 'walk to heel' 'how to block 'pulling on lead' and at the end we had recall - which was fun!!  In between we also had a 'free play time' - this is where dogs are off lead (inside the enclosed space) and can let off some energy and then back to 'training mode'

five dogs did 'text' - weather permitting they would return next week and 'Ella's owners are meeting for a one to one. Bassie's owner is away and will be back on the last session.

I was still pleased with the turn out and met a lovely lady called Becky who helps run a rescue who thought the classes were a great idea!

Well thankfully the weather held out until after the class had finished - so same time same place next week

2pm-3.30pm @ Dog Enclosure (entrance off Morshead Road W9) Next class 15th February

Thursday 30 January 2014

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Dog Advice Surgery @GrandUnionPetsW9

Grand Union Pets Boutique asked if I would like to use the downstairs basement  of their Boutique to hold a 'Dog Advice Surgery' and I decided to do a couple of 'pilots' before Christmas 2013.  The 'Dog Advice Surgery' would be where you could come and see me with your dog (s) - have an informal chat bout your pup - adolescent teenage pooch or your Senior (who might still need a few social graces - or maybe just  a few tips regarding 'Senior moments').  A nice cup of coffee or tea - an informal chat and a few hopefully helpful tips - and all free -  if a one on one is needed then you can book an appointment with me to come to your home  for a private training session at a set fee.

The pilots went well but unfortunately due to illness and other commitments - the dates for the Surgery to commence officially were delayed but tomorrow @ 2.30pm-3.30pm I will be at Grand Union Pet Boutique 174 Shirland Road Maida Vale W9 3JE  www.grandunionpets.co.uk - and ever other week after.

Hope to see you there

Tuesday 28 January 2014

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Eventful January 2014

Well I am back in circulation after the ups and downs of Christmas and the New Year, falling foul of a 'popular virus' that put me out of action for two weeks - and my poor dogs to 'block walks' and 'garden confinement' for any outdoor scenery!! Chelsea my little 'rescue' chihuahua/jrt corgi was by my side taking on the role of 'DogNurse". Missy my other rescue gave me the occasional 'are you okay mum and is there enough dog food supplies' and Kiki my new girl slept glad to be safe and secure inside a loving home.

I started the new year with the 'blessing'  of a little dog that was put out on the streets of Greece after her owner passed away and if had not been for 'North Wind' who took her off the streets until she could be safely be brought over to UK by Niz Khan a dedicated animal advocate who spends her time helping street dogs around the world and in UK.  My new 'sister' to my two girls Missy Blue and Chelsea Rose has settled in well and with her gentle ways has already enriched my life.

Dog Training Classes commenced 18th January in the wards of Harrow Road - the weather was for a change!!!! - rather wet but at Least it was not too much for Max the Jack Russell, B the lab/cross staffie, Bailey the staffie and Molly from Romania - who braved the torrential!! Five Polite Pooches 'texted' their 'absent' apologies.

Last Saturday (25th January) - what a difference the sun makes and even though the rain fell again from the skies - it  waited till the class had finished before its downpour!!

There was the 'teenager' GSD Sheba from W9 who came bounding in the dog enclosure - straight into the muddiest part - till she spotted Oscar the jrt x who was all barks and growls - you can guess who backed down - Sheba of course!! Then Handsome Bassie a Ridgeback/mastiff cross such a gentle boy with a thing about jumping up.

We had Bobby the beagle pup who constantly pulled on the lead and needed to learn 'recall' - Bailey the staffie was back and loved his new pals - Molly and B made an entrance - gradually getting to know Sheba and Bassie. It was also good to see Ghost the white GSD who his owner rescued from an unsuitable home six months after her beloved Cedar passed away. Poor Ghost has a lot of issues - he is a lovely dog but he has had no social interaction with dogs and the interaction from humans before was not good memories.

We first of all walked in twos around the enclosure practising walking on lead and with another dog - then we walked outside in the open green area past dogs off lead - kids in the park - using the 'block' and the lead control  for pulling and jumping up.

Then back to the dog enclosure for off lead and to show how to 'recall' your dog - which will we will be concentrating in the next session.

Then for doggy homework to be given out - 'Walking on lead' 'stop' and 'block' to stop the pulling -
Can not wait until next Saturday - same time same place

These classes are Free to all residents of Queens Park and W9 Wards - 2pm - 3.30pm
next one is 1st February at Paddington Recreation Grounds London W9 @ the dog enclosure (entrance of Morshead Road) W9