Dog Classes Saturday 23rd February 2013
A cold day - a threat of snow but I was determined my 'dog socialising class' was going ahead!!
I had arranged for the classes to take place in the (Dog Area) Paddington Recreation Ground W9 - a lovely big enclosure for safe and security for all the dogs taking part. With registration forms, (for Public care and Liability Insurance and monitoring for Westminster Council) - training leads - water bowls (yes even in cold weather it is still good to have access to water for thirsty 'trainees') I was already to go - just needed some 'dogs' to bring their owners!!!
First to 'Bounce' through the gate was Ringo a lovely 'american bulldog' rescued from Bullies in Need - raring to 'socalise himself' with lots of vigor - then along came Junior a GSD x all the way from Spain - he was fearful of other dogs.
Bella the labrador came bounding up to me - her owner holding 'for dear life' to the lead! Alaska and Arakeetall (beautiful names) two very friendly huskies - Alaska the female had a little stubborn streak and only wanted to do what Alaska wanted! Rocky a handsome six month lurcher/GSD x came in - needs to learn 'lead control' and to be more confident around other dogs. BB the staffie cross came in with Molly the Romanian dog rescue eight years ago - both determined to show the 'other dogs' how 'it was done' as they had been to 'quite a few' classes before.
Oh and lastly but not least Little Ava a little staffie pup with her 'foster mum' looking a bit overwhelmed with all the 'Big guys'! Ava is from the mayhew animal home trenmar Gardens London NW10 - I offer a place in the class free to a puppy or dog from a rescue home for one or two sessions.
The first class is always to assess the dogs and the 'owners' behaviour and to socialise the dogs with each other - all on leads - it is also important that owners discuss in a group their own 'views' on their dogs behaviour before we practice 'walking on the lead' together in pairs - and to show how to stop the dogs from pulling - using the 'block'.
It was a great group of dogs - and I look forward to next Saturday 's session - and I hope they do too!!
Saturday, 23 February 2013
Wednesday, 30 January 2013
Welcome to the year of Canine Culture 2013
Its the first month of the new year and canine culture wishes every dog owner and of course their canines a great and exciting new year ahead.
So far this month though the snow was great for our doggy pals to enjoy running and playing with snowballs and racing up and down in the parks and woodland!! - it was not the ideal weather for 'puppy training'!! Walking on lead and teaching adventurous or nervous pups not to pull when you yourself are slipping and sliding on the icy pavements is NOT a trainers or owners ideal training session - and definitely not for the 'pup in training' - the best weather to sit and stay, when a warm fire and their favourite bed was waiting for them indoors!
So dog training classes and one to one sessions and assessments were put on hold until late January and Early February.
Last week as weather improved I had a one on one with Alfie the maltese terrier and his pal a terrier mix called Ken (who apparently was a bad influence on Alfie) - of course nothing to do with his owner or Alfie's!! Alfie and his canine partner in crime Ken were barking at certain dogs - like the local rottiweiler or the Bull Mastiff or maybe a twelve year old greyhound - the Bigger the bolder the bark. Also jumping up at people to say a friendly but boisterous hello! So after meeting in the local park and letting both dogs have a good run together and let off steam while I got some more information and history on Alfie and Ken we left to walk the streets of Grovenor Road SW1 and Belgravia
Firstly I wanted to observe how Alfie and Ken's owners reacted to their behaviour - everytime they saw another big dog approaching they would verbally 'reassure' their dogs and saying 'Be good boys' - and don't bark etc. - what they were doing was condoning their behaviour - my training method is to use verbal or 'food' reward to praise a dog when they have done something to earn it only.
I walked Alfie by my side and when he went to Bark I ignored him - stopped with the lead turned his head round to the side and immediately he stopped I verbally praised him 'Good Boy' and after a few stops - turns and 'good boys' he was walking more confident but without the barking and as for Ken he trotted by his owners side with not so much as a 'squeak'. Giving both owners doggy homework - for the next seven days - and then for our next session - food guarding!
One of my other clients is Bella a chocolate labrador four months old - such a good student until that labrador's stubborn trait appears!! Perfect sit and stay - recall - its still a game of hide and seek for her owner - still early days. 'How do you do it Crissie - she comes straight to you - but not to me' her young owner cries - practice and patience and making yourself exciting and the main focus of your dog!! Back next monday for another training session with my canine 'peter pan'.
Dates of classes and workshops will be on my website soon www.canineculture.co.uk and if you just want a friendly word of advice on a new pup, rescue dog I am sure I will have some time to spare on 07949523710
So far this month though the snow was great for our doggy pals to enjoy running and playing with snowballs and racing up and down in the parks and woodland!! - it was not the ideal weather for 'puppy training'!! Walking on lead and teaching adventurous or nervous pups not to pull when you yourself are slipping and sliding on the icy pavements is NOT a trainers or owners ideal training session - and definitely not for the 'pup in training' - the best weather to sit and stay, when a warm fire and their favourite bed was waiting for them indoors!
So dog training classes and one to one sessions and assessments were put on hold until late January and Early February.
Last week as weather improved I had a one on one with Alfie the maltese terrier and his pal a terrier mix called Ken (who apparently was a bad influence on Alfie) - of course nothing to do with his owner or Alfie's!! Alfie and his canine partner in crime Ken were barking at certain dogs - like the local rottiweiler or the Bull Mastiff or maybe a twelve year old greyhound - the Bigger the bolder the bark. Also jumping up at people to say a friendly but boisterous hello! So after meeting in the local park and letting both dogs have a good run together and let off steam while I got some more information and history on Alfie and Ken we left to walk the streets of Grovenor Road SW1 and Belgravia
Firstly I wanted to observe how Alfie and Ken's owners reacted to their behaviour - everytime they saw another big dog approaching they would verbally 'reassure' their dogs and saying 'Be good boys' - and don't bark etc. - what they were doing was condoning their behaviour - my training method is to use verbal or 'food' reward to praise a dog when they have done something to earn it only.
I walked Alfie by my side and when he went to Bark I ignored him - stopped with the lead turned his head round to the side and immediately he stopped I verbally praised him 'Good Boy' and after a few stops - turns and 'good boys' he was walking more confident but without the barking and as for Ken he trotted by his owners side with not so much as a 'squeak'. Giving both owners doggy homework - for the next seven days - and then for our next session - food guarding!
One of my other clients is Bella a chocolate labrador four months old - such a good student until that labrador's stubborn trait appears!! Perfect sit and stay - recall - its still a game of hide and seek for her owner - still early days. 'How do you do it Crissie - she comes straight to you - but not to me' her young owner cries - practice and patience and making yourself exciting and the main focus of your dog!! Back next monday for another training session with my canine 'peter pan'.
Dates of classes and workshops will be on my website soon www.canineculture.co.uk and if you just want a friendly word of advice on a new pup, rescue dog I am sure I will have some time to spare on 07949523710
Friday, 4 January 2013
Goodbye to the year of 2012
2012 was a year of - protesting for the end of a law that is NOT in touch with reality and judges the 'breed NOT the deed' - The BSL which condemns a 'bull breed' for what he looks like THAN whether he or she has committed any 'Deed' that comes under the Dangerous Dog Act or not!! We said good bye to Lennox on 11th July 2012 after he spent two years in captivity - imprisoned in kennels - with Victoria Stilwell and Roger Mumford amongst Lennox's supporters from around the world. RIP Lennox we are still fighting The authorities of Belfast for JUSTICE for you and your family!
I met Peter Egan, Sarah Fisher Anthony Head - but best of all were all those Dedicated and Inspiring EndBSL supporters who came out in rain or shine to the Peaceful Protest in Westminster to spread the word - End BSL Now.
In 2012 I continued by dog socialising classes in the Harrow Road Ward, Queens Park Ward and the wards in South Westminster - promoting responsible dog ownership and socialising both dogs and owners. I attended with Missy Blue my jack russell cross in local educational events with school children in libraries and schools about 'Being safe and secure around dogs'. Held four dog shows featuring 'I luv my staffie' Ms Diva, Mr Slick and other categories.
This years Community Cup for the Most Responsible owner was won by David and his husky Shadow
2012 we petitioned for Anna the Elephant abused and kept in captivity for years to be freed and she now knows the safety and protection of a sanctuary where she tasted the joy of freedom. Along with Brian May we stopped (for now) the culling of badgers in UK and will continue our fight into 2013.
Mozart, Buttons, Clash and Betty and Sebastian - felines abandoned on the streets of london got homes - Betty the tabby going as far as Gloucester!
Cuba a blue staffordshire bull terrier was found after a massive united facebook appeal and reunited with her family. Ruth a 'cruelty case' found her dream home after a long wait - www.mayhewanimalhome.org.uk never gave up on her. Missy and Bru two romanian dogs found their forever home with my amazing friend Lynda Bryan and also I met the True K-9Angels - three glamourous ladies that work so hard for the animals in Romania, Thailand and other countries were their is no support or animal care for the strays. Many of us campaigned and tried to find homes not only for the poundies who have only 7 days to be rescued or reunited before they are euthanized - in UK but for dogs and cats in USA that were on Death Row. Maria Daines, Marsha Jones, Nicola, Lynda, Laura, Gary Kaufman, Sharon, Paul - Natasha Mason - Vicki - Coleen - AnnMarie - So many Animal Angels to thank for their commitment - dedication and Never giving up.
Sadly we lost some beautiful feline and canine pals - Handsome Gentleman Dizzy - Magnificent Khan - Lovable Mutley a staffie I homed with a great family over ten years ago. Sweet Polo a little cat rescued from a hoarder who had over 150 cats and also Pookie. Georgie a little terrier, Tiny Jessie a little yorkie rescued from abuse. Louise's little Angel - May you and all the animals that died that could not be saved. May you all run free - free from Pain.
And last but not least - I became a Doggy Godmother to 'Crissie' the little pup from Romania - thanks to a special lady Ghita - what an inspiration you are
May I wish everyone a happy new year and pledge to continue to fight for The welfare and protection of all animals, and to educate the uninformed - make laws harsher for the abusers NOT the victims.
2012 was a year of - protesting for the end of a law that is NOT in touch with reality and judges the 'breed NOT the deed' - The BSL which condemns a 'bull breed' for what he looks like THAN whether he or she has committed any 'Deed' that comes under the Dangerous Dog Act or not!! We said good bye to Lennox on 11th July 2012 after he spent two years in captivity - imprisoned in kennels - with Victoria Stilwell and Roger Mumford amongst Lennox's supporters from around the world. RIP Lennox we are still fighting The authorities of Belfast for JUSTICE for you and your family!
I met Peter Egan, Sarah Fisher Anthony Head - but best of all were all those Dedicated and Inspiring EndBSL supporters who came out in rain or shine to the Peaceful Protest in Westminster to spread the word - End BSL Now.
In 2012 I continued by dog socialising classes in the Harrow Road Ward, Queens Park Ward and the wards in South Westminster - promoting responsible dog ownership and socialising both dogs and owners. I attended with Missy Blue my jack russell cross in local educational events with school children in libraries and schools about 'Being safe and secure around dogs'. Held four dog shows featuring 'I luv my staffie' Ms Diva, Mr Slick and other categories.
This years Community Cup for the Most Responsible owner was won by David and his husky Shadow
2012 we petitioned for Anna the Elephant abused and kept in captivity for years to be freed and she now knows the safety and protection of a sanctuary where she tasted the joy of freedom. Along with Brian May we stopped (for now) the culling of badgers in UK and will continue our fight into 2013.
Mozart, Buttons, Clash and Betty and Sebastian - felines abandoned on the streets of london got homes - Betty the tabby going as far as Gloucester!
Cuba a blue staffordshire bull terrier was found after a massive united facebook appeal and reunited with her family. Ruth a 'cruelty case' found her dream home after a long wait - www.mayhewanimalhome.org.uk never gave up on her. Missy and Bru two romanian dogs found their forever home with my amazing friend Lynda Bryan and also I met the True K-9Angels - three glamourous ladies that work so hard for the animals in Romania, Thailand and other countries were their is no support or animal care for the strays. Many of us campaigned and tried to find homes not only for the poundies who have only 7 days to be rescued or reunited before they are euthanized - in UK but for dogs and cats in USA that were on Death Row. Maria Daines, Marsha Jones, Nicola, Lynda, Laura, Gary Kaufman, Sharon, Paul - Natasha Mason - Vicki - Coleen - AnnMarie - So many Animal Angels to thank for their commitment - dedication and Never giving up.
Sadly we lost some beautiful feline and canine pals - Handsome Gentleman Dizzy - Magnificent Khan - Lovable Mutley a staffie I homed with a great family over ten years ago. Sweet Polo a little cat rescued from a hoarder who had over 150 cats and also Pookie. Georgie a little terrier, Tiny Jessie a little yorkie rescued from abuse. Louise's little Angel - May you and all the animals that died that could not be saved. May you all run free - free from Pain.
And last but not least - I became a Doggy Godmother to 'Crissie' the little pup from Romania - thanks to a special lady Ghita - what an inspiration you are
May I wish everyone a happy new year and pledge to continue to fight for The welfare and protection of all animals, and to educate the uninformed - make laws harsher for the abusers NOT the victims.
Sunday, 9 December 2012
Bereavement - Tribute to Tilly the Rescue Cavalier
Animal Bereavement
Losing a beloved pet is one of the darkest days of your life - it is like losing one of the family - and sometimes it is hard to know when the time is right. A vet will advise you but they can not make your decision for you - they can not tell you or show you the pain.
Only your precious pet can tell you that - (if only they could) - maybe they seem slower -yes but they are getting old - they are still eating (maybe less - but then they do not go out much any more). Our ideal dream is they 'kiss us goodbye' and then go for that eternal sleep in our arms - but sadly it doesn't often happen that way - and we have to decide 'when' it is time. I have had to make the decision twice in my adult life - and it was heartbreaking - I hope this poem I wrote in tribute to an ex mayhew rescue dog 'Tilly' helps those who might have to make that 'saddest decision' this Christmas.
May I Leave Now
May I leave now - Will you let me say a Final Goodbye.
You gave me MY LIFE - You Came at the Final Hour - You Came
- You Rescued Me - And I Loved you from that Day.
May I Leave now - Take that Final Walk - Take the Step - Beyond
You will always have my heart but please set my spirit free
At first I fought - I did not want to go - I did not want to leave you -
I loved you so
But now I am feeling so old - and now I feel the pain
And Oh I can See the Shining Light of Freedom - reaching out
to me
Again
May I leave now
Can I say my final goodbye
Sweet Mama - Please Please don't You Cry
I can see you are afraid - I can see it in your tears
I can try and give you one more day - but then that is really all I can give
My body is so tired - and I know it really is my time
So thank you for loving me - You know I love you too
Hold me one more time - and let me hear you say
Goodnight my Darling and
send me
On my final journey
TODAY
Losing a beloved pet is one of the darkest days of your life - it is like losing one of the family - and sometimes it is hard to know when the time is right. A vet will advise you but they can not make your decision for you - they can not tell you or show you the pain.
Only your precious pet can tell you that - (if only they could) - maybe they seem slower -yes but they are getting old - they are still eating (maybe less - but then they do not go out much any more). Our ideal dream is they 'kiss us goodbye' and then go for that eternal sleep in our arms - but sadly it doesn't often happen that way - and we have to decide 'when' it is time. I have had to make the decision twice in my adult life - and it was heartbreaking - I hope this poem I wrote in tribute to an ex mayhew rescue dog 'Tilly' helps those who might have to make that 'saddest decision' this Christmas.
May I Leave Now
May I leave now - Will you let me say a Final Goodbye.
You gave me MY LIFE - You Came at the Final Hour - You Came
- You Rescued Me - And I Loved you from that Day.
May I Leave now - Take that Final Walk - Take the Step - Beyond
You will always have my heart but please set my spirit free
At first I fought - I did not want to go - I did not want to leave you -
I loved you so
But now I am feeling so old - and now I feel the pain
And Oh I can See the Shining Light of Freedom - reaching out
to me
Again
May I leave now
Can I say my final goodbye
Sweet Mama - Please Please don't You Cry
I can see you are afraid - I can see it in your tears
I can try and give you one more day - but then that is really all I can give
My body is so tired - and I know it really is my time
So thank you for loving me - You know I love you too
Hold me one more time - and let me hear you say
Goodnight my Darling and
send me
On my final journey
TODAY
Thursday, 6 December 2012
Sunday, 11 November 2012
Discover Dogs Earls Court London UK
11th November 2012
Firstly I must say a message of pride to our soldiers past and present that served our country on Rememberance Sunday - And I wore my poppy with pride.
I was lucky to be invited to Discover Dogs in Earls Court by Natasha Mason who was collecting articles and photos for her new 'doggy magazine' coming out in the New Year Bowowow!!!
We both arrived in the afternoon amidst rescue dogs, show dogs, guide dogs for the blind and many more organisations connected to the world of Dogs! I bounced behind Natasha like an excited jack russell as she took Discover Dogs by storm with her amazing 'meet and greet' - as she explained in avid detail her up and coming magazine.
I wandered over to the mayhew animal home stall and though there had been lots of inquires about Cleo a staffie pup and Rocky a lurcher pup (found in a cardboard box in nearby woodland) - no offers as yet!!! Talked to Caroline Yates Director of the Mayhew and the indespensible volunteers about 'Louie' and 'Ruth' who are two long stayers and then moved on to www.k9-sar.com based in Berkshire - a great rescue - they search - locate and reunite missing and vunerable people - all the dogs in the team are pets and their handlers are all volunteers.
Then I saw 'Darcy a Borozo from the wilds of Russia (in russian Borozo means 'Swift') Photos later - Amazing beautiful dogs that run like the wind. Natasha took some incredible photos!
Last but not least I have to mention Dogue De Bordeux Welfare www.DDBWelfare.org.uk - I was humbled by their aspiring dedication to this beautiful breed - They always offer Rehoming Support and Advice for Everyone on:-
How to combat the stigma towards DDB's suffering from Slobbertis by offering advice and education on how to deal with it.
To rehome DDB's in safe and comfortable homes -
You want to know more about them then check them out on Facebook Dogue De Bordeaux Welfare Twitter @DDBwelfareUK or email ddbwelfare@gmail.com
What a great afternoon of 'doggy heaven' - thanks Natasha for inviting me.
Firstly I must say a message of pride to our soldiers past and present that served our country on Rememberance Sunday - And I wore my poppy with pride.
I was lucky to be invited to Discover Dogs in Earls Court by Natasha Mason who was collecting articles and photos for her new 'doggy magazine' coming out in the New Year Bowowow!!!
We both arrived in the afternoon amidst rescue dogs, show dogs, guide dogs for the blind and many more organisations connected to the world of Dogs! I bounced behind Natasha like an excited jack russell as she took Discover Dogs by storm with her amazing 'meet and greet' - as she explained in avid detail her up and coming magazine.
I wandered over to the mayhew animal home stall and though there had been lots of inquires about Cleo a staffie pup and Rocky a lurcher pup (found in a cardboard box in nearby woodland) - no offers as yet!!! Talked to Caroline Yates Director of the Mayhew and the indespensible volunteers about 'Louie' and 'Ruth' who are two long stayers and then moved on to www.k9-sar.com based in Berkshire - a great rescue - they search - locate and reunite missing and vunerable people - all the dogs in the team are pets and their handlers are all volunteers.
Then I saw 'Darcy a Borozo from the wilds of Russia (in russian Borozo means 'Swift') Photos later - Amazing beautiful dogs that run like the wind. Natasha took some incredible photos!
Last but not least I have to mention Dogue De Bordeux Welfare www.DDBWelfare.org.uk - I was humbled by their aspiring dedication to this beautiful breed - They always offer Rehoming Support and Advice for Everyone on:-
How to combat the stigma towards DDB's suffering from Slobbertis by offering advice and education on how to deal with it.
To rehome DDB's in safe and comfortable homes -
You want to know more about them then check them out on Facebook Dogue De Bordeaux Welfare Twitter @DDBwelfareUK or email ddbwelfare@gmail.com
What a great afternoon of 'doggy heaven' - thanks Natasha for inviting me.
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