HAPPY NEW YEAR!

Elle, I hope that Lana recovers well and that her stitches stay where they should be. Lins, glad that Louis is now 100% better. Love all the photos and videos. Mathilde certainly looks like she enjoys agility. James, your new bike looks super. Summer certainly looks rounder to me, too... fingers crossed. And, I just love that photo of Tinker.

HAPPY NEW YEAR, EVERYONE. MAY 2009 BE HEALTHY, HAPPY, SUCCESSFUL AND PEACEFUL FOR YOU ALL
love Sue, Ian, Beecham & Bosco (& Buggi & Soelvoer the cats)


November 2008

The dogs do love the beach don't they Elspeth, lovely photos.
I got some pics of Domino outside today, it was so frosty here, up on the hill all the trees and bushes were white all day, will post some pics tomorrow.

Ann, Mathilde is really good at agility, how long have you been training her? I love the way her tail wags all the time, she obviously loves it.

HAPPY NEW YEAR TO ALL.

I hope 2009 is a healthy, lucky and happy year for everyone.

(Off to top up my drink!)

Happy New year everyone!!!

By No means are these her best pictures but i took these this morning when at the beach with other munsters from Scotland, she had a whale of a time running and jumping like a complete lunatic with the others, chasing birds too. I think she is part tazmanian devil in her the way she goes in circles.

It looks like Mathilde had a fantastic time doing agility, I love how she lies down and paws what is in your hand the last time round the poles! She is looking great too.

I hope everyone has had a great christmas, and birthday too for you James.

Elle, big hugs for Lana, hope she heals up quickly!

Mathilde Agility Lesson on Monday

HAPPY NEW YEAR

Ghillie, Frank, me and the collies wish everybody a HAPPY, HEALTHY & SUCCESSFUL 2009.

Have a great one!!!!

Love & Huggzzz Lindsey

Happy New Year!!

Hi everyone - haven't written for ages but have been reading!  Have just loved all the christmassy pictures and stories.  Many happy returns James - sorry it's late!  

Happy new year one and all and here's hoping for health and happiness (including mums and pups!!!!) in 2009.  xxxx

Happy New Year one and all.

Happy New Year to you all. May 2009 bring us all good health, (well it better be - the amount of hospital appointments I have!!!) good fortune (must keep buying lottery tickets!) - and happiness, (with lots of munsterlanders!!!!) and may they all stay that little bit healthier, and less accident prone....... LOL.

HAPPY NEW YEAR ALL..........................

Lana

Elle, it sounds as though she's feeling less sorry for herself, if she's pushing past the others! Hopefully the stitches have been in long enough not to tear out easily now.....I know what you mean about being tired, the worry and stress is emotionally exhausting isn't it? With Louis's latest escapade (with the ball) it was only a couple of days of worry and that was bad emough.....he's recovered 100% now by the way Sue, thanks for asking after him.

Cotton Wool anyone

Actually no - thinking about it - what she needs is full body protection armour and a crash helmet - with full visor!!!!

She is feeling a lot better - I am a nervous wreck! and oh so tired!!! The stitches and area on her side are quite prominent (like the rest of us - she put on weight over Christmas!lol) and as she pushes past the other dogs or goes through doorways etc., I flinch! worrying she is going to catch and pull one of the stitches!!!!

Lana

Sorry to hear Lana's isn't well. Hope she heals quickly, I bet she's making the most of the attention, I know Domino would. Give her a hug from us.

Lana

Sorry to hear about Lana, Elle - hope she heals quickly. I think running at 100 miles an hour everywhere is one of the reasons Munsters are so accident prone! Hope the cotton wool works )lol

Lana

Lana is not exactly unwell - well she is unwell - but due to injury, not illness.

She is feeling very uncomfortable and sorry for herself, with at least six or seven stitches in her side, obviously having to keep her safe - not knock it or anything - not easy in a busy household... this is her second "accident" needing a general anaesthetic in six weeks! first time the stick stuck in her nostril - and now - this....... accident prone or what?

When she recovers going to get a big ball of cotton wool and wrap her in it............ lol

Glad you liked the pictures, and yes I think Summer looks more rounded so quietly confident.

Elle meant to say I hear Lana has been poorly so hopes she is soon fit and well again, James was very concerned about her, well he does have a soft spot for her.

Domino looks very happy with her bone, and Sophie, Tarka has been suffering with the same windy problem, terrible when she does it and manages to wake you up in the night with the stench!!!!!! ugh.......

hi

Love all the photos and love the one of Keisha on the photo page and nice bike James.
Ilka and Sid have been getting left overs or stuff thats been hanging around a little too long like but it really makes Ilka fart it really stinks Charlie now calls her stink bomb, she drops them near you then walks off.
Karen I'm sure munsters always plan to get there owners wet or muddy.

Great photos Ali, very clear pictures. Domino looks like she is enjoying her bone Karen. Maggie, like all of us eat too much I think in the way of treats over Christmas and has had a few runny poos so being careful what she eats for a while - that goes for me too!!!

On the walk this morning everything was frozen but Maggie still managed to find a bog that wasn't frozen and came out black! Worst of all the hose was frozen so I had to fill a bucket of water from the kitchen to wash her and I'm not sure who got more wet me or her!

Your new photos are good Ali, like the new bike James. Summer looks pregnant to me, she looks a bit more rounded than usual doesn't she?

Just one photo of Domino with one of her many Christmas presents making a mess!

Some pictures from the last few days

The birthday boy with his new adult size bike!!! Prima and Zeta. (Zeta digging, just for a change!!)

Pretty Prima

Expectant Summer?? We will know in a few days.......

Tinker worn out by all the celebrations!!! Too many crackers in this house! or should that be too many ARE crackers in this house!!!!!

All taken with my new digi camcorder!!!!

Sorry James.

I was sort of late - and early for this one!! gave you a pressie early, but wishing you Happy Birthday - late!!!! Could be worse - could be the other way around!!!!

Apologies for everything else I am behind with - cannot think of anything specific - but bound to be something!!!

Thanks

Thank you everyone for all my birthday wishes. Having a lovely day, went out yesterday and spent all my birthday and Christmas money on this iPod touch which I am using to write this! Mum bought me a wicked bike which is red, White and silver. Which I assembled with my toolkit from my Christmas present. Once assembled we went and pumped up the tires and I rode it part the way back. Very strong disc brakes and smooth gears, mum and dad also gave me a blue and silver helmet to suit! The dogs gave me a brilliant game called final fantasy2 for ds. As you can see I've been totaly spoilt! Merry christmas for three days ago, forgot to go on for I was to busy opening presents! Looking forward to seeing you tomorrow auntie judy and thank you for singing down the phone, I won't let mum delete it!

Happy Birthday James! Have a great day, big hugs.....Lindsey, Louis and Cassie x

Hope everyone had a great Christmas! We had a very busy day and am just recovering! James I hope you enjoy your birthday today - great to have it during the holidays. It's bitterly cold here today so difficult taking my hands out of my pocket to take pictures but got a few this morning and a couple of videos which I will try and upload later.

Love the photos that have been up and the video Ali, which was clearer the second time I watched it.

Happy Birthday James

Have a lovely day

HAPPY BIRTHDAY JAMES

HAPPY BIRTHDAY JAMES

Hope you have a lovely day and some great pressies.

Huggzz Lindsey

Happy Birthday James

Hope you have a great Birthday!!!!

HAPPY BIRTHDAY JAMES

Have a great day
Great video Ali
Elspeth nice to hear from you love the pic and get well soon.

Happy Birthday Jamie

Lots of love

Mum, Dad and all the family x x x x x x

Happy Birthday James xxxxx
from Judith & the Rixbriar gang

Ali

I had the same trouble with videos from my camcorder, I couldn't keep the quality while converting the video into a file small enough for the Internet. I'll have another go and see if I can improve on my efforts from before. Your video was clearer the second time I viewed it, it took a while to download first time. The dogs look like they having a lovely time.

Hope you all had a nice Christmas, just managing to get back on here after family parties.
Will catch up tomorrow.

Dunno why it isn't very clear, to see it on my PC it is crystal clear and smooth running, I converted it to a WMV file would that account for it?? Can anyone help please........

Ladies in waiting enjoy a run

Had to try out my new Christmas pressie, a digital camcorder, not the most interesting (the movie obviously not the camcorder!!) but the girls and Logi enjoyed it. Diva looks pregnant, well she is 4 and a bit weeks, but not so sure about Summer, what do you reckon, she is definitely acting pregnant, changed in character quite a bit. As for Logi, well he's just my handsome boy without a care in the world!!!!

MERRY CHRISTMAS EVERYONE!!!

Sorry I am late, it has been rather hectic here over christmas. I hope everyone enjoyed theirs and I will say in advance HAPPY NEW YEAR just incase I do not get back on before then. Also, I apologise but there have been so many posts that I will never remember to reply to each of them, but great pictures etc from everyone!!

I am so jealous of you having all that snow Joanne! I adore snow and Ceilidh goes crazy for it. Maybe need to get her up the glens this week to find some. Will need to shift my cold before I do though, it is just awful! I have gotten rid of the sore throat by drinking pineapple juice but if anyone knows how to stop a constantly running nose please let me know!!!! Think tomorrow will be spent recovering in bed!!!

This is a very old picture when Ceilidh was only 5 months old. Will get new ones this week once i am back on my feet again.

Happy Birthday James for tomorrow, you have a card in the post. I missed the post for christmas cards so i can only apologise to everyone for that, I really have been up to my eyes with things to do! Also, thank you for the gift, much appreciated.

Ali, when are the club memberships needing renewed by? I have got to get mine done soon.

Merry Christmas

and massive catch up (take 2 - the first disappeared into the ether)

April 08

MERRY CHRISTMAS everyone

That's fantastic news about Diva, Ali; all fingers crossed for you. And, Happy Birthday to James for Sunday.

How awful about the Weim puppy. I have resisted bringing anything with berries in this year. Buggi the Birman is even worse than Bosco for chewing anything and he's (Buggi) as fast as lightening....

The photos on here are lovely. Sorry for not mentioning them all. I loved the snowy ones of Duke & Duchess (& the close up). How scary that they escaped from the car and the woman didn't wait outside the shop! (& Logi escaping, too). I hope that you enjoyed your Christmas Day, Joanne and that you have a lovely 2nd Christmas when Andy comes home.

Ceilidh is such a pretty girl.

That's a brilliant photo of Ilka & Sid. It was great to read about Ilka's shooting days. Well done, Sophie; it sounds as if she did really well.

If I don't get on here again before New Year - Happy New Year everyone. But, in the meantime, :), MERRY CHRISTMAS

Sue

ps How is Louis, now? That must have been terrifying.

HAPPY CHRISTMAS

To you all

HAPPY CHRISTMAS WITH LOVE FROM ALI, ANDREW, JAMES AND ALL THE BLITZANS

Merry Christmas

Have a great Christmas everyone from Ringo, Stig and all of us in Northampton.

Happy Christmas

Loads of great pics and slide show, love the snowy ones Joanne but my favorite has to be the one of Diva.
Would put a pic up but am on the lap top not the computer in the office so no pics might put one up later or tomorrow.
Have a great Christmas Every one

Merry Christmas from Hudson and the Wilkins !!

Just a quick post to Wish you all a Merry Christmas and Happy New Year. Soo many posts i can't keep up! Great news about Diva looking forward to seeing the puppy pictures. xx

Happy Christmas Eve

From the Blitzans, including the pregnant ones!!!!!!!

Lovely slide show and photo's everyone.

Merry Christmas to all from Karen & Maggie!

A few photos taken from the second year of life with Maggie

Great photos Joanne! I think the last time we had snow that deep here was 1963, the year I was born so don't remember it just been told several hundred times how hard it was having me at that time )lol!

Thanks for the plant info John.

Thank you for the info on the "Winter Cherry", I sure wish they would have bold warnings for such things! Ali, Andy wont be home this Christmas, he has to stay at the rig, but i'm having my kids and their signifigant others and my dad and his wife for turkey dinner and we'll just have to have another christmas the 2nd week of Jan when Andy comes back home! Cheers!

Elly May is looking for her ball, took her a few but she always finds it!

That Plant

I would make a guess that the plant is this one.

Solanum pseudocapsicum (Jerusalem Cherry, Christmas/Winter Cherry)

It is an excellent plant addition, especially for container gardening, whether indoors as a houseplant or outdoors in the garden. Such a decorative evergreen plant with brilliant orange-red cherries to enjoy! Meaning, simply to see, touch and feel but never to consume as they are inedible and poisonous to humans and pets. Be mindful please!

Often for sale in supermarkets and a relative of the deadly nightshade.

Seem to be posting a lot on poisons at the moment but Christmas evergreens and decorations can be really nasty as well as some seasonal foods (grape derivatives)

What lovely photos Joanne. I would love to have all that snow here, I'm sure we haven't seen anything close to that while Domino has been with us. Hope you all have a lovely Christmas.

I've just come back from taking the children Christingle making, so we're feeling a bit more Christmassy now. Domino keeps sniffing at the presents under the tree, she knows it's that time of year and she's worse than the kids for snooping around for her presents.

Joanne, Duke, Duchess and Elly May! I want to be where you are! The snow looks fabulous, I can't remember the last I had a white Christmas (in fact Sister just told me it was 1983)....have a great time over Christmas and New Year x

Joanne

Have posted to you but know I missed the date so expect newsletter and things after Chrsitmas, sorry not very organised, gorgeous pictures, god I would love snow like that. Cuddles for Duke, Duchess and Elly May, hope you all have a wonderful Christmas and that Andy joins you for some of the celebrations. My Andrew is working until Jamies birthday which is on Sunday.

Merry Christmas

Wishing everyone a Merry Christmas! and to Diva.......Good girl! We've had a lot of snow but the weather is not too cold and the dogs love it!!! We have been doing a lot of snowshoeing. Take care this holiday season and Merry Christmas from Joanne, Duke, Duchess and of course the crazy Springer Elly May!

Mathilde

I think Mathilde weighed about 25kg but that was several weeks ago now. She doesn't keep weight on easily cos she too burns it all off. However, I do think she has filled out a little more since the summer and looks better for it. I seem to remember Bentley was the same as a young dog but at 6 years on 29th of this month is OK at last.

Mathilde

Yes, you're right - Mathilde is his litter sister. I'd be interested to know what Mathilde weighs at the moment. Zydo is 29.3kg but it's been a hard slog to get him to put any weight on. He's looking lean and fit now rather than too skinny. He seems to just burn it off running! Wish I could say the same!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

Merry Christmas

Congratulations to Diva on her good news :)

Merry Christmas to everyone and every dog from the James household (Me, Kaia, Loki, Megan and the rest of the menagerie)

Another good day...........

...out for Ilka, she had a couple of little disagreements with couple of dogs at the start but after we taught her few manners was fine and running round with them. When beating she couldn't have been better, last drive there were pheasants all over the place most of the dogs got a bit excited (inc Sid) but Ilka stayed steady but at the same time is always keen am really pleased with her, she loved it, also she did not once even grumble at any one, on the back of a pickup, Harold (is quite big) was sat with his 2 spaniels and she went up to him for some fuss! She also found a water troff which had to be jumped in (what is it with munsters and troffs?) Shes now sleepy and all soppy, she got to do quite a bit more than last week, though've now got a slightly fat lip lol, slipped and hit my mouth with a flag, have to say it woke me up a bit and I watched where I was walking after that lol and theres no shooting next week for some daft reson that Ivor made up.

That plant sounds really bad they should make it more obvious having a dog die is really bad let alone if it could have been a small child.

Zydo looks lovely love his colour and ears too.

Sorry no don't know what the plant is called that's the only information I have.

Karen, loved your Jacquie Lawson electronic Christmas card and did you hear the interview with Valerie Singleton on Radio 4 about 6 p.m. this evening as she was raving about them. Never heard of them before but will certainly use them. Thank you for card and introducing them to me.

Plant

Ann do you know what the plant is called?

On another not so Christmasy note - I just got back from taking Tilly to the vet - nothing serious just her three month check up, but while I was there a chap brought another cavy in with a very serious looking injury to it's neck. Apparently while walking today it was viciously attacked by two American bull dogs. The owner in trying to get his dogs off the cavy got injured too. The vet said this is the second incident he had had involving the American bull dogs. It's quite frightening to think they are out there and not being muzzled! Poor little cavy, hope he's ok.

Zydo is a beautiful boy - lovely colouring and very pretty head.

Zydo

I agree, he has the most amazing ears and looks like a right cheeky monkey!

Zydo

Trish, I think Zydo is Mathilde's litter brother. What a lovely looking boy he is.

A FRIEND JUST SENT ME THIS SO PASSING IT ON.

just in case you're not aware...
my uncle just phoned from Dublin to let me know about a radio interview that was just on RTE. a man phoned in to say that he had just lost his weimaraner puppy to a plant that was brought in to their house from TESCO to add to their christmas cheer. turns out it's not so cheery.they put the plant on their window ledge and went off to bed as usual later that night. a few hours later they woke to a loud cry, ran downstairs and found their pup dead on the floor. it had eaten a couple of the cherries, and died instantly. his friend, who is a vet, told him that had he been there, he couldn't have saved the pup owing to the deadliness of this plant to our little friends. so, if you have one of these plants, get rid of it. apparently there's a health warning on the label, but it's printed in very, very small writing. also, as this man said, if it's for sale in a big store, you sort of trust it automatically. sad story, but hopefully the result will be that more will be saved.
please forward it on to any dog people (also toxic to kids)

Christmas Greeteings

Merry Christmas and Happy New Year to everyone on the blog. Hope you and your dogs have a great time and that the weather's good enough for us all to have some super sobering up walks! Zydo and Trish

Diva

Contratulations Diva! Well done, glad the long trip was worth while!

DIVINE DIVA

Oh Ali, I am sooooo pleased for you. Now you can have a truely happy Xmas. Please give the wondergirl a megahug from me and Frank. Just off to tell Ghillie the great news.
Love & Huggzzz
Lindsey

Great News - well done Diva - Clever Girly!!!!

Great News about Diva's puppies

I can really get excited now, hope all goes well.

Well done

Diva, babies on the way, cant wait for puppy cuddles xxxx

GREAT NEWS ALI AND DIVA

Hope it all goes well.
And HAPPY CHRISTMAS ALL

NEWS, NEWS, NEWS, NEWS, NEWS, NEWS...

DIVA IS PREGNANT

Several blobs seen, no numbers as i never ask for numbers too hit and miss, but did see several and that was in one spot, absolutely over the moon!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

The 2400 miles to and back from Sweden seem worth it all................

And Judith, yeah right..... ;-)

Oh you know me so well Mrs C and i am also a green freak recycle recycle, I am only thinking of the planet

Me too!

So.....Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year, from Lindsey (Lins), Louis and Cassie ! x

Apart from the seasonal sentiments which Judith does means, she also means she has not had the time to send out her Christmas cards, so don't be too disappointed if you don't get one............................................................. am I right Judith?

By the way

HAPPY CHRISTMAS FROM ALL OF US BLITZANS

Same with me too!!!!!!

Everybody here at Rixbriar would like to wish you all a very MERRY CHRISTMAS & A HAPPY NEW YEAR. xxx

Louis ....and dog toys

So glad to hear Louis is ok Lins. You just don't realise how dangerous toys...even balls... can be sometimes. I was reading one of the glossy dog mags about toys and didn't actually realise that there are no safety regulations pertaining to dog toys. Some toys particularly those that are mass produced in countries like China, have dangerous toxicity levels.... scarey ...even more so if you have children in the house that will also handle them. I am amazed at some of the soft toys with easily removeable/chewable bits...so easy for a dog...not just a puppy...to choke on them.
Some years ago we had a collie bitch who nearly died when she chewed a rawhide bone and got a piece wedged across the roof of her mouth. Fortunately we were there and it took two of us to hold her down while we removed it.
I think that the most important thing to remember is to assume that there is no such thing as an indestructible toy and to never never leave them with toys when you are not there to supervise.
While I am on my soap box can I also remind people to NOT THROW STICKS OR PLAY WITH STICKS, with their dogs. If you want to know why, take a look at http://www.colliecorner.com/stick-to-toys/ This is not the only site which gives info and advice, there have been some truely horrific and fatal accidents. Don't let this happen to one of your dogs.
On that somewhat sombre note, can I take the opportunity to wish everybody a very Happy Christmas and a healthy, happy and successful 2009.
Lindsey.

Balls !!

Karen, we think the ball was one slightly smaller than a tennis ball. I haven't seen it yet, as Louis is still zonked from the anaesthetic, I'm allowed to collect him from the surgery later from the night staff. Cassie is desolate with out him and was a big coward when we went for our walk earlier, she ran away from a doberman whereas normally she would be really bolshy.

Louis

Oh my goodness Lins! Not a whole one surely! Glad he is ok!

Louis

Good news! The vet's just phoned, Louis will be fine, he had a rubber ball stuck down his throat! What a worrying afternoon, I don't think I've ever been so scared......

Absolutely Lins, I would give anything for Ceilidh too. Sure the vet will get him better but it is a worry.

Thanks Karen, Elspeth and Ceildith. Yes, he is insured, but I'd sell my kidney if need be......I know you shouldn't have favourites, but he is definately mine, he's seen me through so much, I don't know what I'd do if I lost him. But, must think positive, no news is good news (hopefully).

Poor Louis

Hope he gets well soon, let us know how he is.

Louis

Oh Lins I hope he is going to be ok!! Do you have him insured? Either way I know that all you want is for him to be better and home to be spoilt rotten. Big hugs to both of you from me and Ceilidh xxx

Louis

Really sorry to hear Louis isn't well Lins. Hope he is ok - let us know.

Louis

Had to take Louis (the GSD) to veterinary hospital this morning. He was having problems breathing, like he was choking, and retching up white frothy vomit. They've kept him in to investigate whether its a lung infection, kennel cough (but most likely not) or a collapsed larynx. Total estimated cost = £1000, but I don't care, I just want my handsome lad home safe and well x

Poor Prima, and great pics of Ceilidh and may be I should tell Ilka about these Good Citizen's Awards.

Ann

Sorry, for some reason I misread your post - thought you were asking what is needed for the silver when in fact all you were saying was that you were going to find out. I had the sheet in front of me at the time as we were given them yesterday at dog class. (feeling rotten with a bad cold at the moment so I will blame that. Typing it out has helped me remember what is needed though )lol

Ceildih & Prima

Just love the photo of Ceilidh, the top one, so funny! And Prima sitting in the suitcase, poor thing doesn't want to be left behind this time!

Ann, for the silver, which I think you can print off from the kennel club you have to:
1 - play with dog - (to demonstrate the dog will play with you in a controlled manner)
2 - Road Walk - (to demonstrate dog can walk along public highway under control)
3 - Rejoin Handler - (dog to remain steady, off lead, while the handler moves away, the dog is then recalled when instructed)
4- Stay in one place for two minutes - (in any position of your choice and in sight but have to stay in position told to)
5 - Vehicle Control - (get in car and stay quiet while owner gets in and turns engine on and then get out)
6 - Come away from distractions - (dog come away when asked from other dogs etc)
7 - Controlled Greeting - (not to jump up when someone comes and says hello - Maggie's hardest!)
8 - Food manners - (being good while you eat)
9 - Examine dog - (self explanatory)
10 - Responsibility and Care (questions)

As I say you can get a more detailed print off from the kennel club.

Ali - it wasn't Maggie - we never got around to taking the bronze so now we are working towards silver and hoping to take both at the end of Jan/Feb 09

Sorry for the red eye!

I think she was a bit upset with me for not getting a close up, the top pic was taken when I was trying to upload the pics, she saw the camera and climbed on top of me sticking her face right up to it! What a cheeky monkey!

Good Citizen's Award - Mathilde as awarded Bronze at the end of August this year. Need to find out what's needed for Silver now.

HELP NEEDED

Please help a senile, blonde, senior woman............ ME!

I know some of you have recently passed KC Good citizen awards, with Jo and Sue being the latest two but who else was it, did Maggie? and was it Ringo? I can't remember so please fill in the blanks need it for the LMC newsletter

Thanks you

Confusion!!!!!

I am hoping to pop down to my Parents this weekend, deliver thier presents and spend a day or two with them, (so long as the Bank theft is sorted), and Prima took one look at my case and promptly packed herself!, she has squeezed herself in so much she was lying down, but getting the camera made her sit up, I think she missed me when I went to Sweden!!!!!!

I've caused confusion, (nothing new there then!!!) I will try and explain

Jo Banks and Gus won Gold Good Citizen

Joanne Neuman had the escapies (as well as me last week)

Judith has been having a disaster free time, (touch wood), too busy working!!!

Jo and Gus

I've just come home after a few days away - and have to say - was astonished Jo and Gus did it! Most of ours have their Bronze and Silver Awards, (all seven def. have Bronze, and most also have their Silver!) but think (? sure Jo will correct me!) Gus is the first to have his Gold - the others did not continue with formal classes. Gus is going to start working towards the new Platinum test in the New Year.

Jo and Gus

Brilliant job, well done!! Judith, that must have been really worrying, the only time my dogs have wandered is when I've been in France, at my Dad's, mainly Cassie in the summer, who kept going off which my Dad's hunting dog. Thankfully, the local farmer is a good friend and neighbour and kept phoning to tell us he'd sent them home!

well done

Jo and Gus - superb work - you should both be justifiably proud :D

Congratulations Jo and Gus. That's quite some achievement to get your Gold.

Thank heavens your dogs were OK and you got them back Jo, just shows it's worth having them micro chipped.

Ali, Logi, he is naughty finding his way home, a whippet I used to have would climb out of a fan light window and run down the road to the primary school where I was.

Joanne

I have just read and caught up after a manic weekend. God you must of been panic stricken, and yes why didn't they just wait with the dogs outside the shop or at least open the door and ask if someone had dogs with them.
I can imagine you just went weak at the knees and felt sick. The only mishap we've had like that recently was my golden boy, who is always so well behaved. Three in season girls blew his mind, I got home from Sweden, Andrew took Logi to work in the landrover, with the soft top, and.......... Logi ripped the back side window and came home, scary as it involved crossing and travelling up a road, phew it's the what if's that freak you out. A good friend, (Sue Woods) once said to me don't think of the what if's always think Thank goodness instead, and it does help.
Hugs to Duke and Duchess please and tell them I am not impressed with the fright they gave you!!!

Jo and Gus

CONGRATULATIONS TO JO & GUS ON YOUR GOLD AWARD. ....What an incredible achievement. You and all your family must be so very proud. Well Done.

Lindsey

Welldones and Happy Birthday

Happy Birthday JIGGY!!! I know it is a bit late but only just managed to get the time to come on now.
Huge welldones to both Jo and Gus and Sophie and Ilka!!!
Joanne that must have been terrifying having the dogs get out of the car and run off like that!!! Glad you got them back safely at the time.

Gold Award

!!!CONGRATULATIONS JO AND GUS!!!

CONGRATS JO AND GUS

WELL DONE

Diva sounds so funny, finger crossed for pupies from both.

And thanks it was really nice to get out with Ilka and show her what she's for, she loved it. Karen I think you'd do well with Maggis from what you've been writing on hear I think she'd know what to do. Hope you can find time too Lins.

Congratulations

CONGRATULATIONS to Jo Banks and Gus who passed their GOLD Good Citizen Test yesterday, very well done to the pair of them.

As for puppy news, Diva is acting pregnant, she feels far too big to get up on the sofa and needs help!!!! She sits on the sofa with her back legs spread as if she has the biggest tummy in the world, (she's not even 4 weeks yet!!!) She acted the same with Jiggy's babies. Scan for Diva on Friday. As for Summer she is acting more demur a little morning sickness but otherwise she is fine.

Joanne can you e mail me your address please I have lost my address book and very far behind in all the Christmas preparation!

Sophie very proud of you and Ilka, well done and it's lovely to read what a close relationship you and Ilka have, well done.

Ilka

Thanks for putting that up Sophie. Ilka did really well and you must feel very proud. I'd love to have a go at doing something like that with Maggie but neither her or I would know what to do and I fear Maggie would run riot! She did once bring a pheasant back to me though I'm not sure how she got it. I don't think she killed it as there were no marks on it at all and after she dropped it at my feet looking very pleased with herself she spent 10 mins spitting the feathers out of her mouth so not sure she would do it again. You are bound to get a few spats between dogs I think when you meet a bunch of them and Ilka seemed to handle herself well with the dogs she didn't like. Having lots of men around her patting her will do her the world of good and like you say great socialisation. Well done.

Sophie

Sounds like you and Ilka had a good day. I wish I'd had the chance (and time) to start Cassie hunting, but what with the panto I've been in, time has been short! And, of course, we missed the gun dog training day recently. Hopefully we'll get some work in soon! Good luck for next time x

Ilka's first day out working......

Got there and Ivors (person who runs the shoot) 2 spaniels came to say hello (they fancy Ilka). Waited for people to turn up, were about 15 men squashed in the barn with us in the middle and she was really good and even let a few of them stroke her (over the day there were only two people she didn't like). (note: she was on the lead a bit but). First drive was a small bit of cover crop and let her off near the end and she put up a pheasant and was fine. Then try not to waffle so, she found a runner and picked it up but was not quite sure what to do so dropped it and it went in a stream so she just stayed with it so someone picked it up, would have liked her to fetch it but am happy with that as at least she didn't crunch it, then another bit of beating and let her do the last bit again. Then the last drive in some woods took it steady but let her hunt and she was brilliant going through thick brambles and every thing and staying quite close. Then went on to pick up and she found another pricked bird, again did not pick it up but stayed with it until we did, think she will get the idea theres another dog on the shoot who didn't pick up for the first 2-3 days but now does so think she'll be similar. Sid had a scrap with a spaniel though Sid never starts scraps (but does not back down) the spaniel was a bit funny it stared at Ilka too and so Ilka almost had a little scrap I had to stop them (I really don't like it when dogs do that) they just did not like it and there was a black lab Ilka did not like that much either but she was good with all the other dogs. So over all was really good and it's brilliant socialising for her shes got to improve.

Happy Birthday to Jiggy and belated to Judith

Hi Ringo and all of us in Northampton sends Happy Birthday wishes to Jiggy and a belated one to Judith, Hope you both had a great day. I Have been having trouble reading for long since eye op. Also I forgot to say happy Birthday to Diva any puppy news yet? Poor Ringo has had an ear problem which we think was cause by his constant water snorkelling . Has any one else had this problem ? it is clearing up now with some powder inn his ear.

Birthdays!

Happy Birthday Jiggy and happy belated Birthday Diva from your sister Duchess! It's horrible reading about all the creeps stealing dogs! Elly May and Duke would be easy targets as they love everyone, Duchess is much more protective and always barks when strangers are walking on the sidewalk in front of the house. All three are microchipped and this came in very handy when they were just over a year old. I was coming back from obediance class and decided to stop a the grocery store in town, while i was inside the store the back window of my SUV must not have been closed tightly and the dogs all got out, they did not have on their dog tags because they still had their training collars. As you could imagine panick struck me when i returned, I called Andy at home and 20 minutes later he got a call from a vets office saying they had all my dogs, they had scanned them and tracked us down. The people who found them said they were waiting at the front door of the grocery store, which is where i wished they would have waited with the dogs, as i only got a carton of milk and was no longer than 5 minutes! But i did however get them back and that was a very happy moment!

Many Happy Returns Jiggy!

Happy Birthday Jiggy

HAPPY BIRTHDAY JIGGY

Ilka sends lots of licks.

Happy Birthday

Jiggy is 10 today, happy birthday , xxxxx

Stolen Dogs

A difficult one to handle I think here.
I walk mine in a low population area but they come all over the place with me in the back of the car.
I have never encouraged them to be friendly to people in the streets and they do tend to get noisy with people coming up to them, rearing up and growling. Can be a problem but I dont want them to trust every person they meet, I dont.

I love the story of the woman who was irate at the garden centre who had woken up the sleeping dog and was cross about the dog growling at her. I think I would have surpassed the dog's growling with the stupid individual if she went near my dogs and to tap on the window is pure ignorance.

I did see a dog last night that I dont think will be stolen, it was on the end of a lead my friend, a security guard, was holding, it is a German Shepherd with a decidedly protective attitude to its dad. He was enormous, in fact both of them are, the dog is 33 inches at the shoulder which puts his head at about 4 feet from the ground standing. I have not seen a shepherd that big before.

One of the first things I did on moving in was to secure the garden. It is possible to get in but only by climbing over 6 feet gates and walls. My neighbour was doing some work on the shared outbuilding roof. He hadn't told me he was going up there but the dogs pegged him for an intruder and all hell broke loose. I know its all noise but the volume and quantity when they get aroused is spectacular.
I do not let them off the lead if there are people on the fields. I dont want them to make a mistake with anyone.
When they are left in the car it is locked and they are protective of itif people go close, not noisy but aware.

I cannot conceive of them being stolen but I do not think I would take kindly to an attempt to do it.

I had heard that about Oxfordshire Sue. Oxford Centre has a high percentage. The last time I was at the Iffley Rd vet which is close to Oxford City Centre, there was a lady in there with a staffy. She told me she had just got him back after he was stollen on a walk in University Parks 2 months previously. She saw him being taken and put into a car and thinks that he must have escaped as he was found walking the streets. His collar was gone but he was chipped and they were able to contact her (which just goes to prove that chipping is still important). She had tears in her eyes when she was telling me, so obvioulsy overjoyed to have him back.

My mum is always worried as whippets are high priority for racing.

Sue, that is worth a thought. I have not done that kind of training with Ceilidh, she stands nicly when I talk to someone but if she is off the lead or if I do not talk to someone she pays no attention to them and if they pay attention to her she does jump back and bark which is not the best either but she would never go for anyone, just barks because she is scared of some people.
The idea of vet surgerys having a scanner on their doors is great but then that will only get some dogs. Like you say so many are not taken to a vet surgery.

Theft

Apparently, Oxfordshire has one of the highest rates of dog thefts in the country. Pet dogs are often stolen. Some say they are used as bait for fighting dogs on an encampment about 7-10 miles from here. In the south, and west from here in Gloucestershire, dogs are taken for hare coursing.

As others have said, we should all be aware. I leave my dogs in the car a lot because I take them out and about. The car I got rid of had a locking tailgate, but I haven't got one at the moment. However, the current cars have alarms which work with the dogs in them. I NEVER leave the dog in a car unlocked for even a second unless I'm standing next to the car changing my boots and I NEVER leave the keys anywhere; they are only ever in my pocket unless they are in the ignition because I'm driving. Having said that I cannot lock when I'm at the garage as fuel does not go in unless the car is unlocked - with it locked, the fuel flap is locked shut. But NEVER EVER leave the car unlocked (even if there are no dogs or kids in it) if/when you go into the garage to pay. NEVER.

As Elspeth said, dogs are often taken from gardens or out on walks. I know of someone who was out working his dog (not here; the dog was hunting a good 100m away and someone junped out and caught the dog with a rope lead or something. Luckily, the dog was powerful and struggled and the owner hollered and the dog got away.

I don't see how tags indicating neutering would help. I doubt if anyone looks at the tag before they steal. My vet said that he would love a country where scanners were fitted into the veterinary surgery door frames and all animals with chips would be automatically scanned when entering. However, how many people are going to walk into a vet with a stolen dog?? Perhaps a lost one, but a stolen one? Unless, of course, they are looking for a reward. I suppose that if someone stole a dog for breeding purposes and then saw the tag, they might dump the dog? One can only hope, unhurt.

Once at a local garden centre, a very irate woman approached me when I returned to my car. She told me that my dog, Wooster, was very unfriendly & nasty. I asked her what she meant. She said that he had been asleep, so she tapped on the window, so she could look at him, but he growled at her!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

It is very difficult when we all work so hard to have dogs who are friendly to people given all the Dog Laws, but perhaps we should ensure that they only greet people on our command (it would need to be everyone, I would have thought, ie anyone who doesn't live in the same house) - does anyone, or does everyone, do this automatically?
Sue

Dog theft

It makes me feel sick at the thought of anyone taking one of my family, Tarka loves everyone and is never suspicious so she would be a massive worry as would Zeta. I think Summer is the best deterrent, she is like a thing possessed when in the car, she hates to see anyone get near the car and really snarls at the window quite embarrassing really, (Just ask Elspeth, Judith and Karen) but think /I shall let her get on with it as I doubt anyone would get away with their hand if they tried to get in the car, I always lock the car and often have three or four dogs in there. All mine guard the car though and Summer is not easily won over ever since she broke her leg. Once she knows you she is adorable but she has to take her time to get to know you. Horrible thought though someone stealing one of the family, I couldn't bear it.

Absolutely Karen, Ceilidh is usually better when it is busier thank god. As for the muddy part, I think we all have the same problem after 5 minutes, good way to put them off of stealing one! That and Ceilidh does not like strangers who try to talk to her, she is so wary and on the ball with people it is scary.

I think my biggest fear is Maggie being taken on a walk, not so much here in Holton but if I take her to places where there are more dog walkers as she doesn't always stay that close. My only hope is that she is often so muddy after the first five minutes people would rather give her a wide birth - as she looks more like a mangy mutt than an expensive breed )lol

HAPPY BIRTHDAY DIVA

Ilka sends lots of licks sorry it's late.
Theft, yes we're are normally careful, and sounds like theres some good points on hear for preventing it.

Dog theft

It is all fine and well not leaving dogs in cars but what people also need to be aware of is that you can have your dog stollen from outside of the car too. Leaving them tied outside shops, on walks and even in your own house or garden! I am sure I put up several months ago about a woman who had one of her golden retrievers stollen from her own garden. She must have been targeted as a breeder or at very least watched for some time to make sure of the perfect time to snatch the dog. She was in the house when it happened and had only looked away from the window for a second.

I know you cannot keep your eyes on your dogs at all times, but be aware of your surroundings and anything different or any odd characters in your area. For show dog owners it might be an idea to withold your addresses from the programmes. I know I have not done this in the past but I am going to take care to when entering in the future.

I don't think there is any solution apart from not leaving dogs in a car. We try not to leave Domino in the car (though I'm not sure a burglar would dare go near the car when Domino's barking at them), if she is left it's only for a few minutes to pop in a shop and that would be in busy place. I always lock the car though as I would whenever I leave the car. I'm not sure putting a sign up saying they're neutered would deter a dog snatcher either. So sad that dogs are taken and then probably not treated very nicely.

I agree Judith, I don't think chipping or tattooing would help if a dog was stolen, only if lost and someone is actively trying to find the owner. It's a horrible thought. I saw a programme on stolen/lost dogs once and it was quite distressing seeing the poor owners some who never gave up looking even years after. I don't leave Maggie in the car but that's mostly because she hates being left, but if I did I would definitely lock it. Maggie has a Barjo dog cage which if bolted would be hard to open, but I would never feel comfortable doing that because in an emergency situation you may need to get them out in a hurry. I have heard of people steeling cars not necessarily aware of dogs being inside so it would probably be better to lock the car and even then not out of site for long.

Not Sure

How a micro chip or tattoo will help with stolen dogs. Some of mine are chipped but i thought ,that if the stolen dog went to the vets 1, not all dogs are scanned, 2, that their was some silly information act that stopped the info being passed on, read something about it in the dog paper a few years ago.
I try not to leave my dogs in the car, we had a spree of dog napping when i first got Sarek, Same has showing, dont like leaving them on the bench.
Not sure what we can do about this, I just dont want to think about why they may have taken those poor dogs.

Not in the Festive Spirit.

I don't post oftens thesedays, but this one upset me and feel is important to remind you all of the threat of dog theft.............

I am sure many of us have received the same e-mail, regarding spaniels stolen from a car - so - what can we do to safeguard ourselves, and OUR dogs!

Easy to be wise after the event - and I am sure we have all left our dogs in the car whilst we "nip" into the shop etc., but - what should we do? (maybe lock them in a secure, bolted in, cage, and lock the car)

OR for identification afterwards? micro chip or tattoo, photos from all angles, what else??

One thing I have seen is a tag that says "this animal has been neutered" (no temptation to steal for breeding then!) anyone else have ANY ideas? (and what do you think of THAT idea?)

come on, this could affect you all one day..........

Belated

Very belated birthday wishes to Diva! Sorry, I'm performing in a panto which opened this week, so life is very hectic at the moment. Any free time is being spent learning songs, and lines and with the dogs! First night was tonight, think it went well, we had a critic in so will find out soon!

HAPPY BIRTHDAY DIVA!!!!! LOTS OF KISSES AND HUGS FROM YOUR BABY CEILIDH!!!

Not her greatest picture but it was the only one where she is stood still!!! I hope Diva is being thoroughly spoilt today especially since she should be eating for many puppies too (hopefully)

SORRY it's late

HAPPY BIRTHDAY DIVA OR SH CH BLITZAN LEAH'S STUNNER JW.
FROM AUNTY RIXBRIAR ALL THE MUNSTIES AND A VERY UPSET EX- HUSBAND XXXXX

Happy Birthday & Thanks

Many thanks everyone. I am indeed very chuffed. Bosco celebrated with Beecham by eating a giant piece of paddywack. Now their tummies are not at their best and Beecham has the most frightful wind. It's the last time I do that, that's for sure!! Thanks Ali; it would be lovely to have it in the Club Newsletter. I was going to sort out a photo, but I got sidetracked and I know I've more than a few waiting to transfer to the folder to go out on a disk to you, but we're behind with those too.............

Sorry for getting muddled, Sophie. I was trying to remember back without scrolling....

Happy Birthday to Diva; lovely photo.

I'm off to Yorkshire first thing in the morning. Bosco is being scored. I was going to have him done by my vet to save him the journey and Beecham a day in the car, but due to a dreadful communication error with my vets last week - I knew I should have spoken to the vet himself and no one else - it never happened. Bosco was pretty wild having been kept waiting all day without food & exercise, which isn't really good for sedation unless it's urgent! I won't forget trying to sedate a very high Wooster when he had a big gash under his eye and I'm sure the vet won't either........

Thanks again

Sue

Well dones and Happy Birthdays

Well done Sue and gorgeous Bosco, I will make sure it goes in the LMC newsletter, lots to fit in this issue. Lovely pictures everyone. Well done to Loki and you Sarah, what a handsome boy.

Judith wasn't overly spoilt but James and I will try to spoil her a little bit when we meet up with Judith soon.

OH YES IT'S DIVA'S BIRTHDAY TODAY - 5 YEARS OLD

So Happy Birthday to the hopefully expectant Mum

Sue and Bosco

Well done on getting your Bronze

WELLDONE SUE AND BOSCO!!! Great achievement! You must be very proud!

HAPPY BIRTHDAY Judith sorry so late.
Loads of beautiful pics.
Sue, first WELL DONE with Bosco, and sorry no, thought I said (well was meant to say) something like 'one week might just have to go for it' and it was a sold day on Friday but we should be going next Sat with Ilka not sure if I can't wait or am worried she'll go utterly ballistic, hoping that she'll get the idea of picking up though and I think she'll love it what ever.
Hope the Dalmatian finds a home.
Diva looks lovely and pregnant fingers Xed.
WELL DONE Loki and Sarah.
Ghillie is lovely, looks like hes going to be quite spotty.
And dog training went well again last week, it was the last week before Xmas so games and things Sid was a star, he won fastest bonio eater and joint first in sausage catching, and Ilka was quite well behaved and did the little agility course inc see-saw well so was pleased with her.
Think thats all for now.

Well done Bosco!!!

Way to go Bosco!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

Well done Sue, you must be over the moon

CONGRATULATIONS BOSCO AND SUE!

And....

Really well done Sarah & Loki. You both looked really good in the Ring and Loki behaved beautifully.

The photos of Ghillie are great; he is looking good.

Love the photo of Wanda. I was once told that it was impossible to have ginger female cats, but we had one next door and you have one, Ali, so that was clearly rubbish. Diva looks huge - to me she def looks different - all fingers and toes crossed for you.

That was a horrid end for that poor Ridgeback, Elspeth (sorry I forgot before). There used to be 2-3 dogs killed in Richmond Park every year because dog walkers refused to change from their normal walking areas during the rutt. I think there was a similar problem in Bushey Park (Hampton Court). It's so easy for even a well-trained dog to forget itself. Poor dog. Poor chap.

I hope that the Dalmatian finds a good new home.

I had an email about a whole pile of spaniels stolen with the Landrover they were in; the theft was near Tonbridge in Kent. I don't know whether the thieves were after the dogs, the vehicle or both.

Karen, it was a pic from the holiday. I didn't have many that weren't blurred thanks to the wind and rain. It was Beecham. Here is another. Beecham is way in the background of this one and Bosco in the foreground.



And, I'm still reeling - Bosco passed his Bronze Good Citizen this morning!! In fact, everyone in both the groups did really well.

Sue

Catch up and HAPPY BIRTHDAY!!!

Happy belated birthday Judith, Ceilidh sends big kisses!!!! Were you spoilt?

Fantastic pictures of all dogs this weekend, I promise to get some tomorrow to pop up here. Ali, I think Diva is looking very pleased with herself and she certainly has dropped like you said! All fingers and paws are crossed for you!

Looks like Maggie and co had a fantastic time yesterday! Ghillie is really growing quickly, I remember Ceilidh having knobly knees and I was worried but it means they are going to have lovely well built legs so do not worry too much, he will grow into them!
Welldone to Sarah and Loki for you best puppy and first show! He is standing really well in the picture, a beautiful big lad and well deserved prize! I really must find ring craft to get Ceilidh back into it again, and a few open shows though I am terrible at missing the closing dates.
Ann great picture, which dog is it?
Really hope I have not missed anything out, so busy on here this weekend!!!

Lyn

Ghilli is really developing isn't he? Starting to get his own features, but still extremely cute!

GHILLIE -9 weeks.

Herewith latest piccies of my not so wee boy. It is quite scarey ...he reaches my waist on his hind legs!!! He has very knobbley knees...I can only hope he grows into them. My house has been reduced to a state of absolute chaos...we have never had so many dog toys around at one time. We took him to Pets at Home yesterday for a little socialisation and of course came home with...yes...more toys.

Well done Sarah and Loki on your first show. Sarah he looks really lovely.

Ali, Diva looks positively 'porky'...lots of wee girls to choose from please.

Well done Sarah and Loki. Hope you enjoyed yourselves.

Ali, I think Diva does look a little different, very happy expression. Hope you are right!

Congratulations!

Well done Sarah and Loki, you should both be very proud of yourselves!

Ali, Diva does look blooming....

Lokis first show

First some nice news - Loki had his first show today and did really well. Although he was the only puppy entered, so got 1st and Best Puppy by default but really felt he deserved it as he behaved wonderfully for me. Very happy this afternoon now :)


Secondly - Ali, Diva does look a little chunkier than normal, fingers crossed.

Blooming Marvelous??

Wanda one of our cats who loves to go on the dog walks. Diva, now it's too early to tell, but she is Leahs daughter who always showed signs early. Diva is now nearly two weeks, and to me she has dropped at her tuck up. Andrew reckons she is blooming, what do you all think, bear in mind I don't want to tempt fate but fingers crossed what do you all think?

She looks well anyway don't you think? Now we will have to see how Summer does.