Thanks Ali, we are thinking about leaving at maybe 8am so probably get there mid afternoon. That gives us time to have a nice walk and wash her before leaving and the towelling coat on in the car. Another walk on way down and walk when we get there (the aim is to tire her out so she actually sleeps, she gets restless on her first night somewhere and we get no sleep). What time were you thinking on arriving? Drinks sound good to me! Are we allowed to leave dogs in the rooms? Gregor would probably stay with Ceilidh, she is too teenage to leave on her own somewhere other than home or our families houses.
We are just back from ring classes (I have been really bad and missed the last 2/3 weeks just from being really busy and working to get her her bronze etc) The woman saw a huge difference in her and thought she had vastly improved! Then a man swapped with her half way through and she was scared of him. She acted as if he was our strange neighbour, but I have to admit she was not the only dog that looked intimidated and misbehaved for him. Very abrupt and heavy handed. Apart from that she couldn't have done better. Her trot was perfect every time, even when passing inches from the other dogs, so that is a bonus. She really looks like she enjoys it which is all that matters. She will love the show next week with lots of dogs around her and all of the fantastic smells, and the being spoilt rotten. I am a huge sucker for the stalls!

When do you find out how many dogs are in your class etc? Or is that just when you arrive?