Saturday’s Comice was a fabulous success and an exciting event. Peter and I thank all those who participated for their absolutely marvellous effort and for all the hard work both on the day and before hand. We hope to have some lovely photographs of this event in the coming weeks and will post an article on the website. For now, a BIG, BIG THANK YOU!”
We had a wonderfully successful day at our first demonstration for several years. For many of the dogs and their companions it was the first time they had worked in public on the agility course and they all did remarkably well. We congratulate them on their achievement.
Roo in the wheelbarrow
When giving a demonstration our aim is to show that it isn’t necessary to have purpose built obstacles or to go round the course perfectly. What we consider important is the rapport between dog and handler/companion and it can all be fun. Ordinary household objects such as a kitchen stool or a wheelbarrow can be used to give your dog something interesting to use to build up confidence and trust in the commands given. For those who watched us on the day we hope that you enjoyed the day.
La Coupellière – La Bigottière We will be giving another demonstration of agility and some new features showing the skills of the Gun Dogs trained at Grande Daze.
There will be lots of bargains to buy from the Purple Van and all of our benevoles will be pleased to meet friends old and new.
and see below to link to our upcoming demonstration on 25th June
A big thank you to everyone for such an enjoyable day on Sunday, 12th June. We are very grateful to all of those who participated in the demonstration and we hope that the event was a good one to remember.
We also thank the spectators. We hope that those who had a taster of the agility course enjoyed their experience and will join us at the Centre to learn more.
For some of the dogs and handlers in the demonstration it was their first experience in the public eye. We give them a big hug and lots of treats. The rescue dogs showed how the right care, attention and love can heal the difficulties they have experienced in their past lives. Each dog displayed confidence and trust in their human companions, demonstrating how vital our behaviour is in shaping the responses from the dog.
At Grande Daze we endeavour to assist humans and dogs understand each other. We hope that we helped show that it isn’t necessary to be a champion in the agility ring. It is possible to achieve a rapport with your pet by using household objects in a game. Confidence is gained and trust is built without severe discipline. Any mistakes around the agility course are a shared experience and as each session progresses the mistakes are fewer and the relationship between human and canine companions is deepened.
Look out for news on our Facebook pages for details of all of the future sales of bric-a-brac from our Purple Van parked at Manges-Tu? in Gorron https://www.facebook.com/animalcompanioncentre/
Thank you so much for your support and we hope to see you in the coming months.”
See our Youtube videos showing the different team members choosing parts of the course or doing it all! At the end of the video you can watch Gun Dog Training and see the dogs retrieving from the water! See the page – Gun dog training
See the sequence of pictures showing Reboot being educated
Reboot watching her handler walk away
Walking away and about half way to the screen.
Behind the screen, so, only partially hidden. Reboot is curious but remains in place.
Reboot still waiting – a tiny white speck in the shadow against the grass
Eager to receive a reward for such good behaviour.
Reboot is a Jack Russell Terrier 18 months old and is in the early stages of her education. As you can see she sits and waits, watching her handler walk approximately 25 metres away and then stand behind a semi-transparent screen for the count of 10.
As her handler returns, Reboot waits excitedly and she is then given a reward for her good behaviour.
As this exercise progresses the distance will increase and the screen will be made opaque. It is intended to build rapport between dog and human and confidence that the human will return.
HOOPERS
Hoopers is the new discipline being used for the more mature people and their pets. The discipline is inteneded to help the older dogs maintain their health through gentle excercise. We also use this activity for the puppies, so, from youngsters to golden oldies, Hoopers is for everyone!
The adoption of an older dog is perfect for “us oldies”
When earlier this year I lost my beloved little dog of many years, I felt my world had ended and the void she left was almost unbearable.
At nearly 78, a widow, no family and not as mobile as I would like I tried hard to accept that another little dog was just not a realistic possibility.
The day’s turned into weeks but the awful solitude did not improve. I knew I could still look after a little dog but the question of what would happen to it should I be no more kept rearing its ugly head.
After much soul searching I looked into the possibility of adopting an older dog. I contacted several Associations whose reaction was not over enthusiastic, a little dismissive and thus did not inspire confidence.
I then spoke to Anita at Grande Daze and within minutes my spirits soared. This remarkable lady seemed to understand perfectly my situation and concerns. She quickly pointed out that should I adopt a dog from her Rescue Centre she stipulated that in the event of me not being able to care for the animal it would be returned to her and instructions to this effect must be made.
Anita then mentioned she had a little elderly lady in her care who needed a home after her previous owner became ill. And so a week later I met Mrs Potter, my nickname for her, as she loves just pottering about. She is the most adorable 12 year old Jack Russell cross goodness knows what, an absolute sweetie, who settled incredibly quickly thanks in part to Anita “packing her things” bed, blankets, food treats and even her favourite flower pot drinking bowl which can only emphasize the compassion and understanding she has for the animals.
Where else should Mrs. Potter be?
Mrs P made herself at home almost at once and 10 days later she is my shadow, my friend – my world and I feel so incredibly lucky to be able to share my life with her.
Perhaps after reading this, whatever your circumstances a dog (or cat) is a wonderful addition to ones life and the adoption of an older dog is perfect for “us oldies”(not compulsory!) as well; they ask for so very little but give oh SO much in return.
Much is made of caring for the elderly but dogs get old as well and deserve the very best and lots of love in their golden years.
With many years of experience in the canine world and good judge of humans, Anita ensures the best possible match. Mrs P and I are testament to that.
Its been quite a week, not only really getting to know Mrs.Potter but coping with “the curious” who have all agreed Mrs P, as I have nicknamed her, ( well you did say she liked pottering ,) is an absolute poppet.
She has met the Springer who will be here just for 24 hours next weekend – no problem.
I honestly cannot think of a single thing I don’t love about my new companion. What more can I say? She is eating well, loves her trips round the back garden and, of course, “Pottering” about – fence reinforced…! It’s like Fort Knox !