Testimonials
Some of the many letters and pictures we have received
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Gill Gibbs wrote:
I had my first dog when I was 4 years old, and since then I have had at least one, sometimes more, (21 at highest end). I have also bred dogs for about 30 years, so, when my last old faithful friend died; I said ‘No more, it is too upsetting to lose good friends’. The resolution lasted just 12 months! The lack of paw noise and wet noses got to me, and I went searching, for over 6 months I searched, nothing seemed quite right, so, I went to Australia on holiday for 2 months.
On my return, the longing for a dog had become of immense importance, almost an obsession, so for 3 days the search went on. Rescue dogs were the first choice, but nothing suitable was around, and in desperation I “Googled”, Puppies for sale, up popped an advert for a GSP x Lab, as I have always had gundogs and the phone number was local, a quick call ensued. The person at the other end said she only had a bitch left, just what I wanted and off we went to view this little bitch.
As a result, my new companion and friend had arrived, toilet training, dead easy, walking on a lead, no problems, and then the trouble began. As teething started, biting, jumping up and pulling like a train became the norm, she was now heading for 20 kgs and I nearly became a “Mexican diver” off the Langland to Caswell cliffs on more than one occasion, and I was fast beginning to lose all pleasure in my new found friend who frequently reduced me to tears, and the feeling that she would have to go, heaven forbid. The word bitch took on a whole different meaning, and I realized that not only did Emmy need training, but so did I!!
Back to the internet and a search for A1K9, obedience trainers mentioned to me at the kennels I put my dog in for holidays. The web site was fantastic, and I liked the sound of the people,(Charles and Gaynor) , I talked to.
The biting I had solved myself, it was only her own humans she did it to, and within about 30 seconds, or that was what it seemed, Gaynor had Emmy doing whatever she asked of her. The most difficult bit came next, teaching me!!!
The word bitch has resumed its proper meaning and even when at her most naughty, it still happens, she is much loved, but as Gaynor said, she needs to respect me too. The respect is, of course, a 2 way street, and as I relax more knowing she will respond to a check, she doesn’t need the check so often.
I have been attending obedience classes for 12 weeks now and I have a dog I can enjoy again, and not only that, we passed our bronze certificate in basic dog ownership and practical training.
I am still going to the classes at A1K9 and hope, in time, to acquire my silver and who knows, perhaps even my gold certificate with my new best friend. The training is great, Emmy has a lot of new friends, human and canine, and so do I. Thank you everyone for your tolerance, help and also companionship.
All the best
Gill