Spring is sprung!

Springtime brings new growth, new starts and new opportunities. We have embraced this by opening a new office in Hampton . And to run the office we welcome Becky Skelhon to the team. In the past we've been victims of our own success, always out training so never available on the phone. Becky will be in the office Monday – Friday from 09.30 – 1.30 to answer your questions and queries about courses, bookings, fees, products and appointments. This should bring an end to the frustrating rounds of telephone tag!

Paul's Dynamic Dog Course has proved so successful that we've already added two weeks to the course, making it six weeks long rather than four. This exciting course is really helping those busy dogs find positive ways channel their energy. From scenting to retrieving to finding their off switches, this course is a must for all Dynamic Dogs. On the other side of the coin, our more cerebral dogs are excelling in the Clever Canine Class. Inspired by Rally-Obedience, this class works on a series of set exercises that join together to form a course. What a joy it is to see dogs that were once uncoordinated pups in Puppy Class, doing precise heelwork, turns and positions like seasoned professionals.  To find the right course for you and your dog, go to their dedicated pages for full information and booking details.

We had a lively start to t he 2008 Canine Carer Certificate with delegates working hands on with a variety of dogs in the Safe & Defensive Handling Workshop. This four part certificate is designed to give shelter workers, volunteers and everyone with an interest in animal sheltering a solid, practical foundation in the fundamental skills required for this demanding environment. Held in a beautiful Cambridgeshire village, these professional but informal workshops encourage discussion and thought about some of the most challenging aspects of animal sheltering. Next up is the Assessments workshop designed to examine how to successfully match dogs with owners. This workshop can help reduce returns and help everyone interpret the signals dogs are constantly giving us. Book now to secure your place. Stella Bagshaw's Rally-O Workshop booked up fast, but there are still a few spectator places available so don't delay, book today!

The Talking Dogs' Facebook is making it easy and fun to swap information, pictures and product reviews. Over 100 friends have signed up and more are joining daily. And don't worry about putting personal info onto Facebook, you don't have to. To join, click on my Facebook badge at the bottom of this page. With your help I hope to provide information on great dog walks, new products, training tips and behavioural advice. The more people that join the more information we can swap. 

And don't forget to visit our shop. For the dog lover in your family, why not visit Dogwise, a superb source of doggy books and dvd's. With exchange rates being so good at the moment, this is a great time to order from this top US company. And don't forget the Talking Dogs Gift Certificate. This versatile gift can be used in our shop, for booking on to a training course or workshop, or for an in-home training session or behaviour consultation. If you have friends or family who are getting a new puppy or would like help with their dog, a gift certificate is a thoughtful, useful and unusual gift - perfect! Plus we have a range of booklets and equipment for everyone, from the pet owner to the professional. Look out for the Easy Slip Lead, the Helping Hand and booklets on how to Beat the Bark and help your dog with his Firework Fear.

Finally, I am always on the lookout for aspiring dog trainers. If you are interested in joining Talking Dogs, please contact me.

Pam
Director