Having just spent a couple of hours cutting the grass in the paddock I'm now starting to warm up again - who said summer was on it's way

The ADCH conference was very well attended and as usual interesting and at times quite thought provoking. It has certainly given us plenty of ideas to think about.

One of the discussions concerned assessements of dogs and due to certain incidents one quite large rescue based in the south of the country has taken a decision not to accept certain breeds from their own homes. It is unfortunate that due to the increasing media attention to incidents involving dogs, particularly of certain breeds, that this has happened but I can fully understand why.

We are all aware of the natural collie trait of nipping and yet even that can be difficult to explain to a potential new owner who is understandably concerned of the consequences should the dog nip someone while out walking. Trying to home a collie, or any dog, that has bitten is even more difficult and at times hard decisions have to be made about admissions and even whether it's safe to rehome that dog.

Rescues are under increasing pressure from so many angles and this is another we have to deal with.

Bye for now

Ben

I think the general public need educating about the full responsibilities of owning a dog. So many think the Dangerous Dogs Act just relates to pitbulls, rottweilers, staffies, dobermans etc, when in fact it affects all types of dogs. Every dog owner should make themselves aware of the full implications of the Act, but sadly most don't. Keep up the good work.