Last night, it was the SEDTS Christmas Party. I brought both Flash and Jesse along. Unlike in other years, each members had to think of a game. I was first up with my Ball Pool game (dogs needed to retrieve as many numbered tennis balls as possible), which everyone seemed to enjoy. There was also a recall through two rows of sausages, musical chairs (without the chairs), find a treat under plastic cups, "apple and spoon" game and a dressing up game.
Flash and Jesse did really well and I was well proud. Flash won the dressing up game and finding the treat - the latter took just 7 seconds for Flash to find the piece of apple. Jesse came third with about 12 seconds. Jesse won the apple and spoon game!
We had a great time and really enjoyed ourselves. Flash and Jesse were shattered when we got home and went to sleep after their dinner.
14 December 2007
19 November 2007
Obedience Show Culverstone
Yesterday (Sunday) Flash and I went to a limit indoor show in Culverstone.
I was really looking forward to it as I thought that he might do really well (he did last time in that hall).
First of all, it took me ages to get there because of the stupid satnav system that didn't work properly. But I got there in the end.
Flash didn't work particularly well. Even the recall which is normally 100% spot on went wrong. Both times, in Pre-Beginners and Beginners, he came back lovely and I was pleased, but went past me at the last second... No idea why... very strange.
But I was quite pleased that he did a fairly good Retrieve, eventhough he did drop the dumbell. It was the first time he retrieved nicely... and it was actually the first time I worked him in Beginners.
So although I am a little disappointed because I know he could have done so much better, there are many aspects that I was happy about.
I was really looking forward to it as I thought that he might do really well (he did last time in that hall).
First of all, it took me ages to get there because of the stupid satnav system that didn't work properly. But I got there in the end.
Flash didn't work particularly well. Even the recall which is normally 100% spot on went wrong. Both times, in Pre-Beginners and Beginners, he came back lovely and I was pleased, but went past me at the last second... No idea why... very strange.
But I was quite pleased that he did a fairly good Retrieve, eventhough he did drop the dumbell. It was the first time he retrieved nicely... and it was actually the first time I worked him in Beginners.
So although I am a little disappointed because I know he could have done so much better, there are many aspects that I was happy about.
7 November 2007
Excellent Training Session
I took Flash and Jesse training today (normally it would be Dylan's night, but he was out of action due to the chiro treatment yesterday). Flash was amazing. He was so enthusiastic, loved the heelwork, did lovely retrieve and recall... We even did beautiful send-aways and slow recalls... I can't wait to do the competition on Sunday, 18th November, in Culverston!
5 November 2007
Wow - first voluntary cuddle
I sat on the sofa today after I got back from the chiropractor and Flash came and sat next to me and cuddling into me. Now for Dylan and Jesse, this would be perfectly normal, but Flash has never done this before. I am so happy and pleased, it is yet another mile stone he has passed! Love you so much, my baby.
27 September 2007
Another excellent training night
Flash did really well again tonight. His heelwork was pretty good and enthusiastic, his retrieve was good too once I got myself into gear... I also did a send away for the first time there. I have of course practiced this before for the Top Dog party trick, which was a disaster during the filming. But tonight, he did it beautifully... I was really proud of him. Good little chap he was.
21 September 2007
Perfect Retrieve
Went to training class with Flash last night as always on Thursdays... He worked very nicely, though was not quite as attentive on heelwork as normally (was a bit wide at times).
The recall was really nice, no problems.
When we did the retrieve, he totally blew me away... it was absolutely perfect - first time ever! I was speechless! What progress! I am so happy about it!
At the end of the session, Vanda (trainer) said that Flash was coming along nicely... that's good to hear.
The recall was really nice, no problems.
When we did the retrieve, he totally blew me away... it was absolutely perfect - first time ever! I was speechless! What progress! I am so happy about it!
At the end of the session, Vanda (trainer) said that Flash was coming along nicely... that's good to hear.
10 September 2007
1-2-1 Walks and new pictures
Flash has not had any further problems when jumping up, I still have no idea what it was...
I have taken him on a couple of individual walks on Sundays and this seems to have improved his general behaviour and in particular recall on walks with the other walks. I will try to do this every so often to keep things improving.
I have taken all three for individual walks yesterday and they were a total joy to walk, apart from Dylan briefly chasing a young boxer cross. I am quite proud of my crew.
Today, I had all three with me and here are some pictures
I have taken him on a couple of individual walks on Sundays and this seems to have improved his general behaviour and in particular recall on walks with the other walks. I will try to do this every so often to keep things improving.
I have taken all three for individual walks yesterday and they were a total joy to walk, apart from Dylan briefly chasing a young boxer cross. I am quite proud of my crew.
Today, I had all three with me and here are some pictures
7 September 2007
Flash in pain
Last night when I came home from work, Flash jumped up on me as usual to give me a kiss. But this time, he screamed, got back on the floor and screamed for another few seconds. I thought I had tred on his feet or something (though I couldn't remember even touching any part of him). He jumped up again and the same thing happened again. I then went to check him over from top to bottom, stretching and folding the legs, squeazing his tummy... nothing. He didn't react to anything. He didn't limp or show any sign of pain either other than being quiet.
I then brought his front legs up to check it out further and he screamed again when I was about half way up. I just could not work out what it was.
I decided not to take him to training class last night because of that and see how he was today. Last night when I got home after training, he was still a bit quiet and didn't jump up on Cornel either when he came home from work.
This morning however, he is as right as rain. He hasn't jumped up yet, but he has been playing with Jesse and Dylan and seemed absolutely fine. The test comes tonight when I get home from work...
I then brought his front legs up to check it out further and he screamed again when I was about half way up. I just could not work out what it was.
I decided not to take him to training class last night because of that and see how he was today. Last night when I got home after training, he was still a bit quiet and didn't jump up on Cornel either when he came home from work.
This morning however, he is as right as rain. He hasn't jumped up yet, but he has been playing with Jesse and Dylan and seemed absolutely fine. The test comes tonight when I get home from work...
2 September 2007
Fun with Ajax
One of my clients joined us with their saluki Ajax for a walk last night. Dylan and Flash had a great time. The ran loads together, got into the water together (Flash and Ajax that is, not Dylan...) and really enjoyed themselves. Ajax and Flash became really good buddies and did everything together.
Unfortunately Dylan hurt his toe towards the end of the walk and had to be carried out of the park, though luckily it wasn't anything too serious (though we still had to do a trip to the emergency vet).
Today, I took Flash out on his own as Dylan will be resting for a couple of days until the wound is healed. Flash was quiet calm and very obedient (not sure whether he was still tired from yesterday or whether it was because Dylan wasn't there), it was great! He was very good with the couple of dogs we met too. It was a lovely relaxing walk.
Unfortunately Dylan hurt his toe towards the end of the walk and had to be carried out of the park, though luckily it wasn't anything too serious (though we still had to do a trip to the emergency vet).
Today, I took Flash out on his own as Dylan will be resting for a couple of days until the wound is healed. Flash was quiet calm and very obedient (not sure whether he was still tired from yesterday or whether it was because Dylan wasn't there), it was great! He was very good with the couple of dogs we met too. It was a lovely relaxing walk.
28 August 2007
Some new pictures
On Sunday, 26th August, Jesse was 8 months old... so I took some new pictures of the crew!
And some rather funny shots...
And some rather funny shots...
22 August 2007
Top Dog to be on TV in March 2008
It looks like the program will be launched at Crufts next year, so it will be on TV around March. Well, that gives me some grace watching and hearing all about the embarassment that this beautiful hound caused me on Sunday! LOL
21 August 2007
The day has arrived and gone!
Well, finally the day arrived. Flash and I went up to Walsall on Saturday afternoon and stayed in the hotel overnight. The night before, we got our t-shirt and trousers and a bandana for Flash.
On Sunday, we got up at 6.15 am to be ready at 7 am. Then we went to the filming set which was a good half hours drive from the hotel. I took Jackie with Tiptoe with me as they needed a lift.
Then at around 8.30 am, it all started... It was pouring, it was very windy and it was cold... Not the weather we had hoped for at all! And Flash had a lot of fun right from the start...
Half of the rounds went really well (mainly the obedience based ones) and the other half were a disaster... LOL
We started off with agility. I set Flash up nicely, he sat and looked at me beautifully (for quite a while as they needed quite a bit of footage), then we started. He did the first jump... then took off at top speed doing laps of honour. Everyone loved it, but I stood there like a lemon and eventually started calling him, but if he doesn't want to come, he won't. After a couple of minutes or so, he finally decided it was time to come back. So he did. We continued our course, and he did really well... he did however jump off the dog walk when he suddenly realised how high it was. I decided not to go back on with him and just accept the lost points for it. He did all the jumps really well including wall and bone jump, no problems with the soft tunnel, the tyre, the see-saw (!!!)... he went into the bent tunnel, peaked out at the end, then decided it was drier in there than out here, so went back, peaked out the other end and came back again to the right end... LOL. Again, the audience obviously loved it. He also did the weave beautifully!
He really enjoyed the course! If it hadn't been for the laps of honour and the jumping off the dog-walk, he would have done so well in it.
The second round (ball under flowerpots... which we didn't really have much time to practice as it was changed on us a few days before the show) went totally wrong as Flash wasn't interested in finding the ball at all, but wanted to play with a little staffie cross next to him...
The third round was the bullseye, which went very well (to everyone's surprise... LOL) and he landed in the blue area (it was red, white and blue). Most dogs ended up in blue. So he was fine on that (there was only one dog in the whole competition that landed on the bullseye).
The fourth round was the temptation. They changed that game for us too, so now they had to do a down stay for 30 seconds with a huge tray of meat (vegan meat in Flash's case) in front of them (the tray virtually touching their front paws). Then we had to call them past the tray of food. Flash did brilliantly - not even a side glance at the food when he got up and ran past it! It was fab.
The fifth round - by which time it was 8 pm and Flash was cold, tired and wet - was the party trick and was a total disaster. Flash didn't do anything really, as if he had never done it before... How embarassing!
I dreaded the judge's comments... The first judge did say it was not entertaining as he obviously didn't do anything and that it was disappointing. Fair enough I thought... But the other two judges (a vet whose name I can't remember and Carolyne Mendith) were fab. They said that it didn't matter whether he did the party trick or not, they just loved watching him do whatever he did! They recognised the fact that salukis do things their own way and get distracted very easily. They mentioned that when he works, he works beautifully. They were both totally in love with him... and actually told me the same again after filming! Really lovely! They also said they loved watching him run, it was just the most beautiful thing to see. I was of course asked what I made of the judges comments. I replied that I appreciated their feedback and realised that it was disappointing, but that what Carolyne said totally summarised Flash and his character, and that I really appreciated the fact that they recognise the fact that salukis are not like other dogs!
It really was nice to hear from professionals that I am not just making excuses for Flash and his performance, but that they know the breed and fully understand what was going on.
Despite the fact that overall we didn't do well (the party trick was most of the points!), everyone absolutely loved Flash... the audience, Shauna Lowry (presenter), the film crew, the judges...! It was a great day despite the non-stop rain, strong winds and cold!
Well, I did warn Shauna at the audition that Flash was the less reliable and consistent one of the two lurchers... and she said on Sunday that Flash was chosen to take part because he is a rogue!
It was a great day out; of course I am disappointed mainly that the party trick didn't work! But looking at the party tricks of the others, I didn't see many that actually had a home country theme... Thinking about it now, I wish I had stuck to obedience with Flash and padded that out a bit with some fun bits, rather than teach a trick, which I personally didn't really enjoy that much (though Flash had fun learning the new exercises!).
So if ever anything like this comes up again, I will make sure that any performances are in line with what my dogs are already used to, which currently is obedience. As it happens, Flash did very well in the obedience based exercises, so an interesting obedience round (e.g. with heelwork backwards, recall through legs etc.) would have worked and I think would have gone down well! But hindsight is wonderful, as always! What's done is done, and the important thing to me is that the judges understood and didn't give me and Flash a hard time at all!
Ultimately, Flash and I had a great time training, though it was hard and intensive. But we learnt a lot and if you don't take part, you'll never know! That's my moto!
I have no idea when the program will be aired. I thought it was towards the end of the year, someone said however, it will be March next year! I can't wait to see the shots of Flash running (Jack said he had some fab footage of Flash running towards the camera)! That alone will have been worth the whole effort!
Love you so much, Flashy boy!
On Sunday, we got up at 6.15 am to be ready at 7 am. Then we went to the filming set which was a good half hours drive from the hotel. I took Jackie with Tiptoe with me as they needed a lift.
Then at around 8.30 am, it all started... It was pouring, it was very windy and it was cold... Not the weather we had hoped for at all! And Flash had a lot of fun right from the start...
Half of the rounds went really well (mainly the obedience based ones) and the other half were a disaster... LOL
We started off with agility. I set Flash up nicely, he sat and looked at me beautifully (for quite a while as they needed quite a bit of footage), then we started. He did the first jump... then took off at top speed doing laps of honour. Everyone loved it, but I stood there like a lemon and eventually started calling him, but if he doesn't want to come, he won't. After a couple of minutes or so, he finally decided it was time to come back. So he did. We continued our course, and he did really well... he did however jump off the dog walk when he suddenly realised how high it was. I decided not to go back on with him and just accept the lost points for it. He did all the jumps really well including wall and bone jump, no problems with the soft tunnel, the tyre, the see-saw (!!!)... he went into the bent tunnel, peaked out at the end, then decided it was drier in there than out here, so went back, peaked out the other end and came back again to the right end... LOL. Again, the audience obviously loved it. He also did the weave beautifully!
He really enjoyed the course! If it hadn't been for the laps of honour and the jumping off the dog-walk, he would have done so well in it.
The second round (ball under flowerpots... which we didn't really have much time to practice as it was changed on us a few days before the show) went totally wrong as Flash wasn't interested in finding the ball at all, but wanted to play with a little staffie cross next to him...
The third round was the bullseye, which went very well (to everyone's surprise... LOL) and he landed in the blue area (it was red, white and blue). Most dogs ended up in blue. So he was fine on that (there was only one dog in the whole competition that landed on the bullseye).
The fourth round was the temptation. They changed that game for us too, so now they had to do a down stay for 30 seconds with a huge tray of meat (vegan meat in Flash's case) in front of them (the tray virtually touching their front paws). Then we had to call them past the tray of food. Flash did brilliantly - not even a side glance at the food when he got up and ran past it! It was fab.
The fifth round - by which time it was 8 pm and Flash was cold, tired and wet - was the party trick and was a total disaster. Flash didn't do anything really, as if he had never done it before... How embarassing!
I dreaded the judge's comments... The first judge did say it was not entertaining as he obviously didn't do anything and that it was disappointing. Fair enough I thought... But the other two judges (a vet whose name I can't remember and Carolyne Mendith) were fab. They said that it didn't matter whether he did the party trick or not, they just loved watching him do whatever he did! They recognised the fact that salukis do things their own way and get distracted very easily. They mentioned that when he works, he works beautifully. They were both totally in love with him... and actually told me the same again after filming! Really lovely! They also said they loved watching him run, it was just the most beautiful thing to see. I was of course asked what I made of the judges comments. I replied that I appreciated their feedback and realised that it was disappointing, but that what Carolyne said totally summarised Flash and his character, and that I really appreciated the fact that they recognise the fact that salukis are not like other dogs!
It really was nice to hear from professionals that I am not just making excuses for Flash and his performance, but that they know the breed and fully understand what was going on.
Despite the fact that overall we didn't do well (the party trick was most of the points!), everyone absolutely loved Flash... the audience, Shauna Lowry (presenter), the film crew, the judges...! It was a great day despite the non-stop rain, strong winds and cold!
Well, I did warn Shauna at the audition that Flash was the less reliable and consistent one of the two lurchers... and she said on Sunday that Flash was chosen to take part because he is a rogue!
It was a great day out; of course I am disappointed mainly that the party trick didn't work! But looking at the party tricks of the others, I didn't see many that actually had a home country theme... Thinking about it now, I wish I had stuck to obedience with Flash and padded that out a bit with some fun bits, rather than teach a trick, which I personally didn't really enjoy that much (though Flash had fun learning the new exercises!).
So if ever anything like this comes up again, I will make sure that any performances are in line with what my dogs are already used to, which currently is obedience. As it happens, Flash did very well in the obedience based exercises, so an interesting obedience round (e.g. with heelwork backwards, recall through legs etc.) would have worked and I think would have gone down well! But hindsight is wonderful, as always! What's done is done, and the important thing to me is that the judges understood and didn't give me and Flash a hard time at all!
Ultimately, Flash and I had a great time training, though it was hard and intensive. But we learnt a lot and if you don't take part, you'll never know! That's my moto!
I have no idea when the program will be aired. I thought it was towards the end of the year, someone said however, it will be March next year! I can't wait to see the shots of Flash running (Jack said he had some fab footage of Flash running towards the camera)! That alone will have been worth the whole effort!
Love you so much, Flashy boy!
15 August 2007
Monday and Tuesday training
I once again took Flash with me to classes, to practise, particularly the party trick and the temptation exercise.
The exercises he did quite well other than taking a while to find his ball out of the other toys. But he did quite well at the end.
The party trick was a disaster. Flash didn't go to the tree properly, didn't want to bark and didn't want to ring the bell...
Tuesday was fab though. He did full height jumps without problems, even around a corner. The weave was very good and the long jump was fab too. The party trick went very well too.
So in other words, if Flash works like he did on Monday, it will be a disaster, if he works like on Tuesday, he will be fab... Just like a typical lurcher! LOL
The exercises he did quite well other than taking a while to find his ball out of the other toys. But he did quite well at the end.
The party trick was a disaster. Flash didn't go to the tree properly, didn't want to bark and didn't want to ring the bell...
Tuesday was fab though. He did full height jumps without problems, even around a corner. The weave was very good and the long jump was fab too. The party trick went very well too.
So in other words, if Flash works like he did on Monday, it will be a disaster, if he works like on Tuesday, he will be fab... Just like a typical lurcher! LOL
11 August 2007
Last Agility Training session before show
Flash and I took our last trip to see Linda before Top Dog. It went ok... It was yet again very hot and Flash preferred the shade to jumping about. However, he made good progress from the previous session and he did full height jumps without problems.
We'll see how it'll go next Sunday... it might just be rather entertaining... LOL
Oh, and yesterday we got notice that various games had changed. It will take some more pratice of the new games, but I think it will be fine as they are similar and Flash should be able to generalise fairly well.
We'll see how it'll go next Sunday... it might just be rather entertaining... LOL
Oh, and yesterday we got notice that various games had changed. It will take some more pratice of the new games, but I think it will be fine as they are similar and Flash should be able to generalise fairly well.
7 August 2007
Monday and Tuesday night training sessions
I took Flash with me last night for my classes. We had agility sessions so I thought I could add a few minutes with Flash... and so we did. Flash did very well and I also managed to get him to do quite a few full hight jumps! What a fab boy he is!
He was also not too bad when I was teaching and was only noisy really when people and dogs were running around. Other than that, he just settled and watched things.
Tuesday night went rather well too. We practiced the full height jumps, which went very well. We also practiced the long jump.
We started on the bell ringing (which he picked up very quickly) and practiced the other bits and pieces. I am a little worried about the party trick as I still have to give a lot more cues than I would like to, but hey... we have got another almost two weeks to practice...
He was also not too bad when I was teaching and was only noisy really when people and dogs were running around. Other than that, he just settled and watched things.
Tuesday night went rather well too. We practiced the full height jumps, which went very well. We also practiced the long jump.
We started on the bell ringing (which he picked up very quickly) and practiced the other bits and pieces. I am a little worried about the party trick as I still have to give a lot more cues than I would like to, but hey... we have got another almost two weeks to practice...
5 August 2007
Agility Training and fun day at Underdogs
Yesterday, Flash and I went to see Linda again for a training session. Unfortunately it was so hot (28 degrees) that Flash found it hard to concentrate and he didn't have much energy.
Today, Underdogs, which is Linda's flyball and agility training club, had a fun day. There was an agility competition and a sausage game. Linda kindly invited me to go along.
I took Flash (of course) and Jesse with me. They had a great day. Flash won his heat in the sausage game, which I was very pleased about. The training I did so far is obviously working. Unfortunately he got distracted by Jesse slipping his collar in the final, so he only made fourth place... but when set up again he did it beautifully. He got a lovely rosette too.
Flash also did a great agility round... and if it hadn't been for the sheep where he ran off to and for Jesse barking at the end where he got distracted too, he would have been in with a chance for a place. As it was he got a special rosette anyway! I was happy with the round though as he was doing very well tying all the jumps etc together.
It was a great day! The dogs loved running with all the other dogs and saying hello to people, eventhough it was very hot! But there was shade available and plenty of water.
Picture taken by professional animal photographer Malcolm Severs
(http://www.animalimages.org.uk)
Today, Underdogs, which is Linda's flyball and agility training club, had a fun day. There was an agility competition and a sausage game. Linda kindly invited me to go along.
I took Flash (of course) and Jesse with me. They had a great day. Flash won his heat in the sausage game, which I was very pleased about. The training I did so far is obviously working. Unfortunately he got distracted by Jesse slipping his collar in the final, so he only made fourth place... but when set up again he did it beautifully. He got a lovely rosette too.
Flash also did a great agility round... and if it hadn't been for the sheep where he ran off to and for Jesse barking at the end where he got distracted too, he would have been in with a chance for a place. As it was he got a special rosette anyway! I was happy with the round though as he was doing very well tying all the jumps etc together.
It was a great day! The dogs loved running with all the other dogs and saying hello to people, eventhough it was very hot! But there was shade available and plenty of water.
Picture taken by professional animal photographer Malcolm Severs
(http://www.animalimages.org.uk)
1 August 2007
Tuesday evening training
Party Trick
Trainings yesterday went well! Karen and David came along, which was great as I could do my party trick in front of a (small) audience, which made quite a difference to me. I also used the proper pine trick prop for the first time yesterday and it didn't make any difference to Flash as to what the send away marker was. Great. Have to work to approach it from different angles though as well as increase the distance.
I have shortened my party trick now as it was too long and would have been edited to just 1 minute anyway! So now we just do the first part (travellers rescue). All that's left to teach now is ringing the bell, everything else is working... needs more work, but Flash knows what he is doing.
**********************
Bullseye
We have also been working on the bullseye, which was pretty good considering that we can only work on the actual sheet once a week. But Flash is definitely getting the hang of it.
*********************
Temptation
The temptation alley working fine too, will now start practicing with whole sausages.
*********************
Doggie Detective
I got the new rope balls for Flash which he only gets for this exercise, so this should keep it separate from everyday playing balls.
He is very good now at getting it and bringing it back. I have also added a few more toys for him to pick it out from, which worked well too. I have started hiding it now, which he finds a bit more difficult, but we'll get there. He is a smart cookie and will work it out.
**********************
Agility
And last but not least, we worked on the weave a bit. That went very well and Flash is definitely understanding the concept of that. I mananged to bring the weave poles up quite a bit and Flash still did it well - when I got my body language right, which is of course the main thing.
Overall I am happy... though the 19th August is approaching fast and I am pretty worried about what Flash is going to do on the day... not so much whether he will or not (though that's a question too), but whether I can get my act together enough so Flash knows what he needs to do.
Next steps to do now is another agility training session this Saturday, on Sunday I was invited to a small interclub event with Linda's club. That'll be fun to see how things go in a competition environment (it'll be fun after just two session of training... LOL).
And hopefully next Monday, I will bring Flash along to my training class to practice some stuff with the distraction of the other dogs.
Today, I sent off the exact details of the party trick, which helped me sort things out in my head too. I am now happy with it and confident that Flash can do it on the day.
Trainings yesterday went well! Karen and David came along, which was great as I could do my party trick in front of a (small) audience, which made quite a difference to me. I also used the proper pine trick prop for the first time yesterday and it didn't make any difference to Flash as to what the send away marker was. Great. Have to work to approach it from different angles though as well as increase the distance.
I have shortened my party trick now as it was too long and would have been edited to just 1 minute anyway! So now we just do the first part (travellers rescue). All that's left to teach now is ringing the bell, everything else is working... needs more work, but Flash knows what he is doing.
**********************
Bullseye
We have also been working on the bullseye, which was pretty good considering that we can only work on the actual sheet once a week. But Flash is definitely getting the hang of it.
*********************
Temptation
The temptation alley working fine too, will now start practicing with whole sausages.
*********************
Doggie Detective
I got the new rope balls for Flash which he only gets for this exercise, so this should keep it separate from everyday playing balls.
He is very good now at getting it and bringing it back. I have also added a few more toys for him to pick it out from, which worked well too. I have started hiding it now, which he finds a bit more difficult, but we'll get there. He is a smart cookie and will work it out.
**********************
Agility
And last but not least, we worked on the weave a bit. That went very well and Flash is definitely understanding the concept of that. I mananged to bring the weave poles up quite a bit and Flash still did it well - when I got my body language right, which is of course the main thing.
Overall I am happy... though the 19th August is approaching fast and I am pretty worried about what Flash is going to do on the day... not so much whether he will or not (though that's a question too), but whether I can get my act together enough so Flash knows what he needs to do.
Next steps to do now is another agility training session this Saturday, on Sunday I was invited to a small interclub event with Linda's club. That'll be fun to see how things go in a competition environment (it'll be fun after just two session of training... LOL).
And hopefully next Monday, I will bring Flash along to my training class to practice some stuff with the distraction of the other dogs.
Today, I sent off the exact details of the party trick, which helped me sort things out in my head too. I am now happy with it and confident that Flash can do it on the day.
29 July 2007
Agility Training
Flash and I went to see Linda Crammond for the first time today. Poor Flash had to endure my novice driving style and promptly threw up... So sorry Flash! (He was ok on the way back though, where things were a bit calmer... ).
When we got there, Flash was able to have a good run on the field which was fully fenced. Then we got started with the different jumps etc.
Flash did very well... much better than me for sure. Once I started using the clicker on certain things, the progress was even faster. Apart from the jumps, tunnel and weave (which he already knew a little), he also learnt the full size A-frame, the dog walk, the soft tunnel (clicker was great for that), the sea-saw (again, clicker very useful) and the tyre.
Both Flash and I are totally shattered... but we loved it. Lots of fitness training for both of us.
We can't wait to see Linda again next Saturday for another session.
I is knackered...
When we got there, Flash was able to have a good run on the field which was fully fenced. Then we got started with the different jumps etc.
Flash did very well... much better than me for sure. Once I started using the clicker on certain things, the progress was even faster. Apart from the jumps, tunnel and weave (which he already knew a little), he also learnt the full size A-frame, the dog walk, the soft tunnel (clicker was great for that), the sea-saw (again, clicker very useful) and the tyre.
Both Flash and I are totally shattered... but we loved it. Lots of fitness training for both of us.
We can't wait to see Linda again next Saturday for another session.
I is knackered...
25 July 2007
Training is coming along nicely...
Bullseye
Went to the hall again last night. I took the bullseye blanket with me. Flash was quite uneasy about it for a good while. I got him (and Jesse) to run around on it though with toys and treats, which made it a bit better. In the end, I got him to actually target the bullseye (which is black) with his back legs (as the bum needs to be on the bullseye) as he kept walking around it (which was very strange... but hey, I am sure he had his valid reasons... LOL).
The slow recall is fab now, even at long distances. He comes back in a nice walking pace, not even trot! Great. The emergency down is pretty good too, though a little more work is needed.
**********************
Party Trick
We also worked on the crawling again and for the first time he did quite a distance actually doing it properly without me having to lure him! Great!
We also continued to work on the send away (AHEAD) and down, which is pretty good now - even with various kinds of markers (I haven't been able to put the Christmas tree up yet). Started to work on the speak when in the down... that's coming along too.
Now all I need him to learn for the party trick is to ring a bell and to carry the doll! Oh, and I still need a volunteer for the actual trick on the day!
*********************
Temptation
Have worked on this again too to get Flash run past treats and toys. He still avoids them rather than ignore them, but I hope in time this will improve. And on the day, as long as he doesn't grab anything, I don't really mind if he avoids or ignores. The only thing with the avoiding is that it looks like he has been punished for taking the treats/toys, which is not the case... it's just his way of completing the task without taking the stuff...
**********************
Doggie Detective
We have done some work during the week to find treats and then a ball under flower pots. Flash finds this a bit difficult, I think it is because my scent is all over them. So might have to work a bit with Karen on that one next Tuesday!
I also need to do loads more work to get Flash to bring the ball back. I have ordered special rope balls which I want to use, as this will carry my scent better than for example rubber. I hope I get them this week.
**********************
Agility
I have also finally managed to find an agility trainer that is going to help me with Flash. Linda Crammond is near Sevenoaks, so quite a bit away, but it'll be fine. Flash and I will have three 1-2-1 sessions with her before the show. I think that should be fine considering how quickly Flash picked stuff up when I did a bit of agility with him for an hour before the audition. I am really looking forward to the agility training, and I am sure Flash will love it too!
Went to the hall again last night. I took the bullseye blanket with me. Flash was quite uneasy about it for a good while. I got him (and Jesse) to run around on it though with toys and treats, which made it a bit better. In the end, I got him to actually target the bullseye (which is black) with his back legs (as the bum needs to be on the bullseye) as he kept walking around it (which was very strange... but hey, I am sure he had his valid reasons... LOL).
The slow recall is fab now, even at long distances. He comes back in a nice walking pace, not even trot! Great. The emergency down is pretty good too, though a little more work is needed.
**********************
Party Trick
We also worked on the crawling again and for the first time he did quite a distance actually doing it properly without me having to lure him! Great!
We also continued to work on the send away (AHEAD) and down, which is pretty good now - even with various kinds of markers (I haven't been able to put the Christmas tree up yet). Started to work on the speak when in the down... that's coming along too.
Now all I need him to learn for the party trick is to ring a bell and to carry the doll! Oh, and I still need a volunteer for the actual trick on the day!
*********************
Temptation
Have worked on this again too to get Flash run past treats and toys. He still avoids them rather than ignore them, but I hope in time this will improve. And on the day, as long as he doesn't grab anything, I don't really mind if he avoids or ignores. The only thing with the avoiding is that it looks like he has been punished for taking the treats/toys, which is not the case... it's just his way of completing the task without taking the stuff...
**********************
Doggie Detective
We have done some work during the week to find treats and then a ball under flower pots. Flash finds this a bit difficult, I think it is because my scent is all over them. So might have to work a bit with Karen on that one next Tuesday!
I also need to do loads more work to get Flash to bring the ball back. I have ordered special rope balls which I want to use, as this will carry my scent better than for example rubber. I hope I get them this week.
**********************
Agility
I have also finally managed to find an agility trainer that is going to help me with Flash. Linda Crammond is near Sevenoaks, so quite a bit away, but it'll be fine. Flash and I will have three 1-2-1 sessions with her before the show. I think that should be fine considering how quickly Flash picked stuff up when I did a bit of agility with him for an hour before the audition. I am really looking forward to the agility training, and I am sure Flash will love it too!
18 July 2007
More training
Flash is absolutely loving his training for Top Dog. His face lights up when he can learn something new, and he loves to rehearse older stuff.
Last night, we practiced the running to and lying down by the marker and started to introduce the barking when lying down. Then we did the crawling bit. We also started with looking for a ball under a pot. The slow recall with an emergency down is coming along very nicely and the recall across distractions (food and toys) went really well too without a sideward glance (and also without actually avoiding getting near the distractions).
All in all... Flash is making good progress and seeing the joy and enjoyment in his face is priceless and worth all the effort. It's great to have a happy dog.
Last night, we practiced the running to and lying down by the marker and started to introduce the barking when lying down. Then we did the crawling bit. We also started with looking for a ball under a pot. The slow recall with an emergency down is coming along very nicely and the recall across distractions (food and toys) went really well too without a sideward glance (and also without actually avoiding getting near the distractions).
All in all... Flash is making good progress and seeing the joy and enjoyment in his face is priceless and worth all the effort. It's great to have a happy dog.
9 July 2007
Top Dog Training
On Friday, 6th July, I received the information regarding possible games for Top Dog. Wow, there's a lot... However, we will know soon which ones exactely are being actually done in our heat.
Whatever is chosen, we definitely have to do agility (will ask Jacky tomorrow whether I can join their agility class) and our party trick (which I have already started with training). The rest is temptations, scent work and obedience...
It scared the life out of me when I saw the letter and read it all. But now I have put it all down on paper, it looks only half as scary...
Also, Karen, Dawn and I went to see Ian Dunbar on his last ever UK tour on Saturday and Sunday and I managed to pick up a few bits and pieces there for my training for Top Dog.
It'll all be fun!
Whatever is chosen, we definitely have to do agility (will ask Jacky tomorrow whether I can join their agility class) and our party trick (which I have already started with training). The rest is temptations, scent work and obedience...
It scared the life out of me when I saw the letter and read it all. But now I have put it all down on paper, it looks only half as scary...
Also, Karen, Dawn and I went to see Ian Dunbar on his last ever UK tour on Saturday and Sunday and I managed to pick up a few bits and pieces there for my training for Top Dog.
It'll all be fun!
30 June 2007
2nd Gotcha Day
Wow, 2 years today, Flash entered our lives - and what a difference he made!
It has been a bit of a rollercoaster ride with him, but I wouldn't want to miss a day with him!
Flash has major allergies, which luckily we seem to finally have all decoded and under control. He is vegan, therefore does not get any animal protein at all. He is doing extremely well, but has to stay on the strict diet.
He is still a naughty puppy really, training has come along well, but many areas are not reliable yet (e.g. recall around dogs). We will keep working and hopefully within a couple of years, we will have a slightly more sensible hound! LOL Though I love the rogue that Flash is - it's just a bit embarassing at times with me being a dog trainer and all... LOL
Here's to many more years with our beautiful boy!
It has been a bit of a rollercoaster ride with him, but I wouldn't want to miss a day with him!
Flash has major allergies, which luckily we seem to finally have all decoded and under control. He is vegan, therefore does not get any animal protein at all. He is doing extremely well, but has to stay on the strict diet.
He is still a naughty puppy really, training has come along well, but many areas are not reliable yet (e.g. recall around dogs). We will keep working and hopefully within a couple of years, we will have a slightly more sensible hound! LOL Though I love the rogue that Flash is - it's just a bit embarassing at times with me being a dog trainer and all... LOL
Here's to many more years with our beautiful boy!
29 June 2007
Filming
Well, all done for now... filming this morning went really well. We did a few shots indoors in our sitting room, one shot in our garden and various bits and pieces in Coulsdon Valley. Flash was fine, though a bit nervous at first... (he barked at Jack, the camera man). But he loved Coulsdon Valley and cheered up. Jack was really pleased with the location I chose for the outdoor filming...
We were very lucky with the weather, just as we were shooting literally the last few seconds of film, it started raining... I am so glad that we had good weather, I don't know what we would have done if it had been raining all the way through.
The next bit is the actual training now and the first heat... no idea yet where, when and what exactely I am training for though...
We were very lucky with the weather, just as we were shooting literally the last few seconds of film, it started raining... I am so glad that we had good weather, I don't know what we would have done if it had been raining all the way through.
The next bit is the actual training now and the first heat... no idea yet where, when and what exactely I am training for though...
26 June 2007
Top Dog TV show
Flash and I have been accepted on the Top Dog TV Show! Yippee....! Though Cornel is not keen on helping out with things... :-(
Anyway, they want to come and film for half a day on Friday morning. They want to do some filming in our house as well as in Happy Valley in Coulsdon. Should be fun. They also want to have it all a Swiss theme... LOL
So proud of Flash!
Anyway, they want to come and film for half a day on Friday morning. They want to do some filming in our house as well as in Happy Valley in Coulsdon. Should be fun. They also want to have it all a Swiss theme... LOL
So proud of Flash!
25 June 2007
2nd Obedience Show
We went to the SATS Obedience Show in Warlingham yesterday, 24th June (which was by the way also my first car trip all on my own...!!!).
Flash was much less distracted than he was in his first show in Culverstone. I had no problem getting his attention. In the ring, he was a bit distracted here and there, but again, much better than in Culverstone.
The judge didn't think I did things right at all and wanted me to put food in my mouth or near my mouth... which only made Flash jump up - and that's not a good thing with such a tall dog as his paws reach my face without problem...!
I will continue with my training as it is working. In classes, he is now great with his heelwork, it just needs much practicing to make him more consistent!
But overall, he was great yesterday and I was happy!
Flash was much less distracted than he was in his first show in Culverstone. I had no problem getting his attention. In the ring, he was a bit distracted here and there, but again, much better than in Culverstone.
The judge didn't think I did things right at all and wanted me to put food in my mouth or near my mouth... which only made Flash jump up - and that's not a good thing with such a tall dog as his paws reach my face without problem...!
I will continue with my training as it is working. In classes, he is now great with his heelwork, it just needs much practicing to make him more consistent!
But overall, he was great yesterday and I was happy!
23 June 2007
Flash the Actor
The more I think about the audition on Wednesday, the more I think Flash really played to the camera... He was so relaxed and happy - it was spooky! ]
We haven't heard yet whether we got through to take part in the show.
We haven't heard yet whether we got through to take part in the show.
20 June 2007
Audition today!
The audition today went like a dream for us!
I took the train and tube there. Flash was very nervous because he had never been on public transport before. But he calmed down fairly quickly.
At the park, we had to wait about 1 hour, which was in our favour as it gave Flash time to calm down and relax!
And did Dylan and Flash put on a show or didn't they! Dylan was very keen and enthusiastic, did his agility stuff ok (even the bent tunnel which he had never done before) and showed off some of his tricks (walk backwards, weave through legs, retrieve, formal recall, competition heelwork, jump up on me, speak on command, walk between my legs)! What a star he was.
Then Flash's turn: I warned them that he might take off at some point... but he didn't. He was focused, did a fantastic job, was very bouncy and did everything just right! He did the agility round like a star, eventhough we hadn't really done any agility other than a couple of jumps and just last night an hour proper training... He also walked backwards, crawled, down and sit at a distance, down stay with me stepping over him and leg weave.
I think we have a chance to get a place on the show. If so, it will be Flash. They all loved both Dylan and Flash (and loved their fancy lurcher collars and tassels), but Flash is a bit more photogenic and bouncy than Dylan, which will look better on TV. They also like a fact that he is a bit special with being almost full saluki and being a vegan dog too.
Well, I am dead proud of both my boys! They couldn't have done any better if they had tried!
On the way home, Flash was pretty relaxed in tube and trains. Even the fully packed rushhour tube didn't phase him and he lay down and relaxed without problems at all! In fact, there were at least three people on the way home commenting on how well behaved and calm the two were in the massive crowds.
Whether we get on the show or not - it was a great day out and the boys did me and their breed proud in every respect.
I took the train and tube there. Flash was very nervous because he had never been on public transport before. But he calmed down fairly quickly.
At the park, we had to wait about 1 hour, which was in our favour as it gave Flash time to calm down and relax!
And did Dylan and Flash put on a show or didn't they! Dylan was very keen and enthusiastic, did his agility stuff ok (even the bent tunnel which he had never done before) and showed off some of his tricks (walk backwards, weave through legs, retrieve, formal recall, competition heelwork, jump up on me, speak on command, walk between my legs)! What a star he was.
Then Flash's turn: I warned them that he might take off at some point... but he didn't. He was focused, did a fantastic job, was very bouncy and did everything just right! He did the agility round like a star, eventhough we hadn't really done any agility other than a couple of jumps and just last night an hour proper training... He also walked backwards, crawled, down and sit at a distance, down stay with me stepping over him and leg weave.
I think we have a chance to get a place on the show. If so, it will be Flash. They all loved both Dylan and Flash (and loved their fancy lurcher collars and tassels), but Flash is a bit more photogenic and bouncy than Dylan, which will look better on TV. They also like a fact that he is a bit special with being almost full saluki and being a vegan dog too.
Well, I am dead proud of both my boys! They couldn't have done any better if they had tried!
On the way home, Flash was pretty relaxed in tube and trains. Even the fully packed rushhour tube didn't phase him and he lay down and relaxed without problems at all! In fact, there were at least three people on the way home commenting on how well behaved and calm the two were in the massive crowds.
Whether we get on the show or not - it was a great day out and the boys did me and their breed proud in every respect.
13 June 2007
Top Dog TV Show
Just talked to a researcher from the TV show (which happens to be Swiss too) and I am all nervous now. The auditions will be next Wednesday afternoon in Hyde Park... and they will be filming... HELP!
11 June 2007
College and Top Dog TV Show
COLLEGE 3rd to 7th June 2007
Well, we were at college last week. Flash was doing so much better this time round. The bird scarer noises didn't worry him too much, though he was still a little unsure about the real shots going off around the college and the B&B. But he didn't panic like he did last time and quickly cheered up when it was quiet.
There wasn't much to do during the week for him as we had mainly exams. But we got to play stooge client a couple of times for other students, which he quite enjoyed.
TOP DOG TV SHOW
I have sent in an application form for Flash (and Dylan) to go onto the TOP DOG TV SHOW. They have asked me to come and audition with both dogs. The audition is next Wednesday in Hyde Park... So I will have to ask at work whether I can get the time off.
It would be interesting to be on the show and training, filming etc. is in August and September when it is quiet at college anyway, so ideal.
We'll see... the TV production company will also call me some time this week to discuss things further.
Well, we were at college last week. Flash was doing so much better this time round. The bird scarer noises didn't worry him too much, though he was still a little unsure about the real shots going off around the college and the B&B. But he didn't panic like he did last time and quickly cheered up when it was quiet.
There wasn't much to do during the week for him as we had mainly exams. But we got to play stooge client a couple of times for other students, which he quite enjoyed.
TOP DOG TV SHOW
I have sent in an application form for Flash (and Dylan) to go onto the TOP DOG TV SHOW. They have asked me to come and audition with both dogs. The audition is next Wednesday in Hyde Park... So I will have to ask at work whether I can get the time off.
It would be interesting to be on the show and training, filming etc. is in August and September when it is quiet at college anyway, so ideal.
We'll see... the TV production company will also call me some time this week to discuss things further.
29 May 2007
Allergies in the rain
Yep, the rain and Flash's allergies are definitely connected. Flash was fine in the country park during the dry days last week, and he has been back on the tablets since it's started raining again... Still don't know what it is though!
24 May 2007
Great training session
When I walked to training today, I didn't think Flash would do much. He was intimidated by the traffic and a few very loud guys didn't help either. But in the hall, I gave him some ttouch and he soon calmed down and stopped panting.
He then worked beautifully. His heelwork was very attentive, recall was fine and even the retrieve is coming along nicely! Well done, Flashy boy!
He then worked beautifully. His heelwork was very attentive, recall was fine and even the retrieve is coming along nicely! Well done, Flashy boy!
21 May 2007
1st ever obedience show
Flash, Dylan and I went to Culverstone yesterday, together with Karen and Willis. It was my first obedience show in about 18 months, and it was certainly Flash's first ever show! He actually coped better than I thought he would. He was very distracted in the ring, but I did everything on lead, so he couldn't take off for one of his mad runs.
I was quite happy with his heelwork the second time round... Though I have to take the blame for the first round being rubbish as my left hand was for some reason all over the place, so Flash didn't have a chance.
I didn't do any stays with him, as I wouldn't trust him yet (if ever... we shall see!).
I will continue attending shows with him this year, but it will always be training, not working. He is not ready for that yet!
I have decided though to go back to using my training plans as they were very helpful and we made a lot of progress when I was using them.
I am also still struggling in the training class as clicker training is so difficult if the other members don't actually understand how it works exactely... It is difficult to stick to my own way without offending the trainer on the day. Also the fact that there is no permanent instructor makes it difficult too as the progress is difficult to track and the training is less consistent. I think from that point of view, I also need to stick to my training plans again as that'll keep me on track regardless of what happens in the training class.
I was quite happy with his heelwork the second time round... Though I have to take the blame for the first round being rubbish as my left hand was for some reason all over the place, so Flash didn't have a chance.
I didn't do any stays with him, as I wouldn't trust him yet (if ever... we shall see!).
I will continue attending shows with him this year, but it will always be training, not working. He is not ready for that yet!
I have decided though to go back to using my training plans as they were very helpful and we made a lot of progress when I was using them.
I am also still struggling in the training class as clicker training is so difficult if the other members don't actually understand how it works exactely... It is difficult to stick to my own way without offending the trainer on the day. Also the fact that there is no permanent instructor makes it difficult too as the progress is difficult to track and the training is less consistent. I think from that point of view, I also need to stick to my training plans again as that'll keep me on track regardless of what happens in the training class.
14 May 2007
Raining... and park allergy
I am now positive that the allergy that Flash gets from the park is linked with rain/water. Flash has been absolutely find for many weeks whilst the weather has been dry... But he has now started with the allergies again since the rain started in the last week. Almost every day he is now on antihistamines again... argh....
He is not stressed indoors though, we have not had any messing indoors for about three weeks. So I am hoping with controlling his diet, we can also keep the other allergies sort of under control. I think that he is at his worst when he gets the park allergies and also gets hold of animal protein at the same time... and if he is stressed out with other things, then that is it!
But for now, we are doing ok... tablets are working and he remains very manageable and even quite responsive on our walks. He is mote bity with Dylan again though...
He is not stressed indoors though, we have not had any messing indoors for about three weeks. So I am hoping with controlling his diet, we can also keep the other allergies sort of under control. I think that he is at his worst when he gets the park allergies and also gets hold of animal protein at the same time... and if he is stressed out with other things, then that is it!
But for now, we are doing ok... tablets are working and he remains very manageable and even quite responsive on our walks. He is mote bity with Dylan again though...
10 May 2007
A lovely walk today
Got up at 6.30 am as usual and took Dylan and Flash for a walk. It was great. Flash very very slightly nervy (I think more because I told him off the other day than anything else), but nothing much to worry about. He was responsive, recall almost 100%, regularly checking on me and coming back to me (that was still the effect from me hiding a couple of times during last night's walk) and he was happy! And so was I... No allergic reaction after the walk... perhaps because it was dry in the park?
Vera
Vera
9 May 2007
Yep, allergy trouble again...
Flash is definitely strange again. He was less responsive on the walk today - though he improved drastically after I hid in some high plants and they thought they had lost me...
He was also pulling like mad on the way to the park, much more than normal... he is just not very responsive in these situations...
But when we got home, Flash went straight upstairs on his bed rather than hang around downstairs, though later he came downstairs again!
Poor sausage... I wish so much I knew what it was!
He was also pulling like mad on the way to the park, much more than normal... he is just not very responsive in these situations...
But when we got home, Flash went straight upstairs on his bed rather than hang around downstairs, though later he came downstairs again!
Poor sausage... I wish so much I knew what it was!
8 May 2007
Allergy's back
After not having had any allergic reactions for about 8 weeks, I had to give Flash antihistamines twice over the week-end after a country park walk. He had the itchy feet symptoms... Not sure why, though I think it might be the fact that it was raining a little recently...
Flash had been absolutely brilliant over the last week... On Wednesday, 2nd May, we got a phone call that Cornel's brother Wayne died unexpectedly. This meant that the atmoshphere was different in the house and we went out at odd times for longer periods of time (up to six hours). I expected Flash to be really unsettled, but he was absolutely brilliant. No messing indoors, seemed really settled, no problems. His obedience on walks was spot on, no problem at all!
He had started doing his mad runs at the end of the walks again though in the last few days, though he was responsive and came straight back when he was done at the end of the walk. However, yesterday, he didn't and it took a few calls from me to get him back. And maybe it was no coincidence that I also ended up telling him off early in the same walk yesterday... I walked through the first field with Dylan and Flash. I let Dylan off to do his business further into the field, then called Dylan back. Dylan came back at 100 mph, beautiful recall... Only Flash went mad at the end of the lead as Dylan approached and started lunging and snapping at him... It was then that I grabed him by the harness and shouted at him to stop it! This nipping is not just a nuissance as it makes Dylan hesitate to come back to me, but it is also dangerous as this is how Dylan gets injured as Flash doesn't seem to inhibit his bite very well in these frenzied situations... (it happened once before).
It seems that the itchy paws after walks, the mad runs where he becomes unresponsive and his poor self-control when Dylan runs seem to all be part of the same problem...
I will be watching him very closely. He was fine with Dylan after the incident and didn't nip him anymore. I hope he comes out of this phase quickly again!
Flash had been absolutely brilliant over the last week... On Wednesday, 2nd May, we got a phone call that Cornel's brother Wayne died unexpectedly. This meant that the atmoshphere was different in the house and we went out at odd times for longer periods of time (up to six hours). I expected Flash to be really unsettled, but he was absolutely brilliant. No messing indoors, seemed really settled, no problems. His obedience on walks was spot on, no problem at all!
He had started doing his mad runs at the end of the walks again though in the last few days, though he was responsive and came straight back when he was done at the end of the walk. However, yesterday, he didn't and it took a few calls from me to get him back. And maybe it was no coincidence that I also ended up telling him off early in the same walk yesterday... I walked through the first field with Dylan and Flash. I let Dylan off to do his business further into the field, then called Dylan back. Dylan came back at 100 mph, beautiful recall... Only Flash went mad at the end of the lead as Dylan approached and started lunging and snapping at him... It was then that I grabed him by the harness and shouted at him to stop it! This nipping is not just a nuissance as it makes Dylan hesitate to come back to me, but it is also dangerous as this is how Dylan gets injured as Flash doesn't seem to inhibit his bite very well in these frenzied situations... (it happened once before).
It seems that the itchy paws after walks, the mad runs where he becomes unresponsive and his poor self-control when Dylan runs seem to all be part of the same problem...
I will be watching him very closely. He was fine with Dylan after the incident and didn't nip him anymore. I hope he comes out of this phase quickly again!
1 May 2007
Settled and grown up?
Flash seems quite settled at the moment. He is happy, loves his walks and runs and is very obedient and responsive. He seems to have made another step forward at the week-end, I wonder whether the Jade guardian angel I bought him and put on his house collar is helping... he just seems often cheerful now, rather than "just" not unhappy...
Jade has the following characteristics which all apply to Flash very much:
This gem stone is the ultimate symbol of calm and serenity. It helps bring serenity to the mind by releasing negative thoughts. A stone of balance and healing, it alleviates anxiety and fear based emotions.
I was also thinking just today that Flash seems to finally have grown up... I wonder whether "being big brother" to Jesse made a difference? Or whether it's just because he is feeling happier and healthier? Whatever it is, Flash is great at the moment and I hope it stays this way. (We have not had to use any antihystamines for quite a few weeks either with one exception!).
Jade has the following characteristics which all apply to Flash very much:
This gem stone is the ultimate symbol of calm and serenity. It helps bring serenity to the mind by releasing negative thoughts. A stone of balance and healing, it alleviates anxiety and fear based emotions.
I was also thinking just today that Flash seems to finally have grown up... I wonder whether "being big brother" to Jesse made a difference? Or whether it's just because he is feeling happier and healthier? Whatever it is, Flash is great at the moment and I hope it stays this way. (We have not had to use any antihystamines for quite a few weeks either with one exception!).
27 April 2007
Another great training session
We went to training class last night and Flash delivered some fab work. Since I have been taking the pressure off of him completely (e.g. he can walk off if he wants to and though I will call him back, I don't force him anymore to continue), he is so much happier. His heelwork is coming along great and the retrieve too (he now comes back promptly, though the sits aren't very close yet, but that's just a matter of practising it).
Here's a picture I have taken last night
Here's a picture I have taken last night
26 April 2007
Training session
On Tuesday, 24th April, I took Dylan to the hall for training as usual. Only this time, I took Flash with me as Jesse had been to the training classes on Monday evening.
The training went really well, I am so proud of Flash, he really is coming on so well. His heelwork is excellent when he puts his mind to it, and his concentration is getting so much better. He was actually dancing around and running loads during the training hour and really enjoyed himself.
I am looking forward to doing competitions with him, eventhough this year, it'll all be on the long line as I wouldn't trust him yet not to take off across all the other rings... LOL
Flash's allergies have been under control nicely for almost two months now... and I hope it stays this way for a lot longer as well! He is such a great dog when he is "normal", responsive, fun, fairly relaxed and cuddly... and so difficult when he is not well!
The training went really well, I am so proud of Flash, he really is coming on so well. His heelwork is excellent when he puts his mind to it, and his concentration is getting so much better. He was actually dancing around and running loads during the training hour and really enjoyed himself.
I am looking forward to doing competitions with him, eventhough this year, it'll all be on the long line as I wouldn't trust him yet not to take off across all the other rings... LOL
Flash's allergies have been under control nicely for almost two months now... and I hope it stays this way for a lot longer as well! He is such a great dog when he is "normal", responsive, fun, fairly relaxed and cuddly... and so difficult when he is not well!
24 April 2007
Reading by Marie
Marie sent me the reading for Flash on 21st April!
Started by getting the number 3 as being relevant.
There are apparently 3 solutions here that may be needed to help Flash at times. Definitely picking up the stress you mentioned and seeing a 'snapping' incident. There was no intention to bite.... simply a sudden 'stop it I'm stressed'.. also feeling a kind of stomach pain... cramp like severe trapped wind.
Irritation at times from behind... image of Flash turning around towards his back end a lot.
The feeling of grass under my skin... not sure why but I am being drawn to focus on the sensation of very dry prickly grass. The irritating 'skin crawling' type feeling that it can give.
There is a sitation that upsets Flash and makes him bark. Image of him giving lots of quick barks.
I'm told that this is different from barks he does that involve you arriving ... these barks go along with a dance?
Flash is a very apt name for your lad. Ideas, images race through his mind at times... flash, flash. He is bright and vibrant. Extremely sensitive, both physically and emotionally. I'm being told he has a pretty difficult load to bear with his allergies....m and m. milk and meat I'm told.....I hear 'How about that one. Wouldn't think a dog could be allergic to those things would you'
His allergies have much bearing on his behaviour. There is a psychological element going on to do with similar feelings being misread. Him over reacting to stimulus... like being.... I'm given the word 'wired'. There is an over focus on things in short sharp bursts. Routine helps. Walk. Breakfast. Rest. Play. Training. Snack. Rest. Walk. Training Walk. This will help to ground him.
It is typical of him to often have a few weeks or months where he is very settled in himself only for then to follow a difficult time for hi almost as if his problems are cyclical....(not even sure if that is a word.... the feelings around this reading are very odd....I'm very definitely experiencing stressy, communication difficulties when I focus on Flash. Have found myself having zero patience with anyone who has tried to interupt my reading!)
Flash has very special needs that you meet admirably. Visitors may also need to know his needs. Need to know that at times for Flash it is as though his body and mind are in over drive. He cn hear things, be aware of things but then only suddenly realise what you want him to do. He can be listening well and then suddenly just switch onto something else.
I'm being given the image of..... nothing. As in unperfumed things. Bland.
Natural is the by word.
'Need a run. A good run and a bounce. Not short ones. Don't stop me in the middle' Not sure if the 'middle' refers to a particular walk... a field where he is pulled up for chasing.
There is pleasure and relief around playing with a younger smaller male. A slight jealousy somewhere re pack dynamics.... not in a nasty way more in a winsome wise 'what if' way. It doesnt last but is more simply an awareness that passes through.
Very much getting that Flash is your dog. Images of him with you in a training situation, doing as he is told very well... occasional skittish moments. I hear that you understand his ways more than anyone.
Just started to send the reading and was told that at times Flash gets an irrisistable urge to move his mouth. I was reminded very oddly of when doing my student nurse training and learning about reactions to medications callled tardive dyskinesia sp.... Somehow it seemed relevant to mention.
And here are my comments to each section:
Started by getting the number 3 as being relevant.
3 brothers? 3 years old?
There are apparently 3 solutions here that may be needed to help Flash at times. Definitely picking up the stress you mentioned and seeing a 'snapping' incident. There was no intention to bite.... simply a sudden 'stop it I'm stressed'..
That's what we thought, certainly the feeling my friend got that he snapped at.
also feeling a kind of stomach pain... cramp like severe trapped wind.
Irritation at times from behind... image of Flash turning around towards his back end a lot.
Yes, he does that occasionally (frequently enough to notice) ... very suddenly and abruptly...
The feeling of grass under my skin... not sure why but I am being drawn to focus on the sensation of very dry prickly grass. The irritating 'skin crawling' type feeling that it can give.
Ties in completely... When he comes home with an allergy from the park, he rubs his feet on the carpet and darts around like mad... like the skin is very itchy and uncomfortable...
There is a sitation that upsets Flash and makes him bark. Image of him giving lots of quick barks.
Not sure... the only thing he seems to bark at are foxes/cats next door... which we seem to have at the moment as all the dogs seem to dart out there like mad all the time...
I'm told that this is different from barks he does that involve you arriving ... these barks go along with a dance?
Flash does a beautiful howl to greet me... and he jumps up on me as high as he can and then yes, sort of dances around...
Flash is a very apt name for your lad. Ideas, images race through his mind at times... flash, flash.
Exactely the feeling I got from him... thinking way too much for his own good. Probably also what makes him unsettled at times.
He is bright and vibrant.
Very bright indeed... One of the most intelligent dogs I know.
Extremely sensitive, both physically and emotionally.
I am "glad" that this is the case... and not just me being paranoid and making excuses for him! I knew this, but it is difficult to explain it to other people as they can just see a lovely lunatic that doesn't seem to have a care in the world.
I'm being told he has a pretty difficult load to bear with his allergies....m and m. milk and meat I'm told.....I hear 'How about that one. Wouldn't think a dog could be allergic to those things would you'
Yes, we have worked out that he is allergic to all animal proteins, meat, milk, eggs... and yes, we often say "you wouldn't think a dog could be allergic to these things, would you..." Your exact words...
His allergies have much bearing on his behaviour.
They do indeed... very much so.
There is a psychological element going on to do with similar feelings being misread.
Most people would think Flash is just being naughty... whereas I eventually realised that he wasn't, but that a lot of his "naughty" behaviour is actually the symptom of an allergic reaction.
Him over reacting to stimulus... like being.... I'm given the word 'wired'. There is an over focus on things in short sharp bursts. Routine helps. Walk. Breakfast. Rest. Play. Training. Snack. Rest. Walk. Training Walk. This will help to ground him.
Routine is definitely very important to Flash... and unfortunately the one thing that I cannot always give him 100%... something I know he struggles with at times.
It is typical of him to often have a few weeks or months where he is very settled in himself only for then to follow a difficult time for hi almost as if his problems are cyclical....(not even sure if that is a word.... the feelings around this reading are very odd....I'm very definitely experiencing stressy, communication difficulties when I focus on Flash. Have found myself having zero patience with anyone who has tried to interupt my reading!)
Yes, Flash does have good weeks and months (he was great for the last four weeks or so after being really bad for about 3 months...) and yes, I think I know exactely how you feel... I get the same... very short tempered... Not good when Flash is already not well (mentally), but very difficult to control for some reason! - As you have experienced.
Flash has very special needs that you meet admirably.
I am glad that he feels that... I sometimes wonder as it is often difficult to cope with him. I sometimes do get short tempered with him for things that he probably cannot help at all... I am trying very hard not to though.
Visitors may also need to know his needs.
My two friends that dog sit from time to time do, they are very aware of what he is like and won't push him into anything.
Need to know that at times for Flash it is as though his body and mind are in over drive.
Yes, my feelings exactely about him...
He cn hear things, be aware of things but then only suddenly realise what you want him to do. He can be listening well and then suddenly just switch onto something else.
That's what makes training so very difficult with him... he can be absolutely brilliant, and then suddenly lose focus... very frustrating for me, and difficult to explain to my trainers. I think regular training and knowing things better and better will give him the routine he craves and will make his obedience/training more consistent.
I'm being given the image of..... nothing. As in unperfumed things. Bland.
Natural is the by word.
I wonder whether this refers to his vegan diet? Not the most exciting diet for a dog I would imagine...
'Need a run. A good run and a bounce. Not short ones.
And doesn't he just... he would be extremly unhappy without daily runs off lead preferably with Dylan. I have never known a dog to enjoy simply running more than he does.
Don't stop me in the middle' Not sure if the 'middle' refers to a particular walk... a field where he is pulled up for chasing.
I think this refers to his sprints... when we go for walks, he often runs like mad in huge circles... and it is then usually impossible to call him back. So it's best to just let him run and run and run... till he is all "run out" and comes back on his own accord.
There is pleasure and relief around playing with a younger smaller male.
We have a new puppy called Jesse, 4 months old now, and Flash absolutely adores him and plays with him for hours.
He is also very relieved as he was very worried that Jesse would be leaving again like the two foster puppies we had before him. He really struggled for about three weeks and found it difficult to bond, until he realised that Jesse was staying and was his new permanent brother.
A slight jealousy somewhere re pack dynamics.... not in a nasty way more in a winsome wise 'what if' way. It doesnt last but is more simply an awareness that passes through.
Flash is at the bottom of the pack... and as you say, not unhappy there at all. He could never cope with being higher ranking due to his character, but I guess he thinks about it at times. I am pretty sure that he will also be lower ranking than Jesse in time.
Very much getting that Flash is your dog. Images of him with you in a training situation, doing as he is told very well... occasional skittish moments.
He is great at training, but yes, he can be skittish ... and inconsistent as explained above. He is a fab dog though and people can't believe how well he does in obedience considering that he is mostly saluki. We recently won our group in a match with another club.
I hear that you understand his ways more than anyone.
I really do my best to understand him and do my best by him!
Just started to send the reading and was told that at times Flash gets an irrisistable urge to move his mouth. I was reminded very oddly of when doing my student nurse training and learning about reactions to medications callled tardive dyskinesia sp.... Somehow it seemed relevant to mention.
Something very interesting you mention here as you are spot on... Here's why... Flash used to find it really hard not to chew on a retrieve article/dumbell. I worked very hard with him to hold it steady when presenting it, but it was almost impossible. After my friend did some ttouch with him (about three sessions), the chewing of the dumbell stopped completely without me putting any further work in. Several months later, it started again out of the blue (in fact during the last difficult period he had), I am doing quite a bit of ttouch with him (he asks for it) and it is definitely much better again!
Started by getting the number 3 as being relevant.
There are apparently 3 solutions here that may be needed to help Flash at times. Definitely picking up the stress you mentioned and seeing a 'snapping' incident. There was no intention to bite.... simply a sudden 'stop it I'm stressed'.. also feeling a kind of stomach pain... cramp like severe trapped wind.
Irritation at times from behind... image of Flash turning around towards his back end a lot.
The feeling of grass under my skin... not sure why but I am being drawn to focus on the sensation of very dry prickly grass. The irritating 'skin crawling' type feeling that it can give.
There is a sitation that upsets Flash and makes him bark. Image of him giving lots of quick barks.
I'm told that this is different from barks he does that involve you arriving ... these barks go along with a dance?
Flash is a very apt name for your lad. Ideas, images race through his mind at times... flash, flash. He is bright and vibrant. Extremely sensitive, both physically and emotionally. I'm being told he has a pretty difficult load to bear with his allergies....m and m. milk and meat I'm told.....I hear 'How about that one. Wouldn't think a dog could be allergic to those things would you'
His allergies have much bearing on his behaviour. There is a psychological element going on to do with similar feelings being misread. Him over reacting to stimulus... like being.... I'm given the word 'wired'. There is an over focus on things in short sharp bursts. Routine helps. Walk. Breakfast. Rest. Play. Training. Snack. Rest. Walk. Training Walk. This will help to ground him.
It is typical of him to often have a few weeks or months where he is very settled in himself only for then to follow a difficult time for hi almost as if his problems are cyclical....(not even sure if that is a word.... the feelings around this reading are very odd....I'm very definitely experiencing stressy, communication difficulties when I focus on Flash. Have found myself having zero patience with anyone who has tried to interupt my reading!)
Flash has very special needs that you meet admirably. Visitors may also need to know his needs. Need to know that at times for Flash it is as though his body and mind are in over drive. He cn hear things, be aware of things but then only suddenly realise what you want him to do. He can be listening well and then suddenly just switch onto something else.
I'm being given the image of..... nothing. As in unperfumed things. Bland.
Natural is the by word.
'Need a run. A good run and a bounce. Not short ones. Don't stop me in the middle' Not sure if the 'middle' refers to a particular walk... a field where he is pulled up for chasing.
There is pleasure and relief around playing with a younger smaller male. A slight jealousy somewhere re pack dynamics.... not in a nasty way more in a winsome wise 'what if' way. It doesnt last but is more simply an awareness that passes through.
Very much getting that Flash is your dog. Images of him with you in a training situation, doing as he is told very well... occasional skittish moments. I hear that you understand his ways more than anyone.
Just started to send the reading and was told that at times Flash gets an irrisistable urge to move his mouth. I was reminded very oddly of when doing my student nurse training and learning about reactions to medications callled tardive dyskinesia sp.... Somehow it seemed relevant to mention.
And here are my comments to each section:
Started by getting the number 3 as being relevant.
3 brothers? 3 years old?
There are apparently 3 solutions here that may be needed to help Flash at times. Definitely picking up the stress you mentioned and seeing a 'snapping' incident. There was no intention to bite.... simply a sudden 'stop it I'm stressed'..
That's what we thought, certainly the feeling my friend got that he snapped at.
also feeling a kind of stomach pain... cramp like severe trapped wind.
Irritation at times from behind... image of Flash turning around towards his back end a lot.
Yes, he does that occasionally (frequently enough to notice) ... very suddenly and abruptly...
The feeling of grass under my skin... not sure why but I am being drawn to focus on the sensation of very dry prickly grass. The irritating 'skin crawling' type feeling that it can give.
Ties in completely... When he comes home with an allergy from the park, he rubs his feet on the carpet and darts around like mad... like the skin is very itchy and uncomfortable...
There is a sitation that upsets Flash and makes him bark. Image of him giving lots of quick barks.
Not sure... the only thing he seems to bark at are foxes/cats next door... which we seem to have at the moment as all the dogs seem to dart out there like mad all the time...
I'm told that this is different from barks he does that involve you arriving ... these barks go along with a dance?
Flash does a beautiful howl to greet me... and he jumps up on me as high as he can and then yes, sort of dances around...
Flash is a very apt name for your lad. Ideas, images race through his mind at times... flash, flash.
Exactely the feeling I got from him... thinking way too much for his own good. Probably also what makes him unsettled at times.
He is bright and vibrant.
Very bright indeed... One of the most intelligent dogs I know.
Extremely sensitive, both physically and emotionally.
I am "glad" that this is the case... and not just me being paranoid and making excuses for him! I knew this, but it is difficult to explain it to other people as they can just see a lovely lunatic that doesn't seem to have a care in the world.
I'm being told he has a pretty difficult load to bear with his allergies....m and m. milk and meat I'm told.....I hear 'How about that one. Wouldn't think a dog could be allergic to those things would you'
Yes, we have worked out that he is allergic to all animal proteins, meat, milk, eggs... and yes, we often say "you wouldn't think a dog could be allergic to these things, would you..." Your exact words...
His allergies have much bearing on his behaviour.
They do indeed... very much so.
There is a psychological element going on to do with similar feelings being misread.
Most people would think Flash is just being naughty... whereas I eventually realised that he wasn't, but that a lot of his "naughty" behaviour is actually the symptom of an allergic reaction.
Him over reacting to stimulus... like being.... I'm given the word 'wired'. There is an over focus on things in short sharp bursts. Routine helps. Walk. Breakfast. Rest. Play. Training. Snack. Rest. Walk. Training Walk. This will help to ground him.
Routine is definitely very important to Flash... and unfortunately the one thing that I cannot always give him 100%... something I know he struggles with at times.
It is typical of him to often have a few weeks or months where he is very settled in himself only for then to follow a difficult time for hi almost as if his problems are cyclical....(not even sure if that is a word.... the feelings around this reading are very odd....I'm very definitely experiencing stressy, communication difficulties when I focus on Flash. Have found myself having zero patience with anyone who has tried to interupt my reading!)
Yes, Flash does have good weeks and months (he was great for the last four weeks or so after being really bad for about 3 months...) and yes, I think I know exactely how you feel... I get the same... very short tempered... Not good when Flash is already not well (mentally), but very difficult to control for some reason! - As you have experienced.
Flash has very special needs that you meet admirably.
I am glad that he feels that... I sometimes wonder as it is often difficult to cope with him. I sometimes do get short tempered with him for things that he probably cannot help at all... I am trying very hard not to though.
Visitors may also need to know his needs.
My two friends that dog sit from time to time do, they are very aware of what he is like and won't push him into anything.
Need to know that at times for Flash it is as though his body and mind are in over drive.
Yes, my feelings exactely about him...
He cn hear things, be aware of things but then only suddenly realise what you want him to do. He can be listening well and then suddenly just switch onto something else.
That's what makes training so very difficult with him... he can be absolutely brilliant, and then suddenly lose focus... very frustrating for me, and difficult to explain to my trainers. I think regular training and knowing things better and better will give him the routine he craves and will make his obedience/training more consistent.
I'm being given the image of..... nothing. As in unperfumed things. Bland.
Natural is the by word.
I wonder whether this refers to his vegan diet? Not the most exciting diet for a dog I would imagine...
'Need a run. A good run and a bounce. Not short ones.
And doesn't he just... he would be extremly unhappy without daily runs off lead preferably with Dylan. I have never known a dog to enjoy simply running more than he does.
Don't stop me in the middle' Not sure if the 'middle' refers to a particular walk... a field where he is pulled up for chasing.
I think this refers to his sprints... when we go for walks, he often runs like mad in huge circles... and it is then usually impossible to call him back. So it's best to just let him run and run and run... till he is all "run out" and comes back on his own accord.
There is pleasure and relief around playing with a younger smaller male.
We have a new puppy called Jesse, 4 months old now, and Flash absolutely adores him and plays with him for hours.
He is also very relieved as he was very worried that Jesse would be leaving again like the two foster puppies we had before him. He really struggled for about three weeks and found it difficult to bond, until he realised that Jesse was staying and was his new permanent brother.
A slight jealousy somewhere re pack dynamics.... not in a nasty way more in a winsome wise 'what if' way. It doesnt last but is more simply an awareness that passes through.
Flash is at the bottom of the pack... and as you say, not unhappy there at all. He could never cope with being higher ranking due to his character, but I guess he thinks about it at times. I am pretty sure that he will also be lower ranking than Jesse in time.
Very much getting that Flash is your dog. Images of him with you in a training situation, doing as he is told very well... occasional skittish moments.
He is great at training, but yes, he can be skittish ... and inconsistent as explained above. He is a fab dog though and people can't believe how well he does in obedience considering that he is mostly saluki. We recently won our group in a match with another club.
I hear that you understand his ways more than anyone.
I really do my best to understand him and do my best by him!
Just started to send the reading and was told that at times Flash gets an irrisistable urge to move his mouth. I was reminded very oddly of when doing my student nurse training and learning about reactions to medications callled tardive dyskinesia sp.... Somehow it seemed relevant to mention.
Something very interesting you mention here as you are spot on... Here's why... Flash used to find it really hard not to chew on a retrieve article/dumbell. I worked very hard with him to hold it steady when presenting it, but it was almost impossible. After my friend did some ttouch with him (about three sessions), the chewing of the dumbell stopped completely without me putting any further work in. Several months later, it started again out of the blue (in fact during the last difficult period he had), I am doing quite a bit of ttouch with him (he asks for it) and it is definitely much better again!
Flash 2005 - 23rd April 2007!
30th June 2005
Flash arrived on 30th June when we picked him up from North London. It was a long journey, it took forever to get through London (3 hours), what a nightmare... but well worth it for our boy.
Here's the thread I started after Flash had arrived:
http://www.lurcher.org/llink/forum/viewtopic.php?p=20759&highlight=#20759
I was going to call him Dennis, but Cornel nor Kaye (from Lurcher Link) liked it at all, so Cornel came up with Flash... and that became his - very suitable - name!
29th June 2005
The home check was done by Nettie - and we passed. I was well pleased!
The 29th was the day before Flash came home. It was arranged that Flash would be transported from Yorkshire to North London as our car couldn't do motorways... We would pick him up from North London and bring him home. Obviously there was never a chance to introduce Flash to our lot, but it wouldn't have made any difference anyway as Troy would haven't liked him anyway as a default. So, we just took a chance and had a back up plan in place. If it really didn't work out, Flash would go into foster with Nettie that lives in West London.
Here are the last pictures taken on 29th in the foster home with Ann-Marie and her husband
May/June 2005
On 13th June, I stated my interest in Flash (then called Barney) in his second thread after his mate was rehomed and Flash was on his own. That was before I had even discussed it with Cornel yet... LOL
http://www.lurcher.org/llink/forum/viewtopic.php?t=1518&highlight=barney
Here's some pictures when Flash was in his wonderful foster home:
April/May 2005
The first ever picture I saw of Flash was this.
He was called Barney and was cared for by the rescue organisation Lurcher Link.
And here was another picture of him in April/May 2005
This was the very first thread about Flash on the Lurcher Link forum
http://www.lurcher.org/llink/forum/viewtopic.php?t=1156&highlight=barney
Another couple of pictures taken straight after Flash arrived at the rescue
Flash arrived on 30th June when we picked him up from North London. It was a long journey, it took forever to get through London (3 hours), what a nightmare... but well worth it for our boy.
Here's the thread I started after Flash had arrived:
http://www.lurcher.org/llink/forum/viewtopic.php?p=20759&highlight=#20759
I was going to call him Dennis, but Cornel nor Kaye (from Lurcher Link) liked it at all, so Cornel came up with Flash... and that became his - very suitable - name!
29th June 2005
The home check was done by Nettie - and we passed. I was well pleased!
The 29th was the day before Flash came home. It was arranged that Flash would be transported from Yorkshire to North London as our car couldn't do motorways... We would pick him up from North London and bring him home. Obviously there was never a chance to introduce Flash to our lot, but it wouldn't have made any difference anyway as Troy would haven't liked him anyway as a default. So, we just took a chance and had a back up plan in place. If it really didn't work out, Flash would go into foster with Nettie that lives in West London.
Here are the last pictures taken on 29th in the foster home with Ann-Marie and her husband
May/June 2005
On 13th June, I stated my interest in Flash (then called Barney) in his second thread after his mate was rehomed and Flash was on his own. That was before I had even discussed it with Cornel yet... LOL
http://www.lurcher.org/llink/forum/viewtopic.php?t=1518&highlight=barney
Here's some pictures when Flash was in his wonderful foster home:
April/May 2005
The first ever picture I saw of Flash was this.
He was called Barney and was cared for by the rescue organisation Lurcher Link.
And here was another picture of him in April/May 2005
This was the very first thread about Flash on the Lurcher Link forum
http://www.lurcher.org/llink/forum/viewtopic.php?t=1156&highlight=barney
Another couple of pictures taken straight after Flash arrived at the rescue
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