Dog Listener's Newsletter

We now have a new tool to help us spread the word about Amichien Bonding - the kind natural way to communicate with your dogs. Our own Newsletter. The first edition has just been published and you will be able to access it by clicking on the link below.

It carries a number of articles and I'm involved in three of them. Yellowstone Experience (I'm far right in the picture wearing a fetching little hat). Featured Dog Listeners about our involvement with rescue dogs from Afghanistan and their appearance at Crufts and finally, under the heading Health News is an article I wrote about Electric Shock Collars.

I don't yet know how often this Newsletter will be published but hope to keep getting involved in its content.

Read and enjoy. As always, any feedback welcome. http://www.listeningtoday.co.uk/

Forthcoming Talks

During the second half of 2008 Jan Fennell is giving the following talks


Sunday 24th August 2008 : 11am For prompt start until 16:30 - Taunton, Somerset A Day with Jan Fennell The Dog Listener

VENUE: WellspringsLeisure Centre,Cheddon Rd, Taunton, Somerset TA2 7QP
24th August 2008
Usual format for Talk and Q&A:
Tickets £35.00 to include a Buffet Lunch
All Proceeds (including Jan's Fee) to go to
The Blue Cross - The St Margarets Hospice (Taunton)
The Cystic Fibrosis Trust and The Bornfree Foundation
Part 1: appx 90 minutes talking then answers a few questions
Break for Lunch (Jan is signing books and writing questions for part 2 ).
Part 2: Jan comprehensively explains the 4 core elements of "Amichien Bonding" then continues answering questions.
For more information and tickets please telephone or email the contacts below Pam Shaw or Carly Warren.
Books and DVDs will be on sale throughout (all major cards accepted)
Telephone: Pam Shaw 01823 321540 or Carly Warren 01460 240773
Email: pamshaw11@tiscali.co.uk or carly@tbdp.co.uk

Sunday 5th October 2008 : 13:30 till 18:00 - Runnymead Hall Kiln Road Thundersley SS7 1TFAn Afternoon with Jan Fennell The Dog Listener in ESSEX
LECTURE - Q&A - Book/DVD sales and signing
Part 1: appx 90 minutes talking then answers a few questions - break for tea/coffee/snack usually for 30 - 45 mins (Jan is signing books and writing questions for part 2 ).
Part 2: Jan comprehensively explains the 4 core elements of "Amichien Bonding" then continues answering questions.
Books and DVDs will be on sale throughout (all major cards accepted)
VENUE The Runnymead Hall Kiln Road Thundersley SS7 1TF
Admission: advanced booking £18.00 or £20.00 at the door
For bookings please phone:
Julie Abbott on 07771 817097
Rachael Messiter 07747 022732
http://www.essexdoglisteners.com/
Telephone: 07771817097 or 07747022732 WWW: http://www.essexdoglisteners.com/

Saturday 15th November 2008 : 13.30 Onwards - The Wynward Rooms, Wynward, Cleveland. TS22 5BTAn Afternoon with Jan Fennell - Saturday 15th November 2008
An Afternoon with the Jan Fennell "The Dog Listener"
Jan Fennell "The Dog Listener" is coming to the North East!
The Wynward Rooms, Wynward, Cleveland TS22 5BT
LECTURE - Q&A - Book/DVD sales and signing
Part 1: appx 90 minutes talking then answers a few questions - break for tea/coffee/snack usually for 30 - 45 mins (Jan is signing books and writing questions for part 2 ).
Part 2: Jan comprehensively explains the 4 core elements of "Amichien Bonding" then continues answering questions.
Books and DVDs will be on sale throughout (all major cards accepted)
Admission by ticket only to include refreshments£20.00
For further information, please contact:
Karen 01740 620471 karen@pawscrossed.co.uk
Georgie 01609 883225 georgiebowe@aol.com
Margaret 01830 540213 k9_concerns@btinternet.com

There are also open days where Jan is speaking at Notcutts Garden Centres at Cambridge, Norwich, Oxford (27th July), and Peterborough. Except for the Oxford talk I don't have the dates to hand but if any of these Notcutts are near you then contact them for full details

Jan is a truly motivational speaker. If you haven't heard her before then I urge you to attend and defy you not to be convinced. I will be attending both the Oxford and Taunton events to assist. If you attend either of these events please come and say hello. I will be giving two talks in my own right the first to a private club in Haslemere on 2nd July and a second at 1030 Sunday 20th July for Southern Collie Club at Lloyd Hall, Brickfield Road, Outwood, Surrey.

Be there or be a rectangular thing.

New Consumer Protection Laws

Today sees a massive shake up in Consumer Protection Laws giving major new powers to, amongst others, Trading Standards Officers. To tackle 'Rogue Traders' It is said to be the biggest change for forty years.

Things were much different then. In 1968 the Vietnam War was still raging, London was 'Swinging London', the mini skirt was at its height, in more ways than one and I was a young single Policeman with hair and a Fender Stratocaster, living in Soho just around the corner from Carnaby Street. Life was much simpler then and although there have always been con artists and cowboys queing up to take peoples money, it has, without doubt got much worse in recent years.

There are many ways that people can be misled into parting from their money from complete lies to just giving the impression that a person is qualified and experienced enough to competently undertake the task required by the client when they are patently not. In the world of 'Dog Training' when you encounter one of these often well meaning people and it all goes horribly wrong, it will not be their fault, oh no, it will be your fault for having that particular breed of dog, whatever it might be. "Well if you will get a (fill in breed name here), what do you expect?" Is what you'll hear, or maybe "That dog's over the top" or "Your dog's stupid, you won't be able to do anything with him".

In the canine world there is nothing to stop anyone from hiring a church hall and advertising 'Dog Training Classes' and taking peoples money when in fact they have little or no experience with dogs other than their own pet pooch at home. Indeed there is one very well known personality who makes a very good living from giving advice in how to deal with canine behavioural problems, who has never owned a dog. Another person in the same line of work who, although having some background in dogs, seriously over states their CV. Of course if someone had letters after their name that might reassure you. You could be misled. There are organisations that people can join, the only entry criteria being whether they can afford the fee, which then allow them to put a string of letters on their website. Poor old Joe Public comes along and says, "Hey these people are well qualified, lets go with them". Another ploy used by some people is to set up their own organisation which can allow letters to be used. There is one such person who lists themself as 'Chairman and Founder Member' of the particular association. Of course I can't help but wonder how many other members there are. Is this person any good? Who knows, but always check the reality behind the window dressing before spending money it may save you both grief and money further down the line.

There are many good 'dog people' out there I'm not trying to scaremonger I'm just saying be careful. If it's an obedience club, agility, field trials, flyball or any other dog activity that takes your fancy then go along without your dog and just watch. Do the instructors seem competent? Do they need to use gadgets to achieve the desired result? Is there any aggression used either verbal or physical? do the owners seem happy? And most important of all, how are the dogs reacting? Always ask questions. If the trainer, consultant, listener or whisperer, the title doesn't matter, is evasive then walk away. If your instinct makes you unsure then you're probably right.

As a 'Jan Fennell Dog Listener' I welcome this legislation because I know that I, and all of my colleagues working under Jan's name, with her blessing, are squeaky clean. Jan is a very strong lady who holds the integrity of 'Amichien Bonding' as sacrosanct. This system is her baby, she developed and refined it and introduced the rest of the canine world to it and she's not going to let others come along and hijack it.

Why would people do that? Because when the words Dog Listener are used, even if they don't know her name people think of Jan Fennell. As a result it's easy for people to use the name or variations of it to hitch their waggon to a rising star, much easier than making your own reputation isn't it? Jan could very easily have sold franchises as other organisations do and she'd have been a very rich woman. However the welfare of both dog and owner has always been Jan's first and only concern.

When someone approaches Jan wishing to become a Dog Listener they have to attend a foundation course. At this time Jan will decide if the student has the potential to go further. If so they are invited (just paying some money won't do) to attend the advanced course. On successful completion of this course they become a 'Non Active Dog Listener' moving on to 'Preliminary Dog Listener' then to 'Recommended Associate Dog Listener' and then 'Highly Recommended Dog Listener'. At every stage to progress to the next level or maintain their current status, every Dog Listener must fulfill a number of strictly enforced criteria including, every client having phone or email back up for the life of their dog and full case histories of consultations going to Jan so that she can monitor the standard of work and contact clients direct. Every client is given an evaluation form which goes direct to Jan as a quality control measure. Every Dog Listener that reaches and maintains the standards set by Jan is listed on her website.

So if you need help with your dog and you find someone on the internet, not matter what they call themselves or describe their work, before you book them check Jan's website and see if the 'Dog Listener (or variant) is listed. If not I suggest that you adopt the voice of a night club doorman and say, "If your name's not on the list, you're not coming in"

Wolf Watching

As promised an update on my exploits watching wolves in Montana and Wyoming. It's been delayed because I never dreamed I would be so busy.

In early February I flew from Heathrow to Chicago meeting up with several other dog Listeners on the way. After an overnight stop we flew to Bozeman, Montana where the whole group assembled and met our guides Nathan and Linda, biologists who had been involved in the re-introduction of wolves to Yellowstone from its inception to the present. To say that they were knowledgeable would be doing them a grave injustice. They not only seemed to know everything but everyone as well. Nathan had been brought up in Yellowstone and through his research and involvement with the wolf project had met and married Linda. If you want to go on a trip of a life time then you will not do better than to contact them at http://www.wolftracker.com/ they were great from arrival to departure.

As well as Nathan and Linda our group also included Jan Fennell and Dog Listeners not only from the UK and Ireland but also the USA, New Zealand and Belgium. We then had fairly lengthy drive to Gardiner Montana our first base of operations. The weather was cold and the snow deep but we were well equipped and so able to deal with it. The evening of the first day ended with an evening meal and presentation at the Animal Track Education Centre, a place we would come to know well.

The following (and every other) morning we were up, dressed and out in the car park before 0600 to await the arrival of Nathan and Linda. They arrived punctually as always and straight away started dispensing coffee, hot chocolate (my favourite) and breakfast such as hot Danish pastries and other decadent nibbles. It was great! Every morning breakfast was different but always good.

After breakfast it was into the vehicles and off to the Northern Range where we spent a lot of our time in the first phase of the trip in and around Lamar Valley and Slough Creek. we hadn't been on the road long when a lone black wolf popped out onto the road in front of us and disappeared up the bank opposite. It wasn't a well animal and was thought to be a survivor of a pack that had been decimated. Very sad and our hearts went out to her but nature in the raw is a hard taskmaster. We were to see this wolf several times during our stay and she seemed to be holding on, no mean feat for a young animal without the support of a pack.

Every morning we would get to our observation points and the spotting scopes would go up and as always, guided by Nathan and Linda almost at once we would start seeing wolves. I've spoken to people who've been wolf spotting and seen virtually nothing. Everyday we saw something tremendous. We saw three of the major packs in Yellowstone, the Druid Peak pack, the Slough Creek pack (a lot of history between those two) and the seldom seen Leopold pack as well as several unknown wolves. We witnessed the Alphas of the Druids mating, one of the 'unknowns' trying to seduce and lure away at least one of the Druid daughters to start a new pack. We saw wolves at a kill being 'mugged' by ravens. There were just so many behaviours on show. Play, courtship, mating, discipline, relaxation, guarding and parenting. Each of these behaviours invaluable to us in our work with 'canis familiaris' the domestic dog. Throughout the day we would eat a variety of things standing in the snow. Cold meats, cheese, peanut butter maybe some soup. You would think that we would suffer from the cold but we didn't.

Perhaps the hardest physical part of the trip was an uphill snowshoe trek to see an abandoned wolf den. To say that using snowshoes requires a little skill and co-ordination would be an understatement. We made it after much falling over and giggling but of course we had to get back and now we were tired and heading downhill in thin air which makes breating difficult. I really hated gravity that day.

We would watch wolves until it got too dark and then it was back for a freshen up and then to the education centre and the one hot meal of the day while enjoying some tremendous presentations from some of the major names in wolf research. people like Jim Halfpenny, Daniel Stahler, Bob Landis, film maker, who has won an Emmy for his films on Yellowstone wolves. He showed us, as yet unshown footage for his next film. we were entertained one lunchtime at the home of Dan Hartman naturalist and wildlife photographer. The beauty of where Dan lives is just amazing. This is a word that was used a lot by our group, so much so that it was banned. It cost anyone saying amazing in any context a bottle of wine. It was at Dan's house that I took a picture of a Pine Marten of which I'm quite proud.

Although the object of the trip was to research wolves and that's what we did on most days from morning 'til night we also saw a host of other wildlife and their behaviours such as coyotes, also a fascinating animal one of whom came very close to me in the field. He was wearing a radio collar so that he could be tracked. We also saw Bison, the most dangerous animals in the park, Elk, Pronghorns and all manner of birds including Bald Eagles that I felt a certain affinity with. We did not see any bears in the wild as they were hibernating although we did see several in a rescue centre that had been orphaned.

For the second part of the trip we were based in the town of West Yellowstone a bit more modern than Gardiner which gave us access to other areas of the park and its wildlife. It was from here that we had a tracked 'snow coach' to visit the area around 'Old Faithful'. The trip was eventful from the start when we waited in vain for the coach. Several phone calls and another wait later it turned up. Its appearance didn't fill me with confidence as we were travelling a fair distance into a hostile environment where mobile phones didn't work. We set off and the vehicle didn't sound or feel right. As the morale officer I was saying things like "we're going to break down". or "I can smell burning". Unusually I was right, because it was at this point that the vehicle filled with smoke and steam and we came to a halt. Luckily the vehicle was fitted with a radio and a replacement vehicle was brought out to us. This was much newer and more comfortable so we continued our journey. we visited 'Old Faithful' and saw it blow, this was probably the only part of the whole trip that didn't impress me. It was OK but I was expecting something earthshaking but it just went 'phut, phut.........phut, phut, phut' and then a mild 'whoosh' and it was all over. It's only well known because of its regularity. Some of the other geysers, and there are many, I found much more interesting because you just never know, if.....or when? Particularly when I found that some of the geysers we were looking at featured in a book I'd bought about 'Death in Yellowstone' one of the two most bought books in the park. I also bought a copy of the second most popular for my grandson, James. It is the delightfully titled 'Who Pooped in the Park?'

This final part of our trip gave us some time in the evenings and we were able to discover a local restaurant and bar by the name of 'Bullwinkles' where we had some good times. the locals wherever we went were really friendly but at Bullwinkles after having had a whole cow on your plate we were able to relax and mingle with the locals over a glass of the local beer 'Moose Drool' or, for the ladies, a glass of wine from the local label 'Three Blind Moose' I'm sure you've heard the saying "it does what it says on the label"?

At the end of our stay we all agreed that we'd had a wonderful time and that we would return, it was a fabulous experience. Although I'm not allowed to say amazing, I will say that I now know why Americans say 'Awesome' so much, because it is.

If you get the chance to see the wolves just do it. If you want five star comfort and spas save your money but if you want tremendous company, amazing (there I've said it and don't care) experiences, warm, clean basic hotels and don't forget............MOOSE DROOL!!!!! Then book now.

Crufts 2008

As you may have read in an earlier blog, a friend and colleague of mine Caroline Spencer have been supporting the rehabilitation of two dogs, Nowzad and Tali rescued by Royal Marine Sergeant 'Penny' Farthing from the abuse they were suffering in Afghanistan. They now live a life of luxury with Pen and his wife Lisa in the UK.

This connection is timely because the theme for the 2008 International Day of the Dog (IDOD) is rescue dogs and if ever dogs were in need of rescue, these were. IDOD is an event that takes place every April and is the brainchild of Jan Fennell 'The Doglistener', pioneer of the 'Amichien Bonding' method of canine communication.

Nowzad and Tali were one of five nominees for the Kennel Clubs 'Friends for Life' award which is awarded following a phone in vote by viewers to the BBC's Crufts programmes. The award ceremony is a huge event and can be overwhelming to both humans and dogs. It takes place in an arena in front of a crowd of 7000 and is screened live around the world to countless millions. A daunting prospect for anyone but the other nominees included an autistic boy, an 11 year old girl with cerebal palsy (the eventual winner) who had been virtually confined to a wheelchair until her dog gave her the confidence to start walking. There were also two ladies with severe mobility problems whose dogs, one a Newfoundland the other a black German Shepherd had given them their lives back. Every one of the six dogs nominated would have been a worthy winner.

Caroline and I had gone to Crufts to offer support to Pen and Lisa, not in a partisan way but to ensure that the dogs went into that arena in a calm state of mind to do otherwise would not be right. Until the end of 2007 they had lived their lives in a war zone. Why should they trust a human unless he dressed as a Royal Marine? It was important that Pen and Lisa knew we were there, they knew what they had to do but they didn't want us with them every waking minute. We stressed to them the techniques that they had to work on right up to the big moment. As long as they knew that at any time if there was a problem we were able to be with them within minutes to resolve the situation. We also had to be at the arena entrance to make that final decision at the very last moment, how are the dogs going to cope? Are there going to be be both humans and dogs in the arena or only one or even no dogs just Pen and Lisa?

Because as always, we have the interests of all dogs at heart we were, with the blessing of the Kennel Club able to work with and offer assistance to all of the nominees and dogs. They were all delightful people with wonderfully supportive families. Obviously in a time frame of a couple of days we can't deal with every problem but that was not our aim. We just needed to ensure that both owner and dog were happy throughout the ceremony and not subjected to any undue stress.

It was my turn to drive and so because I was having a lady passenger, the day before we travelled I washed my car and discovered that I own a blue one. I then cleaned the interior and removed the old newspapers and cleared the pens (32 in number) from the front passenger seat and filled the fuel tank. I was leaving at 5.30 am and so wanted everything ready so that I could get in and go. Just before going to bed I had to do a pick up job, it was at this point that one of my headlights decided to pack up obviously a taster of what was to come. To change a headlight on my car requires a degree in advanced electrical engineering and hands the size of a three year old. Late at night with an early start and long drive ahead the prospect filled me with dread. I knew that if I attempted it I'd be left with skinned knuckles and a foul temper. My wife then suggested I take her car as she wouldn't need a vehicle until daylight and could use mine. Problem solved, I transferred all my luggage, refuelled (again) and was ready to go.

The following morning I set off as planned, picked up Caroline en route and headed for Birmingham. We decided to go and locate our hotel first because as our decision to go to Crufts had been taken only in the past few weeks all the hotels near the venue were booked solid. We managed to find accomodation at an establishment some distance away that was clearly modelled on Bate's Motel. Having found the place and so understanding why they had vacancies, we headed for the show.

If you have never been to the NEC at Birmingham let me tell you that it is a very impressive range of halls. The car parks are massive and managed in a very unusual way. Normally the first arrivals at a venue are placed closest to the event, not at the NEC, the first arrivals are placed in the car parks furthest away. When you realise that this could place you just a little bit north of Manchester you begin to sense the annoyance felt when you realise that the people who didn't get out of bed until after lunch are able to park by the front door.

We were placed in car park North 12. It was so far north that all the staff were Glaswegian. There are shuttle buses to the doors which are free after you've paid your £8 parking charge but the queues were horrendous so, having been told that it was only a 10 minute walk we decided on that option. There is a different perception of time and distance in Birmingham but eventually after coming across several remote South American tribes we arrived at the doors only to discover that they were at the opposite end of the complex to the show itself but unfazed we pushed on.

Huge, crowded and noisy are the words to come to mind. when I was in Montana recently watching wolves (blog to follow) I saw on US tv reports of a prestigious dog show which was reported as "The Worlds Biggest Dog Show" they boasted of having "over 2000 dogs competing". At Crufts I saw competitors wearing numbers well over 20,000. There are an array of halls used with breeds being judged, agility competitions and all manner of dog related activities. There were also countless stalls selling everything from really useful equipment to tasteless rubbish. For me the slate clocks with the naff pictures of various breeds of dogs on them got my 'DelBoy, Most Favourite Piece of Tat Award' although the reflective dog bandanas came a very close second.

As previously mentioned the day progressed and Caroline and I developed a rapport with the Kennel Club staff dealing with the Friends fo Life Awards, and got involved not only with Pen and Lisa but with the other nominees as well. We were heavily involved in the rehearsals which take place after the show closes to the public on Saturday evening. By the time we left to return to the car it was like a ghost town. All the Nominees, Kennel Club and BBC staff were staying at the Hilton Hotel directly opposite the NEC. We looked at the signposts and found ones that directed us to the South and East car parks but nothing else, I then found a sign mentioning North car park but it was preceded with the words 'No Access to'. We walked and walked until we found a security hut. when we asked the way the guard was helpful but couldn't supress a laugh. He pointed us in the right direction? And off we went again, two further encounters with security guards and over three quarters of an hour later we found my car, alone, in a vast empty carpark, no wonder it was whimpering. At last, back to the hotel and some food. Yeah right! We followed the directions to the exit only to find locked gates! We turned around and drove through the complex following various exit signs all of which led to more locked gates. Suddenly there were no security guards to be found, they were all probably rolling around on the floor laughing, watching us on cctv. Eventually more by luck than judgement we found the only unlocked exit from the site which for some reason did not have an exit sign.

On our return to our hotel we asked about getting a meal, no chance, it was Saturday night and they did have a large restaurant but they weren't able to do food although they could sell us a packet of crisps in the bar. When we asked about other options we were given a choice between the Indian Restaurant across the other side of the dual carriageway and, oh I forgot, there was no other choice. We had a nice stroll to the eating place via the seductively lit, urine drenched underpass which although unpleasant did mask the smell of diesel.

On reaching the restaurant we were quite concerned, we were starving and it was Saturday night in Birmingham the curry centre of the UK. Would they have a table for us? We were lucky, they did have a table for us, in fact they had all the tables for us. The place was empty but no problem, that meant we'd get served quickly before the late night rush came in, wrong again. Still looking on the bright side the wait must mean that our meal is being lovingly prepared, the herbs and spices being hand crafted by ancient 'spice gurus'. If you can't get a good curry in Birmingham where can you? I don't know, I just know that you can't in this particular one. The meal when it arrived was awful. I've seen better looking fatal accidents and it tasted dreadful. The only saving grace was that the portions were small. When we left we still the only customers hmmmm, I wonder why!

Sunday arrived, the big day and we had an early start. We strode into the hotel carpark and I pressed the remote unlocking button on my car keys and nothing happened. After trying several more times I realised that the battery in the key must need replacing, strange as it's a fairly new car. After opening the car manually we found that it would not start. It was at this stage that I lost the will to live but, undeterred, I did a thorough, in depth mechanical evaluation and discovered that someone (I have no idea who) had left the lights on all night. Luckily a good Samaritan came to our aid with a magic battery booster and all was well. Nobody ever need know unless my wife reads this blog, Doh!!!

On our arrival at the NEC we found ourselves in carpark North 10B which seemed to be even further away than Saturdays North 12. at least we knew where we were going this time and were able to get straight to work. We spent the day moving between the NEC and Hilton Hotel, working with those nominees that wanted help or assistance of any sort as well as making sure that people were in the right place at the right time and in the right frame of mind. This was made a little difficult when while escorting the nominees to a suite where a buffet and recption had been arranged for them we were denied access by security who were utterley unconcerned that these people had passes and most had mobility problems. I even pointed out that these people had their pictures and stories across several pages of the official programme and were being shown nightly on BBC tv. After a lot of flared nostrils and intervention from the highest level of the Kennel Club our party was allowed through. It did solve one mystery, if you ever wonder what happened to the Krankies now that they are no longer on tv I can tell you. They are working as security guards at the NEC.

When the big moment came all the dogs went into the arena and behaved beautifully. Just prior to their entrance Pen and Lisa were in the holding area doing some exercises with Nowzad and Tali designed to focus the dogs attention on them and disregard the noise and lights in the arena. At this stage some complete moron, a member of a 'Dog Training' club complete with heavily logoed polo shirt tried to stare Nowzad out. A stupid move for anyone, but for a man who was so full of his own wind and importance about how 'good' he was with dogs it was criminal. he took an aggressive stance like a nightclub doorman and kept moving so that he could maintain eye contact which as all real dog people know is a challenge when done in that manner. Caroline told Pen to keep turning away from the threat and keep his pulse rate down so that Nowzad was not stressed. Both Caroline and I asked this man to desist but he ignored us, Pen was remarkably restrained which was great because had he reacted Nowzad would have lost the plot. I on the other hand was probably a bit more 'proactive' and had a full and frank exchange of opinions with this man, I'd had my fill of fools for that day.

Once the presentation was over we were ready for home. We even managed to get a shuttle bus to the carpark and find my car. Would it start? Yes!! We weren't even fazed when as on the previous night the gates had all been locked, we knew where to go. We arrived home very tired, it had been a hectic couple of days but we both felt that we had achieved something really worthwhile. We hope to build on the advances and contacts we made.

New Year New Status

Well here we are in 2008 and my trip to Montana to visit the wolves is getting ever closer. I have a very busy year ahead with many engagements already booked. I am, for once, so organised that I didn't think anything could surprise me. I was wrong.

I was until recently a 'Recommended Associate Dog Listener' which was the highest achievable ranking in the world of Dog Listeners. It's a hard earned title starting with attending a foundation course run by Jan Fennell 'The Dog Listener'. Selected people who successfully complete that course are invited to attend the advanced course. All the participants are selected personally by Jan as having that 'certain something.' Once the course is completed it's a long road fulfilling a number of criteria involving consultations, evaluations, canine welfare work moving fom 'Non Active' to 'Preliminary Dog Listener' to the highly coveted 'Recommended Associate Dog Listener' . When I got there I thought I had it made.

Imagine my astonishment (and a little bit of pride) when Jan announced that she was introducing a new enhanced status for a small number of 'Recommended Associates' who would be known as 'Highly Recommended Dog Listeners' And that I was one of them. For once my name was on the list and I was getting in;-)

I'm not after fame and fortune, just recognition and money.

Looking Forward to 2008

This will probably be the last post of 2007. A big thank you to those who have contacted me either through the blog or directly. I take note of all your comments either positive or negative. Even if you do not agree with everything I say, and if I have not been able to convince you that using Amichien Bonding and being non confrontational or non violent to your dog is the way forward. At least I hope it has caused you to stop and think, if only for a moment, that oppression of any sort only works in a limited and short term way.

2007 was hectic and next year promises to be even more so. We had petitions to Downing Street to ban the use of cruel training aids such as prong collars and electric collars. The Government response was predictable. They care deeply about animal welfare (really they do). Yeah right.

My understanding of their response was 'When dogs get the vote, come and see us. Until then we're not interested.'

Well perhaps we can focus their minds a little more next year, which can I remind you is 2008. The Government MUST call an election by 2009. They have dug themselves into a deeper and deeper hole over the last few months. They have sent the armed forces to war with inadequate equipment or back up and then cocked up their pay so that some serviceman are unable to pay their mortgages. They have upset nurses by reneging on their pay agreement and now they've done the same to the police. Think of all those Service men and women, doctors, nurses and police who are thoroughly disenchanted with the government. Don't forget that all of those workers have families who can also vote! How many of these people live in marginal constituencies?

If the government want to get re-elected they need to get their act together. The same applies to the opposition parties hoping to take power from them. Therefore the plan for 2008 is to put all parties in a position in which they agree BEFORE the election that, should they win, they will take steps to ban all such equipment.

I'm off to Montana in early February with Jan Fennell, to see the wolves of Yellowstone, but on my return I will be kick-starting the campaign with letters to every sitting MP no matter if in government or opposition. Also letters to every prospective Parliamentary candidate of all parties and in every constituency. I will have template letters on my website for you to download. A petition is one contact as far as a politician is concerned, a letter needs to be read and responded to on an individual basis.

It's all go getting ready for Montana at the moment. I got a fair amount of the specialist kit I need as Christmas presents so I just need to top up with thermal underwear and I'm ready to go. My wife, Rosemary is great and has been very supportive. I think that at first she would have liked to go as well although it is a research based trip and not a holiday, but when I got all the paperwork and saw that snow-shoes are supplied she lost all enthusiasm for the project.

Of course I have to show my appreciation of her support and so offered to take her anywhere she wanted. She said "Somewhere warm with some culture." My first offer of a holiday job in a yogurt factory didn't go down too well so it will probably be Greece or Florence instead.

I've Been to the Dogs But Now.........

I'm going to the wolves! The trip of a lifetime, early in February I will be in Montana watching wolves in their home environment. I will be going with Jan Fennell, the founder of the 'Amichien Bonding' method of canine communication, and several other 'Dog Listeners' from around the world. The whole philosophy of Dog Listeners is based on the way wolves and other wild canines interact in the wild.

This will be no holiday but a huge educaion, the trip is research based with, in addition to all the wolf spotting, presentations from wildlife biologists who specialise in and have been involved in the Yellowstone wolf recovery since its inception. We will also be meeting and having presentations from a number of other biologists, naturalists, film makers specialising in wolves and of course Jan Fennell herself. we will have expert guides with us at all times to put us in the right place at the right time to see the wolves interact in a natural way. we will be using snow shoes to get deep into the wolves heartland. I hope to get close-up, but as it will be the height of the breeding season, not too personal!

I expect it to be very cold, physically demanding but hugely enjoyable. The hands on knowledge that I get will be of immense value when dealing with clients dogs in the UK. I hope to come back with thighs of iron and a finely honed body. Of course I also hope for world peace but that's not going to happen either.

Hopefully I will return with some good photos and video together with some hair raising stories. Watch this space.

Christmas is Coming

Now that the annual two month period that makes up 'Bonfire Night' is nearly over we are well into the the run up to Christmas.

Both these periods are very busy ones for me and my fellow Dog Listeners. The phone rings off the hook.

Problems with dogs and fireworks fall into two categories, either the dog is traumatised and afraid or they go into 'Defence Drive' and want to face the threat and fight it off. Both of these reactions are incredibly stressful to both dog and owners.

What can 'Dog Listeners' do to reduce the effect of the firework season? A huge amount, but it makes it so much easier if you put the measures in place before all the noise starts, rather than wait until your best friend is suffering a nervous reaction. Then, next time the rockets come out your dogs reaction will be, "Am I bovvered?"

The same thing applies at Christmas. You have a house full of people many of whom you haven't seen since last year. There are excited children and noisy toys. Family arguments, loads of food and even more drink.

Dogs generally don't celebrate Christmas. All they know is that the pack dynamic has changed. They ask questions "Who are all these people in my den? Why are they so noisy? Why do they all think they can sing? Why do they give one another packets of socks?" And, most important of all "Why, when they leave nuts, sausage rolls and Christmas cake laying about where I can reach it do they then get upset when I throw up in Great Aunt Mary's handbag? How was I to know that a silly little thing like that would cause her to change her will?"

If you think Christmas is stressful for humans just try being a dog. At least you can get drunk or go to the bathroom with a book to have some 'time out'. The dog is trapped and at the mercy of a pack of humans who, are all of course, dog experts. They'll all shout contradictory commands at the dog and think it thick when it does not respond.

So, if you have a dog and expect a hectic household at Christmas I strongly recommend that you prepare in plenty of time. If you think that it might get too much for your dog contact a 'Qualified' Dog Listener, preferably me if you live in Southern England, before the problem arises. If you live out of my area I can still assist you by putting you in touch with your nearest 'Qualified' Dog Listener. I know that I keep stressing the word qualified but it is for a reason. There are a number of people who give themselves the title when they have no connection with Amichien Bonding at all. I know of one person who uses the title and advocates (and sells) electric shock collars and other cruel and stress inducing equipment. If you're not sure if someone is genuine go to Jan Fennell's website and there you will find all fully trained Dog Listeners both in the UK and around the world listed. They are either 'Recommended Associate Dog Listeners' like myself, or, 'Preliminary Dog Listeners' who are working their way to full accreditation. If they're not on either list then they're bogus. If you decide against employing a Dog Listener then at the very least buy a copy of 'The Dog Listener' and read it. Do it now so that you can take action early.

Whatever else you do PLEASE DO NOT buy a dog as a present. It will only end in tears. the pup will be removed from it's Mother and siblings and placed into what will seem like a madhouse to them. They will get under peoples feet, they will not have time to work out where they fit into this new pack, you will not have time to start with house training which in turn inevitably will mean 'accidents'. The list of problems is endless. If you are being nagged to buy a puppy then wait until spring when people are more relaxed and you can have the outside doors open more often to help with house training. But what can you give at Christmas in place of a puppy? You can give a vitual puppy, a picture of a dog that the recipient can change for a real animal in the Spring. you could also give leads, collars, food and waterbowls as well as a copy of 'The Seven Ages of Your Dog' by Jan Fennell which is a brilliant book and covers from birth to death and everything in between.

A couple of bits of advice, if you're going to book a 'Dog Listener' don't hang about, we tend to get very busy around this time of year when people remember what happened last year. We also have a rush of bookings straight after the festive season with clients wanting to avoid a repetition of the latest 'stressfest'. If you want to buy any of the books mentioned the simplest way is to go to the links page of my website.

If you give a dog, you're not giving a present you're giving a life. Can the recipient deal with that?

Doing some catching up

It's fairly apparent that except for the last couple of days I haven't been blogging very much lately. "Why not?" Or maybe "Thank God" I hear you cry. The simple answer is, workload. This is good for me because I love what I do. I hope that it is also good for the dogs and their owners that I deal with on a daily basis.

I saw in the papers yesterday that Britain is now a nation of bloggers with over four million people blogging regularly. It seems that 23% of women and 17% of men blog daily. I'm sure that fascinating as my day to day life is, you don't want to read about it. It is my intention to only write a blog when I have something to say rather than take you through my breakfast menu (Quaker oats with golden syrup, a banana and coffee if you must know). We should be living our lives rather than recording every waking moment.

One episode I must mention is an evening spent at Merrist Wood Agricultural College watching the legendary and iconic Monty Roberts: 'The Horse Whisperer' or, as he prefers to be called, 'The Man Who Listens To Horses.' When you've worked as a Police Officer for the 35 years that I did, you find yourself not easily impressed by people just because they are 'celebs' whatever that means. But I defy you to attend one of Monty's demonstrations and not come away awe struck. it's not just what he achieves with these 'untrainable ' horses in such a short time but the way that he does it, quietly, gently with no flashiness or gimmicks. He is a modest committed man whose only concern is for the welfare of the horses. If you get a chance to see him in the flesh I urge you to do it, you'll come away with a smile on your face.

Monty's impact is not confined to Horses. He also has a huge involvement in helping disadvantaged children and young people. The principles of Amichien Bonding Jan Fennell's method of canine communication used by me and other certified 'Dog Listeners' are founded on Monty's philosophy. He is truly a great man and I think even more important, a good man.

Radio Interview for Cruel Gadget Campaign

I did a short bit on Fred Marden's breakfast show on BBC Southern Counties Radio on the 27th April to raise awareness of my campaign for IDOD.

Listen here.

The quality is not great but it gives a flavour of what we are attempting to do.

Amnesty For Cruel 'Training Aids'

Recently I did a consultation with a really nice family and their two dogs, one twelve months the other seven months. They were of good temperament and eager to please but very exuberant. They moved around the house like a tornado and climbed all over people, family and visitors alike. Common problems that can be dealt with in a stress free way using Amichien Bonding. That was where I came in.

We had the consultation and put in place measures to address all issues raised. During the course of the consultation I was told that they had tried several other 'training' methods including the dogs being sent away for 'residential training' which involved not only the high cost of such techniques but also the sale of 'essential', extra 'specialist 'equipment for continuation training. Some so called trainers take the concern and commitment many owners have for their dogs as a licence to print money.

When the consultation was over the client showed me a piece of equipment he had been sold by one of these trainers. This piece of kit goes under a number of names 'German Collar', 'Pinch Collar' 'Prong Collar' and 'Spiked Collar' to use the most common. The client told the trainer that he didn't want it (he'd already been charged for it). The trainer responded that he wouldn't make progress without it, (so what had been happening at the residential training?). The client told the trainer that he thought such equipment cruel, and would not use it. And then the trainer came out with a real gem, he explained that it is not at all cruel but, 'just replicates the gentle but firm way that a bitch picks up a puppy'!!

I was given this unwanted piece of equipment, to take it out of circulation and to highlight the widespread use of such cruel methods.

For those of you out there lucky enough to have not seen such equipment in action let me explain how it is used. The chain is placed around the dogs neck spikes facing inwards, with a little bit of free play and then attached to a lead. The dog is then taken for a walk or put through training exercises. If at any time the handler feels that the dog needs correction he pulls the lead as quickly and as hard as he can. The chain rapidly tightens around the dogs neck and the spikes (or prongs as the users prefer to call them because "They're not that sharp") not only stick into the neck but at the same time pinch large areas of flesh between the quickly closing spikes (as I prefer to call them). The dog screams and is traumatised.

The end justifies the means say the supporters of this, and other brutal methods of 'training'. "Next time he'll do as he's told" they say. I suppose that I would be obedient if someone tried to rip my head off and dug bits of metal against my spinal column and windpipe. But would I like or respect the person who did it to me? Of course not. Would I work as hard as I could and to the best of my ability for that person? Of course not. Would I, given the opportunity rip that persons heart out and show it to them while it was still beating? You betcha!!

Another means of using this collar is when 'teaching' a dog not to chase. They may run over to see another dog in the park or maybe chase a cyclist or jogger. These are of course behaviours that are unacceptable but there are humane methods of dealing with them. When using the spiked collar to 'cure' this problem you once again put the collar on the dog. instead of a lead you fasten a long, strong rope or nylon line (15/20 yards) which you tie to a tree or metal post. You then set up a situation which sparks the chasing behaviour such as a jogger running close to but just out of range of the limit of the line. The dog runs, and on reaching the end of the line the collar tightens, the spikes dig in and as an added bonus the dog is flipped onto his back. In fairness I have to say this works, I have seen dogs so 'cured' that when anything is placed around their neck they urinate involuntarily and refuse to move in case some wants to 'cure' them of something else! What a way to treat mans best friend.

As you may have read in some of my previous posts there are many other cruel pieces of 'training equipment' out there which really shouldn't exist in a civilised country. Electric collars, mustard sprays, citrus sprays etc etc.

April 29th 2007 is the second International Day of the Dog when Jan Fennell, 'The Dog Listener' and her 'Associate Dog Listeners' try to raise peoples awareness of Canine Welfare in general and the prevention of Cruelty and Bullying in particular, by the use of a variety of events and publicity.

My goal for this years 'IDOD' is to encourage owners using such 'Training Aids' first of all to STOP and THINK and then hopefully STOP USING THEM. Most pet owners are not cruel, they only want the best for their dogs. They hit a problem and get misled by some quick talking salesman or carefully worded advert which tells them that if they buy product X it will solve all their problems in one quick fix. Because they care about their dogs but are panicked by some behaviour problem they find themselves the owner of the latest gadget which generally promises much but delivers little, if anything, to help either dog or owner.

I hope to go a little further than just getting people to stop using this equipment. My intention is to get people to hand in such equipment to such places as Vets Surgeries and Local Authority Dog Wardens rather like the gun and knife amnesties when people can leave weapons in a box at Police Stations, no questions asked. The intent would be the same. To take harmful equipment out of circulation. and to let people make a committment that they will no longer accept the use of such barbaric methods in the name of training.

I am the process of contacting Vets, local papers, radio and other potential interested parties asking for their support. Watch this space. If you have any ideas or can offer support in any way it would be great to hear from you.

Of course you don't have to wait until 29th April to stop using this equipment, you can do it today! If you don't want to make the trip to, or don't have a collection point near you just let me know that you've disposed of your equipment (and what it was) so that we can monitor our progress.

In an ideal world we would see all such equipment discarded but, if on 30th April, only one person has stopped using it then it will mean that at least one dog will not live their life in fear or risk permanent physical or psychological damage. That'll do for a start.

Dog Listener Down Under

A reminder that for those of you in the UK, a new series starts at 6:30 p.m. on Monday 4th December 2006 on Animal Planet. In this series Jan Fennell will be in New Zealand dealing with a variety of dogs with a variety of problems. Please note that I did not say 'problem dogs'. Dogs are easy, it's only humans that make things complicated.

If you have never seen Jan work this is a must see, I defy you not to be impressed. Unlike many tv problems dealing with similar issues nothing is staged. What you see is what happens, much of it in 'real time'.

How can Jan be so open? Because as I have said before, Amichien Bonding works. It really is as simple as that.

One Sunday in Dorchester

I had an early start on Sunday as I was off to Dorchester to attend a talk by Jan Fennell 'The Dog Listener' and founder of the 'Amichien Bonding' method of canine communication.

I drove to a remote location in Wiltshire and met a friend Caroline Spencer who is like me a Dog Listener, and a very good one. Although she doesn't have, of course my natural boyish charm. What she does have is a wealth of knowledge and experience with all aspects of gun dog training. I've had to give her a plug because she drove the rest of the journey there and back.

The talk was, as always inspirational and was very well received by the audience who came from a variety of backgrounds. There were members of dog training clubs, pet owners, owners of working and sporting dogs and even three members of the Dorset Police Dog Section. At the end of quite a long day I think even the most hardened cynic went away thinking that there might be something in it for them.

For the Dog Listeners present it was a good opportunity to meet potential clients and 'spread the word' but also to meet up with Jan and each other. I'm looking forward to the next one.

Talk By Jan Fennell at Dorchester

Just a quick plug for a talk by Jan Fennell 'The Dog Listener' and founder of 'Amichien Bonding' which is taking place at Dorchester in Dorset on Sunday 22nd October 2006. The event will last from 11a.m. to 4p.m. and the ticket price will include a light lunch. All profits will go to the 'Hearing Dogs' charity who do truly wonderful work.

If you are really interested in the way your dog sees this world and their relationship with us humans you must attend this event. Jan will give you an insight into the thought process of your dog that you never knew existed. she will do it in such a way that you will end the day saying to yourself, 'Of course. It's just so obvious'. There will be time for questions at the end of the talk.

In addition to Jan there will be a number of Jan trained 'Dog Listeners' present. All holders of the Amichien Certificate in Advanced Canine Communication. They cover South and South west England and, I think, at least one representative from Wales. Jan spends so much time travelling the World now promoting Amichien Bonding that we like to meet up with her whenever the chance presents itself.

If you can get to Dorchester on the 22nd you can buy your tickets in advance by visiting www.speakdog.co.uk One day in Dorset could drastically improve your relationship with your dog for the rest of his life and with any other dogs you will own in the future.

Improved Service

With immediate effect all 'Amichien' Recommended Associate Dog Listeners will be subject to continual monitoring and will have to prove that they are providing and maintaining a high standard of service to keep their qualified status. This is a move that we all strongly support, we are proud of the help that we can give to both dog and owners.

The monitoring will take several different forms. All clients will be issued a comprehensive post consultation evaluation form which they can send direct to Jan Fennell without the consulting Dog Listener having sight of the form. This is to enable the client to record their true feelings of all aspects of the service without feeling pressured. The consulting Dog Listener will provide in depth case histories direct to Jan Fennell including problems faced by dog and/or owner and all advice given to the client. A number of clients (with their consent) will be contacted by Jan at random to ensure that standards are maintained.

The system is constantly being evaluated for further ways to improve customer service.

Comment by 'A Real Professional'

I always enjoy reading comments to my blog or website but I was surprised by one that popped-up over the weekend that referred to my earlier post Why use Amichien bonding? I started to read and, Oh Dear!! Mr or Mrs Angry or what?

The comment started with an attack on Jan Fennell as a person and on her methods in fact on the whole idea of Amichien bonding. It then went on to refer to a link which when I accessed it was pure poison. Who is this person that we practioners of Amichien have upset so much? I pondered. It seemed that the only thing they didn't say was that my kids were ugly! I looked to see who the message was from and saw that he or she had signed themselves 'A Real Professional' but had decided to remain anonymous. That made me angry. Here we have someone claiming to be Professional but failing to give any clue as to their background, making sweeping statements and criticisms without having the moral courage to stand-up and say "This is who I am, this is what qualifies me to speak, these are my criticisms and this is my evidence." The writer, who I shall hereafter call RP as their assumed name, clearly does not know Jan (or does he/she?), they clearly have not understood my earlier post.

I thought some more and then it came to me, of course, if RP is a Professional then that must make us all amateurs. I thought about the dogs I have worked and of the many lives they've saved by finding missing children, vulnerable elderly people and attempted suicides. I thought about the large amounts of drugs they've recovered (how many lives saved there I wonder?). About all the bad guys they've locked-up. About keeping the streets (and me) safe. About all the work raising the profile not only of Police Dogs but all dogs and those that work for their welfare. About working with my dogs to give people with special needs and with terminally ill children from Chernobyl a bit of fun. During my Police service, and beyond, I dealt with dogs with behavioural problems. So on reflection I really think I can call myself a Professional, my history is open to public scrutiny. I don't feel the need to sign myself Anonymous. Why should I? Why should anyone?

I think about the other'Amateurs' using the Amichien system. Off the top of my head I can think of another retired Police Dog Handler, a gun dog trainer, an Instructor for Guide Dogs for the Blind, Dog Rescue workers, Kennel owners and Dog Groomers. They all seem to know what they're doing. None of these are stupid people, we have all seen the variety of 'traditional' training methods at first hand. So why do we all decide to use Amichien? Let me see. Because it works. Because it is stress free and it works for every breed and for every non medically based problem. Of course the system has to used consistently. If you were on a diet, went to the gym and ate salad all day but had six pints of beer and a box of chocolates every night at bedtime, you would still be a fat bloater no matter how many lettuce leaves you ate.

Now I don't want you think that I have a suspicious mind or believe in conspiracy theories, but, why should RP get so het up over a stress free and gadget free. natural system? Unless, it was in someones interest to have a world full of screwed-up canines that would enable you to sell a range of ever more bizarre products at ever higher prices to 'deal' with the problem. If there was a system that didn't need expensive gadgets to resolve problems, that could be to some people in the dog world (I won't honour them with the title dog people) like a car than could run on water to a petrol company, very dangerous.

I was going to publish the whole comment by RP but when I followed the link it took me to a site selling a range of products including electric collars to shock your dog to obedience. Of course you could save yourself the cost of both electric collar and dog and just buy yourself a cabbage instead, because that is probably what you would be left with after canine ECT. There is no way that I will give any encouragement to anyone selling these barbaric items.

In conclusion I have a shrewd idea that RP is female, from the USA, has serious jealousy issues and probably sells 'training aids'. How close is that RP? I'm almost tempted to guess your initials!!