Barleors Labradoodles

Look how big they are now!

2010-11-23T23:24:00.002Z

More up to date pics of Monty with his now smaller older half-sister

How's everyone getting on?

2010-09-28T12:47:00.002+01:00

Hi everyone

I'm sorry its been such a long time since I've had the time to write to you all.

Back in January I decided to ditch all dog-related employment bar grooming and just focus on that. I can honestly say my feet haven't touched the ground since then!

Until now. I broke my right leg walking down the garden to feed the chickens on Thursday 9th September. So I'm desperately trying to catch up with everyone now during this somewhat enforced "down time".

I've got a facebook page for the grooming (Centre Stage Dog Grooming) and my personal facebook page is Katie Rourke Dowding, please, if you're already on Facebook, come and find me!

In the meantime, many thanks for keeping me updated with your puppy's progress. I love seeing the photographs, it means a great deal to me.

I look forward to seeing more of you over the next couple of months!

Furminator - grooming aid to help with shedding !!

2010-05-21T17:46:00.002+01:00

I saw this comb in a petshop for £40 and couldn't believe the price for a fancy metal comb. Cody sheds like mad so I looked it up and it got great reviews on Amazon. Can you believe I found it for £3-99 + around £4-50 delivery charge. It arrived this morning and works really well. Got masses of hair out very easily. Here's the link below for the large one. I bought from seller handystuff and it arrived the next day.

http://www.amazon.co.uk/gp/offer-listing/B0017HIG24/ref=dp_olp_new?ie=UTF8&condition=new

Chris

Molly & Monty

2010-05-15T22:38:00.004+01:00

These were taken at the local park in Barnsley, South Yorkshire while on a visit to my Aunts. The next door's granddaughter seems to have taken a liking to the two dogs and it seems to James too!!

2010-05-06T08:37:00.001+01:00

Have any / all of you seen this: http://www.naturalinstinct.com

Happy birthday

2010-05-02T18:27:00.003+01:00

A special day today and Cody has enjoyed a bigger than normal special breakfast. After a busy Sunday with lots of fresh air, he is now taking it easy in front of a real fire, trying his hardest not to chew the logs.

We went on a 3 hour walk recently near Hayling Island. Fortunately there was a pub at the end of it for essential rehydration. Here's a pic of Cody looking out to sea and another playing in the sand dunes

Happy Birthday

2010-05-02T13:22:00.001+01:00

A very Happy Birthday to all the 2009 Labradoodles.

A very special and loving one to Cody, we miss you like crazy but we know that you are having a wonderful life with your new mummy and daddy.

With all our love

Hayley, Denise and Mollie xxxxxx

Happy First Birthday

2010-05-01T17:21:00.001+01:00

Hi All

Happy first birthday to all the 2009 puppies who will be 1 year old tomorrow. With the exception of Isla, who will be 1 on the 3rd of May, ... just to be difficult!

I'll be walking tomorrow - does anyone care to join me?

Settling in

2010-04-12T09:46:00.002+01:00

2nd night for Cody in his new home and he's surpassed all expectations. I honestly can't think of anything he's done wrong (apart from squeaking his ball too much !!), The sun is out, patio door's open and where is he ? Laying down on the rug by me as I'm writing this. Sweet. He's a happy chappie.

Look at them now!

2010-03-10T23:35:00.004Z

Latest picture of the terrible two-some. Took both to the vets last Wednesday just for a weigh-in, Molly has managed to put on 1 kilo in a year, vet said she might now that she has been spayed and Monty has managed 1 kilo in 4 weeks. Molly weighs 26.6kilos and Monty is 28.45kilos and still looks like a skinny teenager but eats like a horse!! Hope everyone else is being eaten out of house and home!!

January 2010 Update

2010-01-29T22:36:00.003Z

Hi All

Sorry I've been so lax in keeping up with everyone and their news. I hope everyone had a wonderful Christmas and new year and that all the puppies are prospering.

We've been to hell and back with the non-existent house-move which seems to have chewed up months of my life!

We are no longer moving from Cheapside and I am concentrating solely on Dog Grooming from now on. I have re-branded myself and have opened Centre Stage Dog Grooming

Centre Stage is also on Facebook - hey - we're even on Twitter!!!!

Looking forward to catching up with you all over there - but still love seeing the pictures here so pleeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeease don't stop posting them!

XXX

Katie

Happy New Year

2010-01-03T17:01:00.003Z

Here is a recent picture of Heidi (Texas Rose 2007) after a lovely meeting and walk with her elder sister Bramble.

Bramble is sister to Hermione, Molly, Reece and others from Flossie and Charlie's 2006 litter.

We thought it shows nicely how different Heidi and Bramble's coats are, from the same parents.

Happy New Year to you all - please can we see some pics of Flossie's other children.

Ian, Jane & Heidi Holmes.

Puppies Weight

2009-12-04T20:38:00.002Z

As Monty has just reached the ripe old age of 7 months and we were near the vets today, we had him weighed and he is 25.6kilos. How are his siblings doing???

Cody update pics

2009-11-20T20:13:00.002Z

2009-11-20T20:03:00.001Z

Hi All x Newest Pics of our Cody x x x

Monty West

2009-11-18T19:22:00.004Z

Here you go, just getting into the festive season . . .

2009-10-29T21:01:00.003Z

Taken at our local park on the 18th October.

So Monty is not quite six months old and Molly is just over 3 years old, not much difference already.

Happy Second Birthday

2009-09-28T19:37:00.000+01:00

Heidi Holmes wishes her brothers and sister a very happy 2nd birthday.

Barleors Walk August '09

2009-09-11T12:28:00.002+01:00

And now - the final three pictures.

Don't forget you can click on each of these images to get high definition enlargements.

Cheers for now,

Ian, Jane and Heidi xxx

Barleors Walk August '09

2009-09-11T12:24:00.006+01:00

Here are five further images -

Barleors Walk August '09

2009-09-11T12:20:00.006+01:00

Here are five more pictures -

Barleors Walk August '09

2009-09-11T12:10:00.002+01:00

Now that I have sorted uploads (hadn't realised the text/heiroglyphics in box were actually showing as picture when published!!) - here are the next five pictures we wanted to publish for everyone on the walk, which we enjoyed so much.

Best regards to all,

Ian & Jane.

Trying larger image

2009-09-11T11:52:00.004+01:00

Testing upload for pics

2009-09-11T11:37:00.005+01:00

Cody and Water

2009-09-07T21:42:00.002+01:00

We where at a place called Pugneys park and it is great for walks and a swim. We all went on Friday just gone, but as normal I forgot the camera, so Mol and me took Cody on Sunday and the film shows you his second time in water. He is so funny as he tries to catch the waves. He met so many dogs on Sunday. There was a beautiful brown lab 4 months old just like Cody and Cody was 3 times as BIG (oh my goodness)... He just wants a play mate all the time, he is so trying to be friends with mum's cat Poppy but she will have none of it.

Kids go back to school tomorrow so hopefully will start going for walks with the other dogs that drop kids off.

Hope you enjoy the video, I'm getting better lol

Luvs us in the North xxxxxxx

2009-09-07T21:13:00.003+01:00

Barleors Walk 30 Aug'09 - pictures

2009-09-03T16:06:00.001+01:00

Hi Katie - I have set everything up and have put in title and text -
but each time I try to upload an image I just get text/hieroglyphics.

Is this a problem because I'm using a Mac - or do you know what the
problem might be?

Cheers,

Ian.

2009-08-31T15:45:00.003+01:00

A lovely photo, supplied by Ian (Jane's husband, owner of Heidi - full sister to Molly, Reese and Hermione) of everyone at the Doodle Dash held yesterday at Virginia Water.

Doodles Do it Dashingly!

Cody

2009-08-28T12:45:00.002+01:00

I'm still unsure of how to write by each one....still Naff..

Cody is growing so fast and eating us out of house and home.. We still give him chicken bones but mum has passed on it and just gives the ground patties.

He loves his walks and his behaviour of the lead near roads is just out of this world, Mark is such a proud father.

He can still get a bit excited and nip but this is not as frequent as it was before. His behaviour towards other dogs is brilliant, we could not have asked for a BETTER dog.

He is loved by all. I always forget to take the camera out when we are out and about so will strap it to my neck.

Hope these pics just show how much he has grown and how happy he is looking.

So Happy for you and your family in your move, make sure you tell us where it is and we come and stay as it sounds GREAT.

Love to all the Rousso's and Cody xxx

Update on CODY

2009-08-28T12:35:00.001+01:00

Monty's summer holidays.

2009-08-26T13:23:00.007+01:00

2009-08-24T14:59:00.005+01:00

Specifically for Susan...

Jenson and Daisy had a shared birthday party which was great fun!

The cake had a banana & chocolate bottom layer, a victoria sponge top layer and it was sandwiched with chocolate buttercream . I frosted the outside of the cake with vanilla buttercream and decorated it with Chocolate Buttons, Smarties and Mikados.

Monty Update

2009-08-20T13:16:00.004+01:00

Sorry I haven't been adding to the blog but have spent the last 4 weeks, working, sorting child care and visiting my Dad in hospital who had another small heart attack (4 now), so spending alot of time driving to and from the hospital every day. John also decided we should decorate James bedroom too, not good timing really.

Here is Monty tackling a chicken carcass yesterday, nearly as quickly as Molly now - has to be or she might nick it . . . she hasn't so far but there's always the chance. Molly is very good with Monty and Monty loves Molly as long as she will play with him every waking moment!

Would love to make the walk on the 30th (August) just not sure how things will be, will be in contact nearer the time.

PS: Hermonie looks lovely. Looks like you all enjoyed yourselves.

Jayne

2009-08-19T08:12:00.001+01:00

http://www.zappinternet.com/video/rotLciVxeQ/Soutg-Park-episode

Enjoy!

2009-08-18T08:35:00.002+01:00

Sorry its taken an almost unforgivable amount of time to answer these vital questions Hayley.

"I did ask the question re his Nuts to be polite, when they could be done and she said 6 months, so Katie could you please advise if you think this should be correct?"

No, I disagree with this Hayley. I think a dog is ready for castration when he has been confidently cocking his leg for about a month. Some dogs, like Jack Russells, are ready at about 6 months - but larger breeds notoriously take longer to mature and I would think 11 months is closer to the mark.

Girls should be spayed RIGHT IN THE MIDDLE of their seasons. So you can't spay at 6 months - before they've even had one... How do you know she's not about to come in? And you can't spay 3 months after the 1st season either - how do you know she's going to cycle regularly? (just look at Hermione...) But if you wait until her second season you should be able to guesstimate what is correct for YOUR bitch and spay between the second and third season.

"Also BIG thing, Mum has Cody when we are at work and the other day he had a chick wing and it got dislodged in his throat, mum said that he was making the utmost terrible noises and he was going crazy just like herself.. In the end she put her fingers down his throat and he brought up what had gone down..."

Your mum did exactly the right thing here. He's most likely learned his lesson from the panic of getting a wing stuck (which is actually far more unusual than one might imagine). You could continue to grind up the bones, but I think you'll find he'll be more cautious now anyway. I don't feed bones unsupervised at any time just to be on the safe side - but none of mine have ever had this happen to them.

Can we have some more puppy pics from EVERYBODY please?

I'm doing a walk on Sunday 30th if anyone wants to join me?

2009-08-16T11:12:00.011+01:00

We're back from Holiday!

Here is Hermione with Jenson and Isla. Hermione is 1/2 sister to Isla and crew - Same mum, different dad. but it should give you an idea of how big your puppy is going to get!

Hermione and Isla

Daisy's Birthday Cake - She was 3 on the 12th of August.

"Woolly". Dad's new Boer Goat Billy. We had the joy of transporting him from his old farm to his new home.

Hermione teaches her sister all about the "pre-wash cycle" after a BBQ.

Isla is a quick learner....

Mum and one of the BBQ guests (John) - quite a view isn't it?

Isla.

Isla again.

A perfect breakfast - outside with my babies

Blackberry season - we've had crumbles, turnovers, pies .... !

The view from the kitchen window.

Flossy and Hermione chasing a ball

Daisy and Isla and a frisbee

Hermione

... You WILL be kissed ...

Isla

Jenson was 5 on the 2nd August, this is his birthday cake

Isla meets bunnies

And found them fascinating

The Tamar Valley from the front garden

Still Naf

2009-08-04T21:27:00.002+01:00

Here are a few pics of Cody.. Time just goes by and getting the time to sit down and do this is just........

He had his last injection today and also chipped. The Vet could not beleive how well he took it, his tail was wagging all the time and when it was time to leave he didn't want to lol ...

His weight now is 15.2, oh my goodness what have we got, she says that his weight is very good for his age and all is well through out...

I did ask the question re his Nuts to be polite, when they could be done and she said 6 months, so Katie could you please advise if you think this should be correct?

Also BIG thing, Mum has Cody when we are at work and the other day he had a chick wing and it got dislodged in his throat, mum said that he was making the utmost terrible noises and he was going crazy just like herself.. In the end she put her fingers down his throat and he brought up what had gone down. My concern now is that mum is so unsure not to give him chicken bones and yet this is waht he really loves and is part of his diet.. Is this normal and to help it happening again or if it does ahat is the BEST way to go about it?

She did do the wings today in the famous Rousso Grinder and he loved that all so. But I/We want him to still have his bones in full as he really enjoys them..

Oh my Goodness I have wrote alot, it's time to get on as you can imagine.

Love to you and all the Rousso Family xxxxxxx

2009-08-04T21:17:00.001+01:00

Ivory Ice (Dennis) Update

2009-08-04T15:09:00.002+01:00

I received this from Theresa yesterday and I'm sure she won't mind me sharing it with you...

Hi Katie,

Sorry have not worked out the Blog yet. Dennis is thriving visitors question is he a Donkey? He is full of fun and when I last had him weighed was over 11lb. Hope you receive attachments, and no he isn't allowed on the sofa! nor take the cushions in the garden, or take the dolls out of the pram, or get in the pram, the list is endless.Just that no one has properly explained to him that this behaviour is not exceptable ! Although he lives up to his nick name Dennis the Menace, he is beautiful, rather attached to me and an absolute joy. He had his first accident indoors the other day, the Conservatory doors were shut, as it was cold, well what do you expect for August ? he wee d on the door mat, well he couldn't get any closer to outside, never had a puppy so clean. Apart from the first 2 nights there have been no accidents in his cage, he has never cried at night..I think you ll have probably guessed were well pleased with him.

Love to you and your family

Theresa and Dennis xx

Proud parents showing off...

2009-07-30T12:21:00.009+01:00

Being gorgeous....

Monty is such a clever boy and seems to really want to learn.

He loved his first training class...

.... but didn't enjoy his first bath very much!

Taking well earned naps after all his mischief!

This is the longest update ever - I think I might have got a bit carried away! We just love Monty so much; he is really sweet and loving and has fitted into our family perfectly. Everyone else's photos are looking great- we hope to be able to catch up with you all at the next Doodle walk... x

Isla Meets A Wolf!

2009-07-30T07:30:00.001+01:00

We went to The Lookout yesterday and just look who we bumped into!

Actually, she's 3/4 Northern Inuit and 1/4 Cezk Wolf Dog

... not just beautiful but brainy too - she's on the Berkshire Search & Rescue Dogs team and they were training there yesterday. One of the girls was extremely taken with Isla and would like a male puppy from the next litter!!!

Spot the doodle....

2009-07-28T23:32:00.002+01:00

Monty Witton hiding from the vacuum cleaner! More pics to follow.... xx

2009-07-26T18:21:00.005+01:00

Its been a very busy couple of weeks so please accept my apologies for not posting more frequently!

I took Iggle Piggle (Troy) to the vets yesterday for his final vaccination. I chose not to have Isla done, but they were both examined by Richard, Isla was officially "put on the books" so to speak and they were both weighed. Troy is now 9.76 kilos, Isla was a slightly more chunky 11.5 kilos.

I decided not to take Troy on the walk as he had only just had his vaccine (10.20am) and the walk was due to start at 11. Here are just some Photos from the walk.

Pepper - Australian Mini - 14 weeks

Monty

Maddie Lloyd - F1 (not one of mine)

Isla

Everyone setting out

Flossy, looking just ravishing, even though I say so myself...

Monty looking devilishly handsome....

Oops - temporary amnesia strikes again - this is Pepper's companion

Jenny Lloyd (Maddie's owner) about to get mugged by Flossy...

Molly (from the first litter)

Pepper and her assistant trainer....

Flossy and Maddie doing Ball Stuff.

Jenson, Daisy and Isla investigate a hole.

Just too cute

and Monty... too cool...

I'm Naff

2009-07-23T22:45:00.002+01:00

I still can't get to grips with this blog thing, Cody will be in his teens before I do lol..

He is coming on leaps and bounds, he's meeting his first girlfriend tomorrow so watch out...

His diet is fantastic, he's having his chicken, pattie's and on occasion we give him raw veg and he just love's his fruit. He loves peaches, bananas and Mollie berries out of mum's garden......

Mistakes in the house are very rare now and he does his business in a particular area in our home and at mum's...

I'm going to perceive with this Blog thing and I will get it right..

Can I just say where is all of Cody's siblings there only seems to be Monty and us on?? Shame!!

Luvs Us xx

2009-07-23T22:38:00.002+01:00

DOODLE SHOW ON SATURDAY 18.7.09

2009-07-20T10:16:00.004+01:00

And off we go . . .

Quick treat here . . .

and here . . .

And we got a PINK 4th rosette! And highest placed doodle puppy too!!

Taken by friends that came with us, they were more in control of themselves I was just too proud to take decent photos . . .

Nosode Question?

2009-07-19T20:40:00.002+01:00

Hi Katie

Have had a complete blank, senior moment! Read the puppy pack and it states that we should dose our puppy once a month for the next six months starting July and ending in December - is that just once a day and just one day in the month or is that twice a day evening and morning for 4 days (26, 27, 28 & 29) as you did in June?

xx

Look who won a prize!!

2009-07-19T16:04:00.002+01:00

Monty and James came 4th in the best puppy class at the Labradoodle Trust Show yesterday, not bad for beginners!! James was a great little handler and even gave the judge a treat to give to Monty which mean't she had his undivided attention which possibly helped!

Oh NO

2009-07-17T19:59:00.001+01:00

I'm still trying and learning just like our Cody, look at the pics backwards and you see the story xx

Cody's 1st Week

2009-07-17T19:45:00.003+01:00

Sister & Brother getting on until??

Cody's 1st Week

2009-07-17T19:38:00.004+01:00

How Handsome I'm I x

Isla, Troy and Daisy at Broomhall Park today

2009-07-17T17:37:00.003+01:00

Troy's Holiday Snaps

2009-07-16T21:36:00.004+01:00

Troy (nee Iggle Piggle) is staying with me while Vanessa attends a family 80th birthday party in Brazil (lucky girl). He was wormed yesterday with Drontal and today we went to the set of Robin Hood - being filmed in Virginia Waters.

Here he is looking very dignified! Remember you can click on the picture to blow it up.

Here he is following Isla - who is an old hand on this walk now!

Look at the size of those paws - he's going to be big...

And finally, on the set - with my very pregnant girlfriend - which gives an indication of the "pace" of this walk!

They've also been to Ryslip Kennels today because I needed a mid-month freezer top-up and they do a good whole minced chicken (everything goes in bar the feathers). This makes a good base for the patty mix. They were hugely admired there and have done about an hour in the van together today.

All grown up!

2009-07-16T17:16:00.003+01:00

Sorry had to put these couple of pictures up. This is what a grown up should look like, only yours won't be black. And Katie take a look at those eyes!!

Monty's progress!

2009-07-16T11:04:00.004+01:00

This picture was taken the day after we picked Monty up and the mat he is laying on is just inside the front door where Molly usually lays so she has moved to the bottom of the stairs, so you can't get outside or go upstairs without standing on a dog!!

Just a quick update to let you know that we are planning on going to the Labradoodle Show on Saturday weather permitting.

Monty is going great guns now, can't get his food down quick enough, can't run around winding Molly up quick enough, and has had his first training lesson and couldn't do enough quick enough if there was a treat at the end of it! James took his lesson and homework this week is to practice 'sit', 'down' and 'stand' with or without commands and 'wait' with a command. Both the dogs will 'wait' for their food now and Monty will sit on command but his down and stand still needs work but James is doing these every morning before school!

1st Vet Visit

2009-07-14T18:35:00.002+01:00

Mum, Mollie and Me took Cody to the vets today to get him checked over. The Vet took one look and fell in love with him, she checked his heart and said it was very healthy, checked his eyes & ears all good there and then he was weighed, he now weighs 10K. Oh what a BIG boy we have.
We have all seen a difference in him already and he has not been with us a week yet.
For the last two nights now he has gone to sleep with making no sound, he is just the BEST thing ever. He's having a nap at the moment and Mark is outside sanding the garden furniture WOW.

Love the Rousso's

Monty Witton's first few days...

2009-07-13T21:39:00.005+01:00

Saying goodbye to Katie....

The boys playing football.

With his favourite toy, Padraig the duck.

He is so gorgeous!

And so handsome!

We are completely besotted with Monty, who has been a little angel since he arrived; he is a real credit to Katie and all the work that she has put in. So far, he seems to have settled really well in his new home and loves his toys lots... and we just can't stop cuddling him!

2009-07-13T18:28:00.002+01:00

The first ever SOUTHERN LABRADOODLE TRUST SHOW is this coming SATURDAY 18TH JULY 2009 at New Forest Showground, New Park, Brockenhurst, Hampshire.

This is a 'fun dog show' and ALL dogs are welcome to enter, but there are special doodle classes just for us and a Best Doodle in Show award too!

We're having;

Ice Cream
Rosettes in every class
Agility Display
Lots of Fun Classes
Obedience Display
Stalls
Heelwork to Music Display
Food
and lots of lovely prizes!!!

Further information is available at www.labradoodletrust.com or by email from fundraising.south@labradoodletrust.com. Entries into the various classes can be made on the day. Show opens at 11am.

We look forward to meeting you and your dogs!!!

Unfortunately I can't attend - its my son's 1st School Fete and I'll be taken out and shot at dawn if I don't go...  Which is a real bummer - this looks really good.

Isla Update

2009-07-13T17:08:00.007+01:00

We walked at Virginia Waters from Blacknest Gate this afternoon.

I found a large stump which will be perfect for doing Isla's monthly photo on right by the gate.

Then we met a couple of whippets with very friendly owners.

Isla tried to catch up with Flossy, but soon gave it up!

Isla loves Daisy and vice versa. They're rapidly becoming inseparable.

Another good tree stump to do the photos on.

Robin Hood is being filmed on the lake this week and because it was lunchtime we were able to walk right through the set!

Isla is going to be kind of surprised next week when they've all gone isn't she?

Seeing the "behind the scenes" stuff - like the runner's jeep, the peasants eating fish and chips and bin bags full of rubbish kind of killed the magic!

But the extras all fell in love with Isla. We managed to tick-off so many "people" on our socialisation walk ... Old Men, Young Men, Beards, Old Ladies, Odd Gaits, you name it they were there! What a FAB walk - I guess we'll just have to go back tomorrow !!

Health Issues

Just a reminder - Isla's nails needed cutting this afternoon, also, after this walk she needed a bath - that black mud by the bank of the lake is really stinky. I should think all the puppies have settled in well enough by now so do go ahead and bath the pup if you want to. Remember to shampoo from tail to ears and rinse from ears to tail; use a very mild baby shampoo (Johnsons Baby Bedtime Bath works well for me) and use your hairdryer on the cool setting. Sudsy photos are always cute!

2009-07-12T13:03:00.005+01:00

'Is she this way!'

'Where's she gone!'

I am sitting in front of them both with treat in hand and calling them both and this is what happens!!

I think we have more or less cracked it! Monty is sleeping like a baby through the night, sleeps a lot of the day and has two quite long walks as he likes to follow Molly and us around.

Went for his first puppy romp yesterday, he followed us around the field and had a couple of rough and tumbles but was more interested in where we were than his four legged friends, we are going to go again next saturday to see if he is a little more interested as he did enjoy himself. Then in the afternoon John took James and a friend to the cinema to see Ice Age 3 in 3d and a friend and I walked Monty and Molly on her usual walk which we did slowly and got soaked and then he completely flaked out for the rest of the evening! He pee's more or less on comand 'busy' now and we have got into the rhythum of taking him out every 1.5 or 2 hours for a toilet break. He also goes in the garden before and after a walk . . . . 1 week on and he is a dream.

Cheapside Village Fete

2009-07-12T06:43:00.004+01:00

Hi guys

Well - it feels like we've got our new puppy too today! With everyone safely off to their new forever homes, Isla is at last an "only" dog.

We went to Cheapside Village Fete yesterday - held in the Hall opposite our house and the fields behind. It was, despite the somewhat dismal weather, a wonderful event and a good time was had by all.

Isla was hugely admired by everyone.

Daisy had to show her where the swings are in the park

There was a tug of war for the kids

Which was won by the girls, naturally ;-)
And this is Daisy at the end of the day - those shorts were pink once, honestly!!!

I really missed Susan Owen today - she loved this event.

Posting Multiple Pictures

When you make a new post, there are little icons at the top of the "compose" window. The add a new picture icon is 3rd from the right - a tiny picture of a land-scape. When you click that a new window opens inviting you to Add a picture from your Computer or Add a picture from the Web. Immediately under the Add a Picture From Your Computer, there is a browse button so you can find the stuff on your local computer. Just above this (and I missed it too at first) is a little link called "add another image". If you click that, you'll get up to 5 "browse" buttons so you can upload up to 5 pics at a time.

Irritatingly each picture goes to the very top of your blog so if you want to tell a story with your photos, you have to enter the last one first, etc, etc, or - as I am now doing, get quite good with the "Control-X" and "Control-V" buttons to cut and past the photos into the text.

I'm loving the new posts - its made it exciting for me to log on too now! Looking forward to seeing more and more of them over the next couple of months!

Doodle and Poodle Walk - Saturday 25th July, 11am

I'm having a Doodle and Poodle walk at Virginia Waters on Saturday 11th July, 11am. There will be a short 20 minute loop for the puppies, then a longer, 1 hour loop for the older dogs. We meet at the top end of the carpark on the A30 in Virginia Waters, opposite the Total Garage and Adjacent to The Wheatsheaf pub. Please email me if you would like to attend.

Cody

2009-07-11T22:54:00.002+01:00

Well I did it with a little help from the OLD man, I say OLD cos we have a little man in the house now lol
Didn't know how to do caption for each one as sent altogether?
There are 2 pics of Cody having his meaty bone all to himself, didn't finish as he hasn't got his bros and sis's wih him... the other shows him using his wee bed as a sleep area? Katie WHY won't he use it? We have had a few accidents in the house but if I put him near it to do that business he would prefer to chew it?
But apart from that WE must say that Cody has been the utmost BEST ickle/huge thing ever.
Oh and WE would recommend the BARF patties to everyone as Cody lapped them up.. we are doing your liver one's tomorrow... but you know Mark he had to try his bone grinder out.....
Will keep you posted on his progress when I get time, It really feels like a new born has arrived, in fact it's more lol lol
PS he just with us now rolling on too his back while he sleeping aah x x x

Loves us xxx

Cody

2009-07-11T22:31:00.005+01:00

2009-07-11T16:00:00.001+01:00

Cody's first steps inside his new home, he did turn around and try to do a runner lol

Cody

2009-07-10T16:36:00.002+01:00

Hi Katie
I'm on with little help from him but will need it for photos.
Cody's first day has been different for us all. He has been introduced to mum's cat Poppy and poppy out stared Cody, mum thought it was very funny, we left him there as we both forgot it was Mollie's assembly at school this morning. When we got back he was all over us which was lovely to see.
He's had rabbit today and enjoyed every mouth full, as you know there's more of that to come.
Mark was at mum's (testing out his new grinder making Barf patties and he says the machine was out of this world, mum's eyes popping out of her head by the wonder of the thing, did the bones too) while I was at home with Cody and Mollie needed picking up so I had to put him in his crate and leave him, the guilt was enormous but I was only away for 30mins, I got lots of kisses when we got back.
When I get to grips I'll send the photo's of his arrival yesterday.
Thanks so far for all your help and wonderful information.
Love The Rousso's

2009-07-09T14:18:00.001+01:00

Oh sorry, forgot to ask, can you post your receipe for 'LIVER CAKE'. I have a receipe from the dog training people but I think it is lacking in a few ingredients. I may bite the bullet open the doors and windows and go for it!!
Jayne
x

2009-07-09T13:57:00.003+01:00

Hi Katie

Things are much better now!! Monty slept from midnight when John went to work until 6.30am this morning when I let them both out before putting them back in crates so I could shower, and they were both quiet.

I walked Monty to school with James and then we had a play on the green with a rather nice black labrador who was up for a little game.

I bought some large meaty bones yesterday and when I went to work gave them both one each for there crates, Monty went in on his own ok and started to go at the bone until I left when according to John he barked then stopped for half an hour and then barked until John let him outside. Luckily John isn't at work now until Sunday so we have chance to work on the daytime.

Yesterday every time he flaked out I picked him up and put him in the crate and he quite happily crashed out in there until we leave the home, he sensed that you've left and gets upset about it, when you go back in he stops and goes back to sleep?

Now we are letting him out more often he has started peeing before Molly and we have not had so many accidents!! I think he deserves a medal myself, he hasn't been home with us a week yet. We have booked a puppy romp on Saturday morning 10am so let's see how he likes that . . .

Jayne
x

2009-07-08T08:20:00.003+01:00

Hi Katie

Not long now before we pick the monster (Big) up he he, I'm saying this as looking at your blog I'm seeing his sisters and brothers lol lol.... They've been "exploding" around the garden this morning already - and thank god I got them out early, its pouring again now....

I have bought some Thuja like you said and I was unsure so I bought 2 lots??? I'm hoping that when we see you on Thursday you can advise on when to give.. Cody has been booked in for his first vaccination a week after he arrives, I phoned the vet that my mum uses and they said to give him at least a week to settle in before taking him.. With this in mind we do know that you said in the contract that he would have to be seen within 5 days, if so do you suggest that we make an appointment before the day that we are to take him?? You'll probably only need one lot of Thuja - but its good to have the extra - keep it cool and dark and away from smells and it will be good for years, so you can use it before and after Mollie's vaccines too. Your vets sound great - but DO TAKE HIM IN IMMEDIATELY to get him checked over by your vet. DON'T get him vaccinated on that visit - make a second appointment for that.

Also the vet said something about changing Insurance Plans and that it could affect, so we plan on going with Pet Plan, will they write to us or should we do it ourselves??? I'm setting it up for you this morning. They will write to you with your policy and all you have to do is accept it. You get four weeks free with Petplan which gives you time to set up the DD - don't worry, they'll post everything to you.

All is ready here for him, we have ordered 5lb of chicken wings from our great butcher and Mark believe it or not has got us a bone crusher off E bay ( he said he wanted to do it and by Joe he has lol )... WOW! Can you email me the link so I can see what he got? I could use one of them!

I have been keeping myself up to date with all on the Blog and folk are asking great questions and I'm, We are taking it all in. I'm sure when Cody comes to his new home I will be there also asking this that and the other. No Doubt about that!!! LOL!!!

We are leaving Yorkshire between 8.30 to 9am so hopefully should be with you (traffic permitting) about noon time, I hope this is ok... Absolutely fine!

With luv from the Rousso's XXX K

PS: Jayne - can you call me? My email's not working!

2009-07-07T12:59:00.002+01:00

Does anyone have any ideas on how to stop Monty (west) from barking when in his crate during the day? He is ok at night now, but John was working from midnight until 7.30am this morning and when I left for work John was in bed, I put Molly and Monty into their crates put the radio on low (company) and gave Molly a bone and Monty a stuffed kong and quietly left. He barked from the time I left at 8.30am until John finally had to get up at 10.15am!!
Help please!!

2009-07-06T08:13:00.003+01:00

Monty's (Indy's) first - of many - visits to a pub!

2009-07-04T17:10:00.010+01:00

Everyone loved Monty at the pub and he enjoyed all the fuss very much! He was a little nervous initially but, after having his tummy tickled, he was soon flat on his back, napping in the sunshine.

2009-07-03T18:43:00.002+01:00

Brilliant photos even if only off the phone. I will try to download ours soon.

Thank you for a lovely day and Monty has just met his new next door neighbours, Jack who is 5, Izzy who is 3, and their parents Adrian and Niaomi, who all think he is the lovelest, hughest puppy ever.

Jayne

2009-07-03T18:38:00.001+01:00

Hi Katie

First message just to see it works!!

2009-07-03T14:39:00.003+01:00

Day 62 - Isla & Monty's first walk

Monty went home with Jayne today and to ensure that she had a nice quiet drive home (fingers crossed anyway) we went for a very short (first!!!) walk at Virginia Waters.

Neither Jayne nor I vaccinate with conventional vaccines - but our puppies have had a course of homeopathic nosodes to cover them for Leptospirosis, Hepetitis, Distemper and Parvo.

Because the puppies are very young they will follow us everywhere, tripping us up almost in an attempt to stay close. THIS IS THE TIME TO START OFF LEAD stuff. Pleeeeeeeeeease don't wait until your puppy is 14+ weeks old!

We thought it might rain, so I didn't take the big camera. These pics are all taken on my mobile (hence the lack of quality)

Isla and Daisy

Monty, Isla and Molly with Jayne and John

We met Jo on our walk with her three JRT's and her English Pointer.

Monty meets "short stop" (Candy)

Flossy was completely unperturbed by the addition of two of her puppies on our walk and continued to zoom about as per normal.

Isla receiving liver cake for staying by my left leg (heelwork)

which obviously worked - she was glued to me for the next few minutes!....

Her brother cottoned on to this easy way of earning treats rather rapidly too!

Isla's first "sit" outside of our home environment.

2009-07-02T16:35:00.001+01:00

If you are still looking for a puppy, please do take a look at the TrentisHoe Labradoodles site.

2009-07-02T15:05:00.002+01:00

Another very relevant question!

"Hi Katie

Sorry but I have completely forgotten what I fed Molly when we first brought her home.

I believe you are feeding the puppies 4 times a day, I remember that bit . . .

Could you email back a typical days food that you would feed Isla so I can keep it going until Monty is the size of the house and can swipe Molly’s food.

Sorry and thanks – I need to go shopping tonight and not sure what to get . . .

Could you email the list to home too, so what I can’t get tonight I can get on Saturday."

OK here goes!

I am deliberately NOT feeding the puppies at set times, so you can all have them adjust to your own timetables when they get to your home. So all times are very approximate.

Between 6am and 8am - 120 to 150g of chicken carcass
Between 11 and 12.30ish - 120 to 150g of chicken wings
between 3 and 5pmish - patty containing veg, meat, yogurt, egg, oil, offal, supplements, etc.
Between 7 and 9pmish - meaty bones - lamb, beef etc.

Next day might well see same food but in different order! Depends on what has been defrosted!! Puppies are coping with semi-defrosted wings very well now.

Hope this helps - if you need clarification just drop me an email.

2009-07-01T17:27:00.002+01:00

Ikofo Ice Cream on Tuesday morning in the arms of Rachel who is my work experience student.

And having his last cuddle with me.

Because Fred (DFTD Volunteer) had come to pick him up to take him to his socialiser.

He went quietly into the crate...

and off into the sunshine to start his new career with Dogs for the Disabled. I'll update the blog with his progress reports as and when I get them. (All we know right now is that he arrived safely and settled quickly).

2009-07-01T16:46:00.007+01:00

Our Visit to Jenson's School

On Monday all the puppies (minus Iggle Piggle who has gone to his new home) went to Jenson's School for "Show and Tell"

The children really enjoyed the visit

and the puppies really enjoyed the children.

Back home again and after a brief snooze

Fiona Hamilton Andrews dropped in for a visit.

Puppies in the van - still not had time to clear it out.

2009-06-26T20:55:00.005+01:00

I received this email from Tim (Tim Hosken MRCVS, Senior Partner, Alma Road Veterinary Hospital - Windsor) today:

"Dear Katie, if you are using homoeopathic nosodes there is no risk of shedding or interference with vaccination although they could cause an aggravation just like any remedy. Doesn't matter if you give them to one or all pups, ... Tim x"

... so, all pups started their course this evening. The course is one dose night and morning for three days then one dose a month for six months.

According to George Macleod (MRCVS, DVSM, Vet. FF Hom) in his book A veterinary Materia Medica and Clinical Repertory "... This provides a good level of protection after the first week which is subsequently re-inforced over the next few months."

So by his reckoning, the puppies should be adequately covered by next Friday.

2009-06-25T22:12:00.006+01:00

Some really GREAT questions have just been posted to me and since all of you will probably come up with the same or similar ones, I'm sure the original poster won't mind me answering them here:

How should we keep him safe when travelling in the car once he is older? We have a box ready to collect him in but have been looking at the options for when he is a big boy and are not sure what to get as there seem to be a big range of harnesses and crates. I've always opted for a crate in the car. I've not used car harnesses, but those people who have are happy with them. However - a crate prevents the puppy from chewing up your car and a harness doesn't.
How often should we bath / nail clip / comb? (info online is all contradictory!) You bath when they're smelly, brush every day, comb right down to skin at least every week. Nails need clipping when you can hear your dog coming on a hard floor.
How often should he have his fur cut? (as above!) Very much depends on the coat. I clipped Hemione just once when it was really hot in her 2nd summer, but wouldn't bother to do it again. Most of this litter won't need clipping at all, ever.
Is it better to leave him loose in the kitchen or in his crate when we are out? Initially definately in the crate with the door closed. Preferably with something to do (like unstuff a kong). Your puppy shouldn't have to have the responsiblity of guarding the whole house when you're out - the crate is their security. Also, a puppy in a crate can't chew through cables etc - which might just kill him.
Could you recommend some smelly stuff to put on chair legs to stop him chewing? A liberal spray of Surgical Spirit ususally does the trick here... which reminds me, I'll be needing some too.
Are there particular homeopathic remedies you would recommend we bought? I have the homeopathic first aid kit from Helios - comes with a handy booklet and the remedies work just as well for the four legged kids as they do for the two legged ones!
Are you against micro-chipping? No, all my dogs are done. And the Cats. BUT, don't rely on that to get your dog returned to you - it still MUST wear a collar in public with a tag with some ID on it. I break the law every time I take my dogs out as their tags just have Canine Film Academy on one side and my MOBILE telephone number on the other. I figured if any of them ever did go missing they'd I'd be out looking for them and wouldn't want to miss the call...
Do Pet Plan still refuse to insure non vaccinated dogs? If so, could you recommend an insurer who will accept him? I need to check this for you (or perhaps someone else could make a call and let me know?) As far as I'm aware they will cover EVERYTHING EXCEPT the diseases you could have vaccinated for.
Should we use Verm-X to worm him in 19 days, or use the other brands you mentioned for the next two treatments? (I wasn’t quite clear from your blog.) Once he has been done in nineteen days and then again in nineteen days, how often should we worm him? They've had two of the three doses they need, one Milbemax (wouldn't go there again), one Panacure and the next and last one I'll be giving Isla will most probably be Droncit. After that she'll get a monthly dose of Verm-X just like the other dogs.
Do you use any form of flea treatment? If so, could you recommend some? Yes, certainly. Garlic. I use lazy garlic or garlic puree (bought in tubes for cooking) and I add it to their patty meal. If you sniff your dog's feet and you can't smell garlic (its the only place a dog can sweat) then you're not giving enough. Garlic repels fleas and ticks.
Are there particular areas or situations we should avoid until he is 16 weeks? You've chosen the non vaccination route, so you'll want to be carrying your puppy into your local parks. I carry them until I'm well past the "infected" areas - ie where every dog has relieved itself when it enters the park. When the puppy is so big I can't carry her that far, I figure she's old enough to cope - and I've not been wrong so far. I give one dose of the nosodes every three days until she stops testing for it. I can help you with this, but you've got an expert on hand in the family who is much more qualified in this field (for everyone whose totally mystified by all this, go and look up kinesiology surrogate muscle testing) than I am so do go on his advice. Places to avoid: (until they're about 14 -16 weeks) Dog Shows, any heavily used park that's small. Take him to the pub instead - you'll all have more fun! And on that note, I'm off to bed before I fall over.

2009-06-25T10:51:00.004+01:00

Oops - I've been a bit dim.

On Sunday 28th (This Sunday) I'm the official photographer at the Cranbourne Annual Companion Dog Show - so I'm afraid I won't be here. Steve is going to have to cope with both kids and 8 puppies (welcome to my world!!) LOLOLOL. This is a SERIOUSLY good day out for dog lovers and well worth a visit if you can get there (its held in Warfield, near Bracknell, Berkshire) T: 01344 883955 for further info and directions.

If you would like to visit on Saturday 27th I'm free after 11.30am, I'd love to see you but please ring me to let me know what time you're coming!

Iggle Piggle (Troy) is the first puppy to go and he's leaving at 10.30. Waterproof mascara has been bought in anticipation...

As the puppies start to leave I'm handing this blog over to you and setting you all up as authors so that each Barleors puppy owner (past and present) can post on it. That way we'll all get to keep in touch with each other and see what the other puppies / dogs are up to. If you've not yet received an invite to become an author on this blog and you would like to do so, please drop me an email: katie@barleors-labradoodles.co.uk and I'll add you to the list.

2009-06-24T14:26:00.012+01:00

Day 53

Iggle Piggle (Troy) and Isla went for a jaunt today. We went to visit Vanessa's house so I could cast my beady eye over her fencing and see if she'd missed anything while puppy proofing her home. (Which she hadn't).

Troy and Isla arriving in the crate in the back of my van. This picture prompted me to come straight home and CLEAN IT!!!

After investigating the kitchen

both puppies came outside

where they had a wonderful romp on the lawn

Which is absolutely immaculate (like the rest of the house)

... and I discovered that I had secretly bred a labradonkey!

A very happy Troy in his new garden with his new mummy, Vanessa.

Troy doesn't actually leave here until Saturday, so he and Isla came back home and have slept like logs ever since!

I've wormed them all today with Panacur. So they'll need worming again in 19 days and again 19 days after that to be sure that they are 100% clear. As I'm using a commercial veterinary prescribed wormer (which I loathe, but have to use to be Labradoodle Association CoP Compliant) I use a different preparation every time I worm to be sure that I'm clearing out all of the little buggers - not leaving the Milbemax-resistant or Panacur-resistant or Droncit-resistant ones behind to recolonise the dog. However, at the end of this course - I would very strongly recommend that you take a look at Verm-X for your dogs and get your order in now! I use the liquid because I've got quite a few dogs and it works out more economical that way... but if I had just one puppy I'd buy the treats instead.

The puppies have been cut down to 4 meals a day. Three of the meals are "bone" meals, the 4th being the meal containing all their supplements, offal, etc. I feed somewhere between 6 and 8 in the morning, 2nd feed somewhere between 11 and 1, 3rd feed between 3 and 5 and the last feed between 7 and 9pm. I am DELIBERATELY NOT feeding at the same time each day. I don't want these puppies stressing out because its 5pm and there's no tea on the table!

Vanessa was asking about toys - a bored puppy rapidly becomes a destructive puppy and they can do phenominal amounts of damage to the garden in a few short hours (very long and tedious to the pup though). So do have a look at Kongs and how to stuff them - this is a good way to feed the "patty" meal. And remember, you can also freeze them to make them last longer. A well stuffed Kong (or similar) could buy you several hours of totally contented puppy!

2009-06-23T17:22:00.003+01:00

Day 52 - Puppy Testing Day...

As close to Day 49 as is possible, I use Jack and Wendy Volhard's Temperament Test to check that each puppy is suited to the home that it is allocated to.

Tester: Sheila Hamilton Andrews (MSc)
Scorer: Lesley Goldstein

... and the scores were ...

Red Neck / Amarelo Indy (Monty) Average Score: 2.8
Red Shoulder / Ivory Ice (Dennis) Average Score: 3.7
Green Middle / Ikofo Ice Cream (DFTD) Average Score: 4.2
Green Hip / Iggle Piggle (Troy) Average Score: 2.4
Silver Neck / Isobel (Isobel) Average Score: 2.6
Green Shoulder / Indian Imp (Monty) Average Score: 2.7
Red Middle / Golden Ingot (Cody) Average Score: 3.3
Silver Middle / Isla Sky (Isla) Average Score: 2

Interpreting the Scores

Mostly 1's A puppy that consistently scores a 1 in the temperament section of the test is an extremely dominant, aggressive puppy who can easily be provoked to bite. His dominant nature will attempt to resist human leadership, thus requiring only the most experienced of handlers. This puppy is a poor choice for most individuals and will do best in a working situation as a guard or police dog.
Mostly 2's This pup is dominant and self-assured. He can be provoked to bite; however he readily accepts human leadership that is firm, consistent and knowledgeable. This is not a dog for a tentative, indecisive individual. In the right hands, he has the potential to become a fine working or show dog and could fit into an adult household, provided the owners know what they are doing.

Mostly 3's This pup is outgoing and friendly and will adjust well in situations in which he receives regular training and exercise. He has a flexible temperament that adapts well to different types of environment, provided he is handled correctly. May be too much dog for a family with small children or an elderly couple who are sedentary.

Mostly 4's A pup that scores a majority of 4's is an easily controlled, adaptable puppy whose submissive nature will make him continually look to his master for leadership. This pup is easy to train, reliable with kids, and, though he lacks self-confidence, makes a high-quality family pet. He is usually less outgoing than a pup scoring in the 3's, but his demeanor is gentle and affectionate.

Mostly 5's This is a pup who is extremely submissive and lacking in self-confidence. He bonds very closely with his owner and requires regular companionship and encouragement to bring him out of himself. If handled incorrectly, this pup will grow up very shy and fearful. For this reason, he will do best in a predictable, structured lifestyle with owners who are patient and not overly demanding, such as an elderly couple.

Mostly 6's A puppy that scores 6 consistently is independent and uninterested in people. He will mature into a dog who is not demonstrably affectionate and who has a low need for human companionship. In general, it is rare to see properly socialized pups test this way; however there are several breeds that have been bred for specific tasks (such as basenjis, hounds, and some northern breeds) which can exhibit this level of independence. To perform as intended, these dogs require a singularity of purpose that is not compromised by strong attachments to their owner.

Vaccinations?

If you are NOT intending to follow the conventional vaccination route would you be kind enough to drop me an e-mail ASAP? The puppies are due for their first dose of homeopathic nosodes now - so its make your mind up time!

2009-06-22T22:03:00.000+01:00

Ikofo's turn to visit Cheapside School today - here he is with Sue, the Bursar.

2009-06-21T18:56:00.007+01:00

Week 7 Rogues Gallery

We had a very busy day yesterday - Mat and Leah, Jen and Mat, James, John and Jayne all came to play with their puppies. And boy, was I grateful for the help! Jayne and I managed to weigh each puppy and do their nails and with John passing the puppies out of their pen it made light work of an otherwise time consuming affair!

This week's photography was also very much a Group Effort. Again though, huge thanks must go to Jayne as she did the bulk of chasing puppies around the garden and luring them with liver cake into various positions, which she achieved with some success, as you will see.

But first...

This picture is especially for Susan - who wanted to see more of her two legged kids in the photos! Daisy was exceptionally "helpful" yesterday, and here she is "rearranging" Isla (under careful supervision of course!). She's going to make a VERY useful little trainer/handler in a year or two's time...

Ice (Dennis) weighed in at 5 Kilos.

Ikofo (Dogs For The Disabled) 6.5 Kilos

Isobel (Isobel) 5 Kilos

Isla (Isla) 5.5 Kilos

Ingot (Cody) 7 Kilos (Hayley - we rechecked, twice).

Indy (Monty) 6 Kilos

Imp (Monty) 6.5 Kilos (this is going to be fun on our group walks - two "Montys")

... and finally ... Imp (Monty) and his half sister (and new companion) Molly...

2009-06-17T14:45:00.005+01:00

Day 46

What a BUSY day!

All eight puppies had a full bath and blow dry this morning.

Here is Ikofo (Dogs for the Disabled) enjoying his turn. Every puppy had its nails done with the big-boy's guillotine clippers today too.

I had to drop a cake off at the PTA Royal Procession Tent at 10.30am, so I put Ikofo in the van for his first ride...

... with his mum, Flossy.

Prince Charles noticed Flossy during the Royal Procession in Watersplash Lane. That many horses clattering past is very noisy - too much for the puppies I think. I'll get knowls to bring her horse over - one at a time will be better to start with...

The Queen also noticed Flossy!

Iggle Piggle was carried down to school to pick up Jenson this afternoon. Here he is in the arms of Jenson's teacher, being admired by children and their parents. The kids are also very noisy, but the puppies are already very used to that sort of noise!!!

Steve was working from home again today so the puppies were treated to a Router, industrial vacuum cleaner, an electric plane and power drills. They're utterly BOMB proof now...

2009-06-16T16:24:00.004+01:00

Day 45

Today was the first day of Royal Ascot so from 10am this morning til 2pm we've had a swarm of helicopters just about skimming the trees above our garden. As this didn't seem to phase the puppies at all, we also started habituation to power tools and as you can see from the video above, none of the puppies seem too bothered by circular saws or sanding machines. So, no excuses when you get your new puppy home... You CAN still do the DIY!

I carried Isla down to Jenson's school to pick him up and Golden Ingot (Cody) was carried up the road to the post box to post Hayley and Mark's BARF Diet book to them. He also went into the hairdressers where he was hugely admired by several clients.

2009-06-15T08:18:00.002+01:00

2009-06-14T10:46:00.004+01:00

Puppies, like toddlers, just CRASH when they're done playing - in the funniest positions sometimes.

Sheila Hamilton Andrews visited yesterday. She will be one of the puppy testers when the puppies have their Temperament Test. Sheila is the Chairman of the UK Registry of Canine Behaviourists (UKRCB), a professional body of canine behavioural therapists with members practicing throughout Great Britain and a select number of international members. Membership is open to practising canine behavioural advisors who meet the criteria and high standards set by the UKRCB.

So cute it deserved a second photograph!

Vanessa and Iggle Piggle, with Archie in the background. Archie is one of the 2007 puppies and he came to visit his half brothers and sisters yesterday too. (It was quite a full house!)

Archie in our back garden yesterday.

2009-06-14T10:24:00.008+01:00

Rogues Gallery, Week 6

This week was a bit of a challenge and once again I have to thank Jayne and her family for helping me to photograph what can only be described as Exocet Missiles this week.

The puppies continue to grow and thrive - everyone had put on at least 700 grams at this week's weigh in and one little piggy had put on 900!

I started clicker training the puppies last night. They have to be brought into the house one at a time to do this. If the remaining puppies can hear the clicker they go mental!!! I'm just luring sits and downs. I'll try and film one of the sessions today and put it up here tomorrow.

Jen and Matt's Puppy

Our puppy

Mark and Hayley's Puppy

Leah and Matt's Puppy

Jayne, John and James's Puppy

This Puppy has been donated to Dogs For The Disabled

Vanessa Dib's Puppy

??? May have news later today about Ice... (watch this space!)

2009-06-11T16:22:00.007+01:00

Barleors Puppy Owners Shopping List

I have ordered The Barf Diet for the new Puppy Owners already, with a bit of luck it will be here by the weekend so everyone who is visiting will be able to pick it up. I'll post copies on to those that can't be here so you've all got a good headstart on what you'll need to buy in for your puppies diets.

With regards to vaccination and general health, you really should all read Shock to the System by Catherine O'Driscoll.

For those wanting more in depth info on both the above subjects, you'll need my bible: The Holistic Guide for a Healthy Dog by Jack and Wendy Volhard.

The best all round training book I can find (books are easier than DVDs in my opinion) is written by my good friend Carolyn Menteith; The Haynes Dog Manual Its not too heavy going and has bags of really good sensible advice and excellent photography. Some of the subjects might even look a wee bit familiar!!

For crates, look no further than Dog Health / Stock Nutrition on ebay. Hermione's crate is 28"x42", with a divider in it which for the extra fiver was well worth the money. Beware of imitations and cheap crates - they don't last... believe me, I've tried them all and this guy provides great value for money. I see he also now does Car Crates - so look at his models/prices before going directly to Barjo Engineering (who are, without a doubt the Rolls Royce of Bespoke Car Crates).

With regards to house training, I've been very VERY successful using the Sanvic Puppy Trainer Starter Kit. The best price by miles was to be found at Canine Concepts. Your puppy is used to the large size (60cm x 45cm).

For your clicker training equipment look no further than Training Lines. I've used them for years and they always have the most up to date stuff at good prices.

I'm now being picked to death by the kids, Steve and dogs - really can't concentrate on this any more now ... the shopping list is NOT yet complete but this should keep you going!

2009-06-11T09:04:00.000+01:00

I've just GOT to brag about this ... this is the puppy pen at 6am this morning, just after the pups had gone outside. Lots of wee, but for the 5th DAY RUNNING, no poo!

2009-06-10T22:00:00.003+01:00

As we get closer to the time when the puppies will be ready to go to their new homes, I'd like to remind everyone who has purchased a puppy that I need to have an article of clothing (usually a teeshirt) that you have impregnated with your scent. The easiest way of doing this is to wear the teeshirt in bed, have the kiddies sleep on it too ... then send it to me or bring it over on your next visit.

These teeshirts will be secured to the fencing on the the puppies day-pen so that they can all be come utterly familiar with your scent. On the day that you take your little bundle home, the same teeshirt will become the puppy's "comforter", as it will now be (heavily) impregnated with the smells of its litter mates. Please, don't choose something you'd ever like to wear again, and if its distinctive in colour or pattern, so much the better - loads of un-named white teeshirts can be difficult to identify once the puppies have had their way with them!

If you would like a DVD of all the photos I have taken (Hayley!!) since the puppies were born, just let me know and I'll include it in your puppy pack.

Finally, Isobel now has a new family to go to; Ice and Iggle Piggle have interested parties who will be letting me know their decisions tomorrow morning.

2009-06-08T19:50:00.000+01:00

Day 37

Rob Harris from Dogs for the Disabled came over today and this is the puppy he picked - Barleors Ikofo Ice Cream is his chosen puppy and he will be leaving us on the 30th June to start his socialisation programme.

2009-06-07T20:12:00.009+01:00

The Rogues Gallery for Week 5

Special thanks to Jayne West who handled all the puppies for me today - it really IS a two man job now!

2009-06-06T17:29:00.018+01:00

Day 35

I can't believe the puppies are already 5 weeks old - where has the time gone? Today Mat and Leah came to visit their puppy (Indy). So I got caught in the photography - here I am with Iggle Piggle.

Ice, just looking cute ... He's such a special boy.

Two extra pairs of hands made the weekly joby of weighing the puppies a synch today - they've outgrown the kitchen scales so now they are "bagged" and weighed with a Baby Weigher.

Today's weights, in order of birth: Indy 3900g, Ice 3600g, Ikofo 4100g, Iggle Piggle 3400g, Isobel 3500g, Imp 4100g, Ingot 4050g, Isla 4100g. They were between 520g and 409g at birth so they've grown ... a lot!

I feed 4 times a day and Flossy is matching me feed for feed. She doesn't lie down to do it any more ... there simply wouldn't be enough room. The puppies swarm over as soon as they see her and the entire feed now only takes about ten minutes.

I'm providing two "milk" meals and two "bone" meals. Indy is munching his way through a mutton cutlet. They aren't consuming the bones yet, but when they've finished with them there is precious little meat left on.

To provide 8 puppies with food simultaneously I use a Weanafeeder. This clever device carries six bowls at a time (like the old fashioned milk bottle holder). Its made of a really easy wipe-clean plastic so its hygenic too. I can't recommend them highly enough.

Like any kids, immediately after dinner they just HAVE to let off some steam!

Isobel gets sleepy...

So does Golden Ingot...

and Imp and Indy snuggle up for a snooze.

2009-06-02T13:43:00.014+01:00

Day 31 - Vet Check!

Although I like to do everything I can as holistically as I can, there are times that judicious use of chemicals can produce more benefits than harm. I believe that the initial course of worming is one of them. Although Flossy was wormed every 19 days before mating to clear her system out completely, then again in the middle of her pregnancy because of the rabbit affair, there was still a risk of worm larvae migrating through the placenta into the puppies before they were born or through the mammary glands into the milk afterwards.

So today all the puppies have been given a dose of Milbemax.

Milbemax

Tim Hosken from Alma Road Veterinary Hospital came over to check all the puppies today. The examination covers ears, eyes, mouth, basic structure, hip development and he listens to the heart. Iggle Piggle clearly enjoyed the fuss...

Isla is having her mouth checked.

Ice passes the heart test (well, whose heart wouldn't melt just looking at him eh??)

Indy thought the whole process was VERY boring.

Ingot passed all his tests with flying colours....

Ikofo having his ears checked

Imp enjoys the "cuddle"

and Isobel is FAR more interested in what the kids left on the table after last night's tea..

2009-05-30T17:38:00.013+01:00

The Week 4 Photo Call!

Iggle Piggle - not yet spoken for (??? Dogs for the Disabled ???) An active, inquisitive puppy that likes lots of stimulation.

Golden Ingot - Hayley, Mollie and Mark's Puppy

Isla Skye - the puppy we're keeping

Ikofo Ice Cream - not yet spoken for - again, a candidate perhaps for Dogs for the Disabled. Ikofo is a bold puppy with lots of go!

Lady Isobel - not yet spoken for, sweet natured and very into her cuddles...

Ivory Ice - not yet spoken for and for the life of me I can't see why, he's SO handsome and very laid back - perhaps its because he's always asleep when people come to view?

Amarelo Indy - Leah and Mat, Carole and Barry's Puppy

Indian Imp - Jayne, James and John's Puppy

2009-05-28T21:13:00.006+01:00

Isobel discovers one method of keeping everyone else off "her" food!

Socialisation is very important.

Puppies playing outside today...

Two more puppies have found fabulous new homes this week. Mark and Hayley have earmarked Golden Ingot (Red Middle) whilst Mat and Leah have sucumbed to the charms of Amarelo Indy (Red Neck).

Ikofo (Cream puppy, Green Middle) will, I think, be the dog for Dogs for the Disabled - we'll have to see what Rob thinks when he visits, which leaves Isobel, Iggle Piggle (the smallest pup, but the most adventurous and first to pop his head over the parapet...) and Ivory Ice (Red Shoulder) still available.

I have a blood clinic on Tuesday, so the puppies will get their first vet check whilst the vet is here anyway. Its always a huge relief to hear the vet proclaim them sound and free from defects like heart murmers etc.

2009-05-26T21:38:00.004+01:00

Barleors Indian Imp explores novel stimuli in a unique manner...