Friends – Page 11

All I want for Christmas is?

As the Christmas holiday period looms over the horizon, I sat wondering recently what some of my friends and their parents thought of the Christmas period. I wondered if and how they enjoyed themselves, so I asked a few of them. These are the first set of replies I have got. There are others I will put on here in forthcoming blogs.

He looks a bit too big to fit down my chimney!

If you had one chance to see one place in the world at Christmas where would it be?

Griff: Heaven, just for a day, so I could meet Charley and say thank you for helping your M&D find me.

Fergus: M spent last Christmas in Australia with lifelong friends, and she loved it. She’d love to spend it with me in a log cabin in Scotland.

Raffa: Santa Paws workshop, North Pole

Oscar: I would like to be in Santa’s Sleigh. That way I could zoom around the world delivering presents to all my pals and their humans and give them all a Christmas snuggle.

Beadnell: Bethlehem.

You can meet one person at Christmas, who?

Griff: Charley Beagle.

Fergus: Mum says Joe Lycett as she reckons he’d be a cracking dinner guest but I say Santa Paws

Raffa: Santa Paws

Oscar: This is tough. I would like to meet Santa Paws but Og met him last year and Og said that he smelt funny and had run out of presents. So I would really like to meet 3 special souls; Goon, Bean and Momma Boo

Beadnell: Santa Paws

Best thing about Christmas?

Griff: Turkey dinner.

Fergus: Mum loves the cold weather at this time of year, I’m not so sure. I love that many humans are happy

Raffa: Being with family

Oscar: Nut would say “Wrapping paper” but I would say extra noms

Beadnell: Noms

Worst thing about it?

Griff: We love Christmas Day so our answer is nothing.

Fergus: Mum & I will not be spending Christmas together this year, again: she is going to a friend’s and they have elderly cats. So it will be sad to not be together but I am going to my amazing holibobs home and Mum says we’ll have our Christmas the weekend after. It’s also very sad to think about all the humans and furs that are alone, lonely or without homes.

Raffa: Washing up.

Oscar: Knowing that there are dogs and humans that are alone and sad

Beadnell: Disruption

Sprouts or no sprouts?

Griff: Sprouts – with turkey gravy

Fergus: Mum says YES! I say no thanks love.

Raffa: Sprouts for Mum, none for me

Oscar: We love sprouts especially when they’re mixed with bacon.

Beadnell: Sprouts but not for me for fear of farting

One gift you could give to one friend?

Griff: I would turn back the clock and give a fit and healthy Pruny back to auntie Carolina.

Fergus: A brand new ball to play with and have lots of fun all year round! Or, until you dead it

Raffa: Life

Oscar: I would like to give a Skype call to the Rainbow Bridge to anyone that wants one.

Beadnell:Time

Something you would like to receive?

Griff: I have everything I need, so I would like to hear that all animal testing has been stopped at Midnight on Christmas Day.

Fergus: Mum would like new running trainers; I would like lots of fishy treats

Raffa: Good health

Oscar: A Skype call from the Rainbow Bridge

Beadnell: Understanding

Best Christmas song?

Griff: Fairytale of New York

Fergus: Mum can’t decide between “Fairytale of New York” by The Pogues or that Slade song. I like the ones that make M happy and dance like a loon as I then join in with her and we have a lot of fun

Raffa: Driving home for Christmas

Oscar: Fairytale of New York

Beadnell: Anything choral or happy.

Do you think Christmas has lost its meaning?

Griff: Yes

Fergus: Mum says she thinks it has. It’s so commercial for so many. She is looking forward to spending time with friends, being with them and not thinking about other worldly worries.

Raffa: Yes

Oscar: Maybe just a little bit, which makes my Mum sad

Beadnell: Only if you let it.

Has it been watered down into a purely commercial thing?

Griff: To a large degree yes, but not entirely.

Fergus: Mum says not purely but definitely very commercial.

Raffa: Yes

Oscar: We don’t think so but that is dependant on the humans who try to make it that way

Beadnell: Only if you let it.

Do you wear reindeer ears at Christmas, or should they stay on the reindeer?

Griff: Mum has reindeer ears for Boot and myself. We do our best to shake them off and avoid wearing them.

Fergus: I think they should stay on the reindeer, pal. It’s bad enough Mum gives me a Christmas jumper!

Raffa: I wear various headwear at Christmas.

Oscar: I sure wish they would stay on the Reindeer

Beadnell: Antlers are for Reindeer

New Years Resolution or are they a total waste of time?

Griff: Waste of time

Fergus: Not if they’re the thing that gives you a focus. Mum says she “resolves to be the same fabulous, foul-mouthed person she always is” and it works out just fine.

Raffa: Resolution but it needs to be achievable not silly.

Oscar: Nothing is ever a waste of time but we dont make resolutions cos we can’t keep them

Beadnell: The middle of winter is not the best time to deprive yourself and do tough things: only humans would do that.

Bring back one thing about Christmas past?

Griff: Snow. A white Christmas should be compulsory

Fergus: Snow

Raffa: Great Grandma

Oscar: Mum says Naivety – when Christmas was super exciting and magical like when she was a little girl

Beadnell: Everyone Over The Rainbow Bridge for Christmas Day

Home Alone or A Christmas Carol?

Griff: A Christmas Carol

Fergus: Neither. Mum says Elf

Raffa: Home Alone

Oscar: Home Alone

Beadnell: A Christmas Carol

Would you rather have Christmas with friends or with your parents?

Griff: Parents, but all our friends would be invited.

Fergus: Mum spends Christmas with friends. She says next year she will make sure it’s not with cat friends.

Raffa: Friends

Oscar: Everyone, friends and family. That would be a pawsome pawty

Beadnell: Friends

Do you get turkey shares?

Griff: Silly question. Of course.

Fergus: Mum is a vegetarian so never turkey.

Raffa: No, but maybe this year

Oscar: Don’t you?

Beadnell: Of course

Do you think you will have snow at Christmas? Do you like snow at Christmas?

Griff: Probably not, but we love snow at Christmas

Fergus: Maybe, there is already snow here where I live. We love it, however mum isn’t so keen on driving through it though.

Raffa: No, but I like it

Oscar: Probably not, probably rain, but we would like a white Christmas. We love snow, any time. We like to pee in it and make it yellow.

Beadnell: Not in Northumberland. And I am not that keen on anything that wets my paws

Cluedo or Scrabble? Who wins?

Griff: Scrabble. Griff = 2+1+1+4+4 = 12 points, Boot = 3+1+1+1 = 6 points, so Griff wins.

Fergus: Mum loves both. She gets competitive with both too! This is the first time she’s spending Christmas with these friends so she’s not sure who will win, but she’ll be trying her best!

Raffa: Cluedo

Oscar: Cluedo, Mum wins. She always wins.

Beadnell: Neither.

Trivial Pursuit or Monopoly? Who wins?

Griff: Trivial Pursuit and mum would win

Fergus: Monopoly to be played properly, but the Trivial Pursuit questions are fun to answer anyway. Mum always picks the Scottie piece in Monopoly, naturally.

Raffa: Trivial Pursuit

Oscar: Monopoly. Dad wins. Sometimes.

Beadnell: Monopoly

Fairy or a star on top of the Christmas Tree?

Griff: Star

Fergus: Star

Raffa: Star

Oscar: We have 2 trees, one with a star and the other with a fairy.

Beadnell: Polar Bear

I am home

If I may, I would like to indulge my fair readers for a short time.

In the world of rescues there are a number of days, dates and occasions which mean an awful lot to many. The saddest of these occasions is our time to pass over the Rainbow Bridge. With our job on earth being completed, we take the longest journey to the everlasting meadow. I’ve no intention of making any such journey any time soon.

Another is our birthday and this is a day of joy and happiness for all involved. Sadly my birthday isnt until May so I have too long to wait.

The third, and the one which affects me today, is called a Gotcha Day. It is the day we officially allow our humans to adopt us, look after us, look out for us and generally become minions for our every need and whim. I came to my forever home on 19th December 2013.

I strolled into the house sometime late in the morning, through the cold sleet. I had no idea what to expect when I arrived but all I knew was that it was very different from a kennel and that these people, who’s house I now owned, had been to see me three times in the rescue centre and had said good things about me. The log fire was burning, there were strange decorations on a green tree in the corner of the room and there was a crate in the dining room. And it had a bed in the crate along with a bed in the living room and another in the study. Within days I was celebrating Christmas and getting two or three walks a day to explore the local area.

Once I had realised that I had stability and routine after some eighteen months, I began to settle in and saw my pawrents as forever. We had worked with each other to overcome my anxiety and confusion at the lack of stability. We were going to reap the rewards by taking long walks through muddy fields, large muddy puddles, across farms, through more muddy fields and even flooded local lanes. I enjoyed it anyway.

I have explored Surrey, Sussex, Dorset, the Lake District, Yorkshire, the Chilterns and even been to Essex for the day. I’ve had dozens of trip on the London Underground and even been to London itself on numerous occasions. I would never have done any of this if I had not chosen my pawrents that fateful day. This year I have allowed my little brother Lenny to join the family and I think I am supposed to have grown wiser. I’m not so sure.

Therefore a Gotcha Day is an important date in most rescued animals lives. It’s the day we hopefully get the stability and routine we need. It’s the day we see the love, friendship and lifelong companionship with our pawrents start and then blossom. I have so many friends that my life is happy and fulfilled.

It’s the day we get to say “I have a home and it’s forever”. It’s the best day.

Postcard from London

A few years ago I sent a postcard to my good friend, Raffa the Beagle, who lives near Liverpool. It was a postcard of London with a tick list of sights to see, including Big Ben and the Tower of London amongst others.

A couple of weeks ago, we heard from Raffa who said that she was going to come to London to try and tick off some of the sights, and she asked me if we would like to be guides. Of course I couldn’t think of another fur in this house who had been to London so I volunteered my service and took Lenny along to carry the bags.

It came as somewhat of a rude shock to Lenny that we were unceremoniously woken up at 6 am on a Saturday. After a very brief walk locally we were marched up the hill to the train station so we could whizz into London. Fortunately it was a lovely sunny day but it was a bit chilly. After we arrived in London, we strolled through Regents Park towards Euston Station so we could greet Raffa and her mum in true beagle fashion by a huge arooo in the middle of the station concourse. Raffa was in her chariot as she cannot walk as far as she could do when she was a young pup.

We immediately wandered off to find the tube station as Raffa had always wanted a trip on a tube train.

We got off the tube at Moorgate and strolled to the Guildhall (original meeting place of the Guilds of craftsmen for the City of London), Royal Exchange (the original stock exchange), Bank of England (where Raffa keeps her pennies), Mansion House (official residence of the Lord Mayor of London) and then on to Leadenhall Market (poultry market from Victorian times but now a boutique shopping area) where we made our first pit stop for some coffee to warm up the humans.

We started the next leg by walking down to the Tower of London which was very busy with visitors, and where Lenny managed to see a pesky squirrel but forgot to tell me & Raffa. We then crossed Tower Bridge.

We went along the side of the river, making our way through the throngs of tourist visitors on the south side of London Bridge. We showed Raffa the replica of the Golden Hinde ship (Francis Drake’s ship), the Clink (original dungeon prison in London) and then went on to see the rebuilt Shakespeares Globe theatre.

Now for the exciting part as we crossed the Millennium Bridge, also known as the wobbly bridge, and saw St Pauls Cathedral in its glory directly ahead.

Having strolled past the cathedral we went down Ludgate Hill and into Fleet Street (famous for printing) and managed to get two tables in a pub for some lunch snacks, as well as warming ourselves away from the chilly wind. Suitably refreshed we set off and found ourselves in the middle of a wedding procession coming out of the nearby St Bride’s Church, accompanied by a brass band. This surprised us all. We continued along The Strand and dad managed to stop pedestrians crossing the road, as he told Lenny to “WAIT” and they thought he was talking to them. We continued towards Trafalgar Square to see Nelson’s Column and then off to Whitehall (government area) to stop at Horseguards Parade to see a member of the Household Cavalry, who was watching Raffa to make she didn’t misbehave.

The London Eye across the river was spied, then Big Ben and Westminster Abbey were ticked off before we ended up at Buckingham Palace. Unfortunately the Queen wasn’t at home otherwise we would have popped in for a cup of tea and a cucumber sandwich (without crusts of course).

To finish we wandered slowly up The Mall back towards Trafalgar Square and took a London Black Cab to return to the train station at Euston. We woofed a sad cheerio to Raffa and her mum as they boarded their train back to Liverpool and their home.

Our journey home on the train passed like a blur, mainly due to Lenny and I having walked nearly 13 miles in total and being very tired. It was worth being really tired though, as we showed Raffa around London and she ticked off all the sights on her postcard except one. No Yeoman of the Guard Beefeaters were seen at the Tower of London. We hope we did Raffa proud as she managed to see nearly everything on her postcard list.

Finally I have to admit that Lenny was so good, given it was his first trip to London. He managed the trains, tubes and strolling around with great aplomb. We took ages getting from one place to the next as so many people wanted to say hello to us and give Raffa, Lenny and I many tickles. He dealt with the sights, smells and noises of London without fright or fear. I am proud ears of him.

The history of Hamish

Continuing in the vein of speaking with friends who have inspired me and made me feel loved, I thought it might be good to hear some background on a funny, intelligent, happy BT who lives in Glasgow and who goes by the name of Hamish. Many people follow him which is not unsurprising. He is most approachable and always pleasant, polite and happy to woof with all furs. He is the epitome of what being friends is all about. From personal experience he has helped me out on a number of occasions where I have needed a shoulder or a wise ear to bend. I will never forget his kindness.

He was one of my first twitter pals, and though I haven’t yet met him, I wanted to find out some more about the brilliant fur he is. So sit back, grab some popcorn and enjoy the ride.

When you arrived in your forever home as a pupster, were you adopted or bought? If you came from breeders, do you have famous posh heritage.

I was little 8 week pupster and I came from just outside Bannockburn. I was the tiny pup and my sisters were about twice the size.

You say you were the smallest, does this mean you were the youngest of the litter? Assume you were healthy and everything was good.

Yes I was healthy but the girls in the litter were definitely bigger. I remember I was so small that my first vaccines were the ones for a rabbit.

Do you know where all your litter siblings are? Do you still have contact with them?

I don’t know where my siblings are. There were 2 boys and 3 girls in the litter.

No idea why I’m wearing collar on day one.

Have you always lived in Glasgow?

Yes, I like living here as I like the city and I can be nosey at all the people. Also Glasgow has got lots of big parks and green spaces so it all good for exploring.

When you joined twitter was it for fun or was there a background reason?

My mum joined twitter because she bought a job lot of candles and sold them on eBay!! Hence the yankee bit in our name. But then she tweeted a picture of me wrapped in a Scotland flag around time of referendum thingy in 2014 and Clapton found me. The rest is history as they say.

Ok, once you had joined Twitter and Mr Clapton “found you” did you change your approach? What I mean is did your picture appearing on your Mum’s page change her mind straightway to being more about finding out about BT’s, the breed and traits.

Yes my mum only had about 20 followers and didn’t really understand Twitter but then everyone so welcoming and we quickly got to know lots of other BTs and really enjoyed their adventures.

Are you the first dog that your mum has owned?

There were two Jack Russell Terriers in the house when she was growing up but she never had a dog of her own before I arrived. She knew she wanted a little dog and one that was fairly uncomplicated in terms of grooming and things. Then one day she was walking up at Loch Lomond and there was a couple with two little brown dogs walking in front of them. All day up and down hills their tails were wagging. Mum and her pal caught up with the owners when they stopped for lunch. The people said they were Border Terriers and they said they were the best dogs ever. So that was that and the rest is history.

When you decided to change your M’s twitter perspective, was it an instant decision to try and make it predominantly light hearted with some interesting stuff like #hamishdoeshistory thrown in?

I’m not sure we really thought much about the tone of our twitter we just thought we’d share our walks and trips.

Were you a naughty or a goodly pupster, easy to train or just have a mind of your own?

I’m not well trained: I’m not allowed off the lead as I have no recall. This is more mum’s fault than mine as she would worry too much that I might run away!

Has Twitter changed since you have been on here?

We really like twitter. We have got to know so many nice dogs, cats, hamsters, humans that we would never have met in real life! We know so much more about different places now. The support from twitter and the shared fun and laughter does make us very happy!

You are the Quartermaster in the ZS. How did this come about?

Aw yes! Well we do love the zombiesquad and I’m not sure how it all started from my perspective. And I am in the BeagleBugClub which means loads! I’ve never had post from Argentina before! That was so special! Everyone is so kind and welcoming.

When you do #hamishdoeshistory do you feel like you are introducing people to your city?

Yes I think you are right about Hamish does history we try to show people things they might not see otherwise.

When I did the interview with Winston about his life and achievements, I asked him about the reason behind starting ZS. He said it was to bring together as many pals as possible to show that if everyone all got on and pulled together, then anything could be achieved. Is this something that you see? I only ask as you are a friend to everyone and always happy to help and lend an ear.

I dont think Winston, Clapton and others probably realise the difference they make to a lot of folk’s lives. We spoke about it at a tweet up. There are people who don’t have a dog or maybe for health reasons they don’t get out as much as they might like but through Zombiesquad or the BT Posse or Beagle Bug Club they have this community they are part of!

My fur cousin Angus & I. Best of buddies

Hamish, apart from George Square where the Duke of Wellington is duly attired with his traffic cone hat, do you have a favourite place in Glasgow.

In Glasgow my favourite place is Pollok Park it a big country park with highland cows and Clydesdale horses.

Also do you have a favourite place in Scotland.

I love going to Loch Lomond which is just about 25 minutes in the car there lots of great walks and places to explore

If you could have a dinner party, who would you invite and why?

My dream dinner party would be a BBQ on Luskentyre beach on Harris and I’d want to invite all our twitter pals!

Is there a favourite #hamishdoeshistory place you have been to, and are there other places you haven’t yet visited but want to?

This my favourite Hamish does history it was recreation of ww1 trenches

As for places I have never been, I would really like to visit London. We would pretend to be the dog on the monopoly board and go to all the places on the board.

Is there anywhere in Glasgow that you havent yet covered for #hamishdoeshistory ?

Well I’d like to sneak on the pitch at Hampden Park but that might be hard to achieve.

What three pearls of wisdom would you give a fur just coming onto Twitter?

I think my advice to folk joining twitter would be enjoy it! Be yourself and don’t worry if any troll type folk reply. Just ignore them as they soon get bored and go away.

You are allowed to meet one person, living or over the rainbow bridge. Who is it and why?

This is tough but the fur I would have loved to have met was Marley. He started something so special. It’s so sad that his life on this side of the bridge was so short but Clapton, TT and the wider BT Posse community do so much to keep his memory alive.

On that note I want to thank Hamish and his mum for allowing me to ask questions. It is an honour to know of Hamish and to chat with him. He is a wise and gentle fur, and a very good friend to all.

Adoption is better

It’s that most wonderful time of the year again. Almost. People will be looking for the best gift for a loved one and dogs will undoubtedly be somewhere near the top of an awful lot of wish lists. However please take a moment to think before you do anything. Please!

There are rescue centres, adoption centres, re-homing and shelters all over the world, some bursting at the seams, with dogs of all shapes, sizes, colours and varieties all waiting for a comfy sofa to enjoy. The residents are puppies through to older dogs, all hoping for a chance to repay someone with love and loyalty for the remainder of their lives. For one reason or another every one of the dogs in “rescue” have not been able to find a home, or stay in homes, with people that could and often have loved them for a long time.

The bright lights, glitz and glamour of Christmas bring an alluring glow to the prospect of welcoming a furry bundle of joy and fun into your house, to please the children and make the adults smile and coo over the sheer cuteness. Think for a moment though about where the little bundle of fur has come from? Has he or she been bred through a reputable breeder or just mass produced by some puppy mill, who’s sole purpose is to make money likely for more criminal activities. Every time a puppy is purchased through a puppy mill, the money goes to unknown and very likely said nefarious activities continuing to cause misery to dogs. Many of the dogs provided through these mills are sick and will have a multitude of problems from the very first breath they take.

What happens also once the initial glitzy allure has worn off. That time you look outside and it’s raining, pouring even, and we need to go out for a walk and do what nature intended us to do. When the little bundle of joy wakes you up at 4 am needing to go out or having been ill and needs some love and attention. The time when you are working hard and we pine for some attention, some interaction through play or training. We can’t justifiably be pushed to one side as an after thought.

Rescue or shelter dogs are historically considered as having problems. This is fairly unlikely. The vast majority of rescue or shelter dogs are unwanted or abandoned for so many different reasons and very few of those reasons are our behavioural difficulties. Rescue and shelter organisations are adept at ensuring that those of us with behavioural difficulties are either homed with an appropriate family or we are assisted in steadying our fears and any reactions we may have.

Lenny and I are rescues, both from different organisations and different parts of the world. Both of us it seems were unfortunate enough to be unwanted and found wandering the streets. We weren’t a passing thought, a swift consideration or an off the cuff purchase. We were and remain a commitment. We are for life, not just for Christmas and a few months after. So many other dogs end up in rescue because little or no homework has been done on us prior to purchase.

If you want to think about getting a dog this Christmas, please consider rescue. You would be saving two lives as you would empty a rescue kennel space for another dog to move into. The love and loyalty you will receive in return for your decision will make you smile and feel happy day after day.

We are worth it. We remain a commitment, however you will have such a feeling of satisfaction from helping us into a loving home will warm you for ages. I promise you, from the bottom of my happy and thankful heart.

Is it four months already?

Since he arrived on 27th April 2019 it is surprising what Lenny has got up to in such a short amount of time. We were thinking that it couldn’t be 4 months since he arrived and turned our lives upside down, could it? However it is true, it’s four months and everything has changed for us all.

So here’s a list of some of his achievements so far.

He’s visited a nanny and been around the motorway in the car. He’s walked in Ashridge, Wendover, Chesham, Ley Hill, Amersham and Pednor. He’s been to 6 training sessions, had his “ahem” operation and firmly got his paws under the table here. He hasn’t been ill since the first time in the car and seems to enjoy travelling now. He’s been using my Twitter and has found himself some admirers for being a handsome pup. He’s been to a brewery, chewed numerous of my toys and helped to chase squirrels out of the garden. He’s got himself a bed or three, has the use of some of my harnesses that I don’t wear any more and has become expert in chewing sticks and grass in the garden.

When he first arrived we knew it would turn my life upside down and inside out. Boy has he done that. We had no idea what he would be like, whether he would settle quickly or if it would be quite a long transition as it was with me. Fortunately it has been quick, as he has adjusted in around three months. I was ok after around 2 years. Recently he’s been seeking some reassuring cuddles from mum and dad. He seems to be looking at us all and thinking “maybe this is my home, but just to make certain, I will get some tickles”. He doesn’t hassle me as much as he used to and I also give him the right signals more often than before so he can see when its play time or not. For instance I like to scent in the garden first thing in the morning and he used to run after me biting my ankles. He now canters off in one direction whilst I am off in the opposite direction and we can fill our noses with lovely morning smells. Yes we squabble a little afterwards, but its not as intense as it was originally.

It all seems to have settled down a little now he has become more accustomed to being here and his confidence has grown as he has realised he has a place in the household, alongside me.

We are pleased he has settled more in the car for travelling as this was somewhat of a worry for us initially. We try to get out and about to some different places to enjoy walks. If he had been a worried traveller, this may have restricted the places we could go and show to him. I think it helped that I can travel with him and he tends to lean against me in our travel crates when we first set off on an adventure. Once we have been going for a while however, he lays down and seems to be at ease. It may also have been helpful that when we first went in the car together, I leapt into the boot without thinking. Maybe I showed him there was little or nothing to be worried about with the car. I hope so.

We will keep you updated on his progress, hopefully he will come on in further leaps and bounds over the ensuing months and years. All paws are crossed that he continues his great progress.

Lenny’s a little lighter

My beagle brother Lenny had a little, ahem, operation last Thursday 8th August. He left the house wondering why his breakfast was so early and then found himself, half a walk later, in the local veterinary for his procedure to take place. I was out on my walk and only just got back in time to woof cheerio to him. I don’t think he knew what was happening. Mum and dad looked a little apprehensive.

Some time later the same afternoon the phone rang and we were told that he was out and was resting, so we could go and get him soon after. Dad toddled off and brought home the little dazed and bemused Beagle who tiptoed into the house and promptly went to sleep on one of our six beds (yes we probably are spoiled). I was watching him that evening and thought how serene he looked. He was sleeping quietly, without too much twitching and seemed to be calmness personified. It was nice not to have him trying to make my ears look like colanders. However I also wondered if he was alright? Was he in pain? Was he so spaced out with the Metacam that he didn’t really know what was happening. He slept so soundly that we all wondered if this could continue.

The next day he was up and about quite late for him, around 7 am. He seemed to still be a bit confounded as to what had happened. The buster collar, or Donut of Doom, was waiting in the wings in case he decided he wanted to lick the wound and damage the stitches. He was very good though, as he only went near the incision once or twice. It helped that mum & dad were watching him like the proverbial hawks. He was escorted around the garden on a lead which he found quite restrictive. We couldn’t play fight and whilst this was quite dull, it also meant I could catch up on some sleep in relative peace and quiet, which evened out the boredom factor.

He went back to the vets on Tuesday and they were really happy with the way his wound had healed. He hasn’t been chewing or biting, he hasn’t been licking and hasn’t needed the Donut of Doom. The vet said lead walks for another five days which is still frustrating for him but he seems to have got used to being trussed up in the garden. When he came back from his walk this morning, dad let him wander about free in the garden as I wasn’t yet home so there wouldn’t be any incidents of bitey face. He strolled about sniffing. We can’t wait for him to be off lead again very soon. There are many shenanigans to be had, albeit under the watchful gaze of our mum and dad.

There won’t be any little versions of Lenny running about but that doesn’t matter to me. He’s my pal, my beagle brother and my buddy. He’s in a good place. That’s what matters to me.

Cyprus Beagles

As people will be aware, little Lenny was adopted from Cyprus Beagles. Now he is well and truly esconced in the house with his paws firmly under the table, we thought it would be a nice idea to try and find out some more about Cyprus Beagles. As he is the main recipient of the kindness and love of the ladies at Cyprus Beagles, I am going to let him loose on the blog, so over to you Lenny.

Hello again friends, I am honoured to be asked to do a blog on Dexter’s behalf. He asked me what I would be interested in finding out and I, of course, said the lovely people who rescued me.

There are two ladies who organise the rescue of Beagles from Cyprus. Erin Scott (ES) in Cyprus and Joanne Mason (JM) in the UK. I am proud to ask the questions Lenny Beagle (LB).

My first question was “When did it all start?“

(JM) In July 2013 my mum posted a picture on Facebook of a lovely Beagle that was in danger of being PTS she simply wrote “number 5” as we already had 3 Beagles and a Sausage! I managed to get in contact with Erin who was the author of the Facebook post. I told her we were going to be out on holiday and would like to help if welcome. It turns out Erin knew my mum as she used the vet clinic Erin works at. We arranged to meet and Wilson became our first foster. He arrived in the UK on 17th September 2013. I didn’t keep Wilson, he was rehomed. I know where all our dogs are and I’m in touch with all but one.

My love for the breed started in May 2011 when I got my first Beagle puppy (Mabel), having done no research and quickly developed a love for the breed. The rest as they say is history. Hank quickly followed Mabel in Februry 2012 as a 6 month old pup that had already had 2 homes.

Fostering isn’t always easy on the heart, each and everyone holds a very special place in my heart. Some you bond with more than others, for instance one thing I’ve learned is that if you let them sleep on your bed, you’re done for. Some of these hounds have been through so much and have every reason not to trust a human ever again. Yet they love and trust us. It’s an absolute privilege to be the UK part of Cyprus Beagles.

(ES) I started working as a vet nurse in Cyprus in 2008. I saw many cases of abuse and neglect, particularly for the hunting dogs here. However it also made me realise what amazing characters they have. I adopted my first rescue Pointer mix, but sadly he was poisoned (a fairly common occurrence here) a year later. I then adopted another, and feeling that she needed a friend, I decided to adopt a buddy for her. Having dealt with Beagles in my job, I started looking for one, and along came Jeremy Beagle. It was then that my love for Beagles began. Thereafter I went on to foster a few dogs for other rescue groups, and also created a Facebook page to share the many posts of Beagles needing homes in Cyprus. I rehomed 2 Beagles in Cyprus, prior to meeting Jo. Wilson came along, I met Jo, and Cyprus Beagles came about. In the beginning it was a learning curve, ensuring that we were doing everything correctly in terms of travel, preparing our dogs and making sure they were as healthy as possible. For example, even though blood testing is not a legal requirement we still do it. There was never a question of cutting corners or not doing things properly. We also had to find a way to fund our venture but still make it an affordable option for UK adopters. We are extremely lucky to have the support we do now, but in the beginning it was sometimes touch-and-go whether we would have the funds necessary.

(LB) Thank you for the extensive responses, I have a question on the airlines that carry the beagles to the UK. It sounds a little strange, but was there any problems with arranging the transport? Was it fairly straightforward thanks to the “connection” between Cyprus and the UK?

(JM) No problems whatsoever. The staff at the ARC’s (Animal Reception Centres) at Gatwick and Heathrow are fantastic. They care passionately about the dogs, they are always let out of their crates, allowed to go to the toilet and clean bedding etc is put in their crates before they are released to their owners or consignee. I know most of the staff by name and they know me which helps to build a good relationship.

(ES) Flights are always booked through our fabulous flight coordinator. That way we get group booking/rescue rates. I can only imagine the work and juggling involved for her especially, recently, with airlines going bust and others imposing new rules at the last minute. Check-in here usually goes OK from our side of things, with most of the staff quite interested in all these dogs turning up.

(LB) How many beagles have you rescued and re-homed to the UK?

(ES) The numbers are high, but there are always more beagles waiting. So far we’ve re-homed 56 Beagles, and one very special Jura Hound. If you include those that never left me it’s another 4, plus Snoop, who we sadly had to have put to sleep here because of his medical issues. Currently I have 2 fosters here in Cyprus, being 1 hound and 1 Beagle. So altogether it’s 64 dogs rescued under Cyprus Beagles.

(LB) Apart from being in love with the breed (who can blame you!), is there any other reason for focusing on Beagles?

(ES) A reason to be a breed-specific rescue is for the sake of my sanity. The number of stray, abandoned and abused dogs here in Cyprus is prohibitive. I had to find a way to limit our focus, as it was driving me slightly crazy not being able to save every dog. We still can’t help every needy Beagle that we are informed of, but we try and help those most in need or in danger.

(LB) If you could change something, what would it be? For instance, do you think the authorities in Cyprus do enough to protect the beagles on the island?

(ES) Cyprus needs to enforce its existing law on microchipping and registration, and be much tougher on those flouting the law. The permissable ‘standards’ for how to keep a dog should be raised, especially for hunters dogs. It’s common to see metal cages in the middle of the fields, housing 1 or many dogs. The cages are often full of poop and only a bucket of green water for drinking. The dogs are mostly only taken out to hunt. Pet dogs are often kept on chains in yards. There needs to be a positive drive for neutering. Every day I’m aware of a Beagle in need and it makes me upset. Those that obviously have Leishmania (*see footer note*) we just cannot take on, as the chances of rehoming are very small, and the potential expenses very big. I can only keep so many myself and those I have already have problems, which cost me a fortune! Thankfully we had space to take on Bosley, knowing full well that he was a serious case, but it seems that Watson is not a rehoming prospect either, which leaves me with 5 permanent dogs.

(LB) Do you think that any changes will actually be undertaken to alleviate the suffering and subsequent re-homing of the Beagles?

(ES) I don’t think the authorities will be making any positive changes soon. There have been rumours of new legislation but it actually doesn’t address the major issues.

(LB) Finally, what do you think would be the most help to you, outside of additional donations and funds.

(ES) What would help us most? This is a tricky question really. As we are, with Jo and myself doing what we do, we are limited as to the number of dogs we can help. However this keeps it more personal and I really see the two of us and our adopters and of course the Beagles as a big Cyprus Beagles family. If we had more people to foster, in Cyprus and the UK, we could potentially rehome more dogs. But I’m not sure we would be as successful.

(JM) I totally agree with Erin on what would help us. Because we are so small we can have a much more personal relationship with our adopters. They really are like family to us. A lot of the Beagles come back to me to board when their new mums and dads are on holiday. As such I truly believe we are as successful as we are, because we are so small, and we are extremely lucky to have a very lovely group of supporters.

Lola. Now living her life in Northampton.

(LB) So it’s a case of having more people to give homes to Beagles like me then? That’s more than reasonable. One final, final question. You mentioned two of the Beagles who couldn’t be homed here in the UK, can you let us know a little more about them?

(ES) BOSLEY. At the end of November 2017 I was tagged in a post for a very sick little Beagle. I knew straight away from the pictures that he had leishmania. I also knew we had to help him. He captured people’s hearts and due to the amazing donations that our supporters sent we were able to give him the best treatment possible. Bosley pulled through but has been left with limited vision. He has also had a couple of seizures. Leishmania is a lifelong disease so he will most likely be on medication for the rest of his life. But he is the most Beagly, stubborn, greedy little boy there is, and he lives his life to the fullest!

WATSON. Watson was an inmate at a local pound. No-one claimed him, so he came to us. His nose was cause for concern, and after a lot of investigation we found out he has lupus, an autoimmune disease. It’s a constant battle to keep on top of his nose problem; currently he’s on a grain-free diet and two kinds of supplements, as well as steroids. We’ve also fixed one ruptured cruciate ligament, with the second one to be done also, but it’s a balancing act with his treatment protocol right now. Watson is a strange little Beagle, but his zest for food and walks is second to none.

(LB) Ladies, thank you for giving us a better insight into how you do the rescues, why you do them (of course its obvious) and that you will continue to do them. And from a personal point of view, thank you for rescuing me. I am now in my forever home with my brother and parents with whom I am happy and contented. Without your efforts, I would be probably still be a street dog and I much prefer my life now.

If you would like to find out more about Cyprus Beagles, please visit their Facebook page and contact the ladies directly. I am sure they will be glad to hear from more prospective adopters for Beagles like me who need a new home with love and tickles. And food.

*Leishmania* is due to protozoan parasites from the Leishmania species. You get leishmaniasis from being bitten by an infected sand fly. The parasite lives and multiplies inside the female sand fly. This insect is most active in humid environments during the warmer months and at night, from dusk to dawn. Symptoms can include Skin lesions – particularly near the head and pressure points, Lymphadenopathy – Swollen lymph nodes, Enlarged spleen, Weight loss, Fever, Abnormal nails, Epitaxis Renal disease symptoms, Anaemia

Big brother is watching you, Lenny

I’m getting used to this being a “big brother” idea. Ok, so I am not his brother in the strictest sense of the word. However he needed help settling in and as the senior beagle, I could step in.

Once we had recognised more fully that Lenny’s initial position was pretty much the same as mine when I arrived, the ideas started to come back to us. For instance how had mum and dad handled walking me? Did that work? If not, let’s see if there is something different can be done. How did they resolve the walking? What happened when I didn’t want to sleep in my bed, but on the big bed? How did they sort it out. How long did it take for me to become used to waiting for my food instead of diving straight in? Could I help or hinder their attempts at ensuring Lenny wasn’t the same as me. Hang on, what’s that last one all about!

There is a significant difference though. When I arrived there was no other dog to greet me and to show me the ropes as it were. I wandered into mum and dad’s life and apparently turned it upside down. We were all learning as we went along and we all made mistakes along the way. However there were also little triumphs which became more and more frequent. When Lenny arrived on the scene I was in a position to lend mum and dad my expertise in handling rescue beagles. Whether they wanted to listen to my woofs of wisdom, I don’t know, but I offered them anyway. It seems they already had a pretty good idea of handling a disruptive influence so they were able to use some of their knowledge on little Lenny. Hang on, that’s another slight on me isn’t it? Ugh good grief.

His training has helped him understand that he has a home for life here. He has to brush up on some manners such as not snatching treats from mum and dad’s fingers as well as waiting for the ok before eating his food from his bowl. He is doing really well on these, and even I have impressed ears for him. This also means he is more likely to listen to commands, unlike me on most occasions. Dad said that Lenny had understood “leave” very quickly when he was at training last week. I know they are practising regularly as I hear “Leave” and I even I have to double check the command isn’t for me. Having said all this, I am ahead of Lenny in some respects. I do know to sit at the kerb when crossing the road and waiting for my food bowl to actually be placed on the floor before I inhale my food. I know to walk close and I do know about not pulling hard when we go down slippery slopes. These are just some of things I have learnt, as I am often times told that I am a good boy when I do the right thing. I think it comes from repetition and knowing that I will get a tickle or some treats for being good. Lenny will have to learn these things too, along with many other new tricks it seems. Not that I am enjoying watching him being put through his paces each day, of course. No, not me.

Did someone say “Leave” or “Dinner time”?

I have been watching mum and dad since Lenny arrived and it occurred to me that the relaxed aura which had come into our life recently and prior to Lenny was regressing a little. We had become much more accustomed to one another and I was relaxing sufficiently to ensure that they weren’t on the edge of their seats every time I went out into the garden or wandered off to lay on a bed in another room. Now some of the concern seems to have crept back into their lives. I suppose it doesn’t help that Lenny and I usually follow each other around the house, trying to nibble each others ankles and ears to provoke the other into a squabble. We are reducing the number of times we start picking on each other for a squabble though. He is gradually understanding that he can stroll about and snooze in whatever dog bed he wants to, or lay on the rug and sun puddle. I think that, once the training has taken more effect, he will be able to wander around without thinking that he is being watched all the time and without mum and dad wondering where the little tyke has got to. Again though, they are relaxing with him as he is becoming more comfortable in the house and garden.

I am not sure I am the model big brother for Lenny. We do tend to mess about quite a bit and the squabbling and silliness can continue for some time. We enjoy our time out in the garden. Once the rough and tumble of play fighting has eased we can do our own thing which usually means me sniffing for squirrels and Lenny chewing sticks. The first walk in the morning is sometimes the best as we are both scenting all the intruders in the garden from the previous night. Sometimes I want to play and other times I am lending mum and dad a paw when they are trying to teach Lenny to calm down and rest for longer periods during the day. I am quite excitable sometimes and this may have an adverse effect on him. As I said a short time ago, we are getting better at leaving each other alone for longer and the level of play fighting has subsided. We can wander around the garden minding our own business. We eat together and don’t try to steal each others food (as much as we originally did) and we can snooze in our beds close together. Often I lay and watch Lenny when he’s snoozing. I wonder if I was like that when I was a pup, if I was pesky and always wanting to find out where the boundaries are and how far can I push those boundaries before getting told off. I wonder if I can do things differently to help mum and dad with Lenny’s settlement into the house and routine. I know what they would say to that.

I wonder if he is happy? What I mean by “happy” is, content in his heart and knows that he is safe and loved, rather than just thinking “its a nice garden and there are beds and food so this should be alright”. I hope he does know that he is safe and loved because that is precisely what he is.

Yes even by me, his naughty big brother.

Farewell Port Hunter

It is with sadness that I must write of another beagle friend who has passed over the Rainbow Bridge. Port Hunter lived in northern California. I never met him, but I was honoured to be able to communicate with him regularly and call him my friend.

His love of life, his sense of adventure and spirit of freedom always shone through. His life was full of fun and adventures. His mum was his rock, and PH was hers I think. They were inseparable, as often as possible being out on the hills and trails enjoying the sights and scents of the countryside. PH became ill over the last few years and soldiered on despite being poorly. He was determined to enjoy everything he possibly could at his mums side.

I patrolled in his honour today. I walked the fields and byways near where I live. I smelled the scents, admired the views and peered from the top of the hills just the same, as I know PH would be doing on his patrols. I even managed to chase a squirrel up a tree. I hope he would be proud of my efforts.

It is a privilege to know friends like PH. I never met him but I feel as if he was a good friend. We spoke on many things being good, bad or funny. Always polite, always approachable and always as happy as possible, he will be missed.

Farewell dear, sweet Port Hunter, travel well to the Rainbow Bridge. We shall meet in the future and be able to patrol together. In the meantime rest easy dear friend, for your time down here is done. Gone from our sight but never absent from our hearts. Always farewell and never goodbye.

I have sad ears.