The Kennel Club Good Citizen Dog Scheme has always interested me, because it is not 'obedience'. Like all good ideas, the Scheme has grown and widened over the years, and certainly, six handlers and dogs from Callander, will remember taking and passing their Bronze Level at the Callander World Highland Games, last July.
Robbie (Leebren Rob Roy) and Hovis (Leebren Cinnamon Fizz) both had their Bronze and Silver Good Citizen, Angus (Cavallino Jaeger) had his Bronze, and at the end of June, 2001, my Robbie passed his Gold Level. According to Heidi Lawrence, The Kennel Club Good Citizen Dog Scheme Manager, Robbie is one of the first Cavaliers to pass the Gold.
Last year, Robbie also gained his Road Safety Diploma Silver Medal and Angus (my wee yo-yo) gained his Bronze Medal. Again, this is not 'obedience', but every day control. However, there are always those, who see no need for training and cannot see why you do it. "Oh, I don't do 'obedience with my dog, he's a pet." or "I couldn't make my dog do that." is the familiar comment. What they really mean is, they can't be bothered. Well, that's their loss, because I have had very practical and beneficial use from my dog training.
At the beginning of January, 2002, I slipped on the ice, breaking my right wrist, badly. I write this, still with the cast. Doing things one-handed, has been a challenge and it is amazing how innovative one can be.
But, managing the dogs, - not a problem. 'Come' on command and walk reasonably to heel - fine. Even 'picking up' and tying the bag, with both leads between the knees and the command to 'stand' - fine. Feeding - no problem - with the can on the floor between my feet, pull the ring top. With the command to 'leave' and the can still between my feet on the floor, fork food into the dish, within three inches of both dogs noses. Angus (now 2yrs) and Robbie (now 8yrs) sit and watch, but make no attempt to touch, although the noses are working overtime. Wonderful!
Now Angus has a new job. He helps me change the large duvet cover on my bed, by holding the corner, indicated, and pulling and shaking it, while I do the same. I do it with my good hand, not my teeth. When the 'postie' comes, Angus will help me, by holding the bottom of the envelope, while I extract the contents. He also helps me take my coat off, and is extraordinarily gentle. A Dog for the Disabled? I think so, and what a clever wee lad.
My 'boys' are not show Cavaliers, nor is their standard particularly high in obedience competition. But we do not live for the 'ring', that is for fun and a day out; we live at home, together and I am very proud of them both.
Back to our magazine index
