Lookin' good Gigot

Remember "Gigot"? Poor unfortunate rescue Bedlington who joined choc-labrador "Truffles" and long-haired chihuahua "Storm", in a family we meet regularly walking round the Rec. Poor chap was in a real mess back then, neglected to starving point, dirty, matted, encrusted in who knows what, and very very nervous (abused?), rescued by the RSPCA in Police presence.

You should see the old boy now! Just groomed yesterday, he's a picture of health and condition and is now even starting to romp around with we three, and raced around in silly circles playfully running up to Dad to say Hello, racing away again and bouncing at me. Dad commented to his Mum and Dad that he just looks better and better every time. They agreed - they reckon they see improvements every day, especially now in his social skills and play.

He is a dog to be proud of and a credit to them.

Dad noticed a small container fixed to the lab's collar, and asked about it (secretly worried that it might be one of those electric zappers people use for training). It was, in fact a similar idea, but the little hand held device triggers a release on the collar. The collar box contains a pressurised water cannister, and the release makes a short hissing squirt of water spray.

Truffles is, apparently, an inveterate scavenger, always hunting out discarded food and rubbish, and has it wolfed down before they can stop him, so she was putting on a good deal of weight. Now, when she goes to grab any scavenge, they "Pshhhh!" the sprayer and Truffles is all distracted and misses the food.

Mum and Dad were off for an afternoon's sailing on the sailing barge Greta tomorrow, but a gale is blowing, and Skipper/owner Steve, does not think they'll be going out. Dad is therefore making out like he's a salty sea dog, his life ruled by winds, tides and weather, blown hither and yon by the elements. Daft ha'porth!

Deefski