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Wag and Bone Show
The Wag and Bone Show is just around the corner, and we share with you some of the stories that make this event the unique celebration it is.
DogCast Radio was invited to attend a pre-show photo shoot at world famous dog photographer Tim Rose's studio.
There we interviewed a variety of people involved with the show.
Wag and Bone Show originator and Dogs Today editor Beverley Cuddy comes as near to describing the phenomenon the show has become as anyone can.
The show celebrates all dogs, and it honours some of those with special stories, such as Cocker Spaniel Rupert. Rupert lives with Kerena and Jordan, who are both profoundly deaf.
When Jordan's father died Jordan stopped communicating in any way. Training Rupert has given Jordan the motivation he needed to start talking again. Hear Kerena telling Jordan and Rupert's moving story.
Rescue dogs play a big part in Wag and Bone, and in this episode you can hear how six gorgeous Shar Pei-Staffordshire Bull Terrier crosses from Battersea Dogs and Cats Home are each looking for a home.
During the photo shoot, it became clear that the show provides a welcome opportunity to celebrate the wonderful way our animal charities enhance lives of those they protect. We spoke to Tamara who runs The Alternative Animal Sanctuary, where Helga the GSD-Collie cross lives. Helga was recovering from an unfortunate start in life, when bad health nearly ended her life.
With the help of the Kennel Club Charitable Trust, Helga is able to maintain her mobility thanks to special carts shipped in from America.
There are other incredible stories, like Cheaz, the Staffie cross who survived forty days and nights in a full body cast, thanks to the devotion of staff at the PDSA.
The RSPCA found Border Collie Blue a loving home after his first family gave him up when they were expecting a baby. Blue's problems are compounded by the fact that he is deaf, although his new owners have helped him achieve success in training by using signs.
Kiki the Chihuahua needed a new home when his owner died. Dogs Trust rescued him, and contacted Steph Collis, a Chihuahua enthusiast who works at Battersea Dogs and Cats Home. Kiki is now receiving the specialist help he needs to make the long journey towards finding a new family.
His case highlights the way animal charities work together to ensure the best outcome possible for the animals in their care.
Hear about Buzz, a Shetland Sheepdog who travels in style - on a motorbike. He has a variety of talents, and together he and owner James are one of the great partnerships competing in the Pup Idol competition.
Training the "leave" command
We all want a well behaved dog, and one essential command for this is the leave command.
Delia Graham gives her expert advice on training this very important instruction. Delia is an instructor at Gwen Bailey's Puppy School, and both Delia and Gwen will be at the Wag and Bone Show in the Trick and Treat ring.
Listen to this vital advice, and you will never need to wrestle with your dog again.
Puppy Playtime
In Puppy Playtime you can hear Jenny's progress report on her Bichon Frise puppy, Star. How is toilet training going? How has Star settled in? How has Star taken to Buddy?
Buddy's diary
How has Buddy taken to Star? In Buddy's Diary, you can hear how Buddy's world has been turned upside down.
How does a dog who has been an "only dog" for three and a half years adapt to a newcomer? For Buddy, things will never be the same again - but is it a change for better or worse?
Other items
Plus, if you love DogCast Radio, you may well enjoy Hound TV. Hear from host Steven Pam, and check out this new Australian video podcast.