Barking Mad North Bristol Local News – Winter 2017-2018 rainy, cold, muddy and snowy!
Little Rosie braves the mud in the local park
We have been busy arranging dog holidays and introducing ourselves to people who would like to host for us or to be customers. We can’t wait for some dry, sunny weather!
This winter seems to have been exceptionally cold and wet. Everywhere is a quagmire but that doesn’t get in the way of our hosts making sure the dogs have a great time outside, then get cleaned up and tucked up warm inside afterwards! Some of the dogs, like Maya, have enjoyed the snow, but Holly just endures it. It must be worse when your tummy is getting cold!
Maisie looking cosy.
Maya enjoying the snow
Holly by the frozen pond.
Local Charities we have supported-
We were delighted to be invited to the launch of the Bristol Animal Rescue Centre this January (Bristol ARC). It used to be the Bristol Dogs and Cats Home but now has a bright new logo and it has extended the range of animals it looks after. It is a separate charity; not, as many think, part of the RSPCA. We donated some food for the dogs and a box of chocolates for the wonderful humans who help them there. Ros met supporters including a dog walker who drives miles just to be able to walk a dog once a week. Everyone linked to the charity is dedicated. It is wonderful to have such a facility which was started over 130 years ago and is still fulfilling a need. There are always opportunities to raise funds for them, volunteer e.g. to walk dogs, and of course to offer a forever home for an animal that would fit into your family just perfectly.
: Staff at Bristol ARC, with two lovely rescued dogs
January also saw us visiting the Avon Riding Centre near Blaise Castle Estate to help support Bristol DAWGS who rehome greyhounds. There were various opportunities to show off your dog’s skills. I thought Holly would do well at the sprint. She, however decided to dawdle aimlessly before cottoning on to the fact that I was calling her and waving my arms madly. She then trotted rather than raced, so failed to impress the judges!
A few of the greyhounds who have been found new homes.
In February, John answered a call for help from Many Tears Rescue, which was expecting 13 dogs to be brought over from Romania in the next couple of days. They were asking for items that could be taken back to Romania or used by interim foster carers. We were pleased to put together a few things, which John took along. It was heart warming to see how many people had responded to the Facebook appeal. There are a lot of dog lovers around here!
Our contribution to Many Tears.
Our Main Charity for 2018 is Dogs for Good
In December, we launched our Dogs for Good campaign with a collection box and display at our anniversary celebration with our magnificent hosts. We will be collecting throughout the year. The UK wide network of Barking Mad Franchisees are aiming to raise enough to train an assistance dog. The puppies were born recently and ours will soon be named. It’s very exciting! Our puppy will one day be clever enough to help someone regain their independence. A real life- changer. Such a worthwhile cause.
Dogs for Good – Our chosen charity
In March, we met with other South West Barking Mad Franchisees to share our experiences over a lunch. It’s always fun to meet up, especially when some of our dogs come along too!
Enjoying a meal at The World’s End, near Taunton.
Dates for your Diary- do come along and say hello; and give whatever you can for Dogs for Good.
We hope to attend the following Shows this year:
12th May : Hanham Common Fayre
28th May: Stoke Gifford Fete and Dog Show
9th June: Mangotsfield Village Festival
10th June: Kingswood Fun in the Park
14th July: Frenchay Flower Show
15th September: Bark in the Park, Staple Hill ( awaiting confirmation )
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