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Barking Mad North Bristol Dog Sitting Local News

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­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­Two great occasions to end 2019!

 

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Prince is an Assistance dog now!

 

 

We took over the North Bristol Franchise at the end of November 2015 and have celebrated each anniversary with our hosts at a pre Christmas festive gathering. This year we had an additional celebration when we visited the Dogs for Good Training Centre in Banbury to meet Prince, who was sponsored by all the Barking Mad Franchisees throughout the UK. He is now making an amazing difference to the lives of a six year old boy who is on the Autistic Spectrum, and his Mum and Dad who find life a little less stressful now.We thank every one of you who put money into our Dogs for Good boxes. You really and truly have helped to change a life. We hope you will continue to help us as we are now sponsoring Wendy, our second Dogs for Good puppy.

 

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Lucy demonstrating training

 

 

This photo is of Lucy the dog, who demonstrated how the dogs are trained; helped by a love of food!

There were several dogs like Prince, who had ‘graduated’ and they were brought along to meet some of the people who had sponsored them. It was fantastic to meet the Dogs for Good trainers, socialisers, regional organisers and office staff and to chat to others who had helped to sponsor them. Prince and his fellow ‘graduates, really enjoyed the attention too!

 

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Prince basking in glory!

 

 

At the beginning of December, we gathered with our hosts and some of their friends, and some dogs,at the Willy Wicket, where we were welcomed and looked after by the lovely helpful staff there for the second year running.

 

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Celebrating our 4th Anniversary

 

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Singer and Saxaphone

 

 

 

Our host’Family’ spans three generations and everyone gets along so well because we all have at least one thing ( a love of dogs ) in common. John had met Louise and John ( Sax in the City )

in the Summer, playing on Bristol Harbourside and asked if they would come and play at our Host gathering. They were delighted, and it made the evening go with a swing. They even let our youngest host join in and sing, much to her and our delight!

Between then and Christmas, we really enjoyed the company of this mischievous brother and sister. They are perfect guests, getting along well with each other and with everyone they meet.

 

 

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Two perfect pooches !

 

 

If you would like to host a couple of well behaved dogs like these two  now and again, we would love to hear from you ! Our hosts are a friendly bunch too!

 

 

September and October 2019

 

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Ros registering Albie and Marley

 

We come to your house to find out all about your dog, so that we can ensure they have fun whilst you are relaxing on your holiday. We were busy in September and October taking lots of dogs on holidays with hosts, who ensured they had a great time. Our hosts tailor the holiday to your dog’s likes: so walks in the woods, playing ball in the park, cosying up on the sofa or playing hide and seek your treats, keep your dog happy and feeling loved. Our hosts absolutely love to have a dog staying with them and really enjoy providing a home from home. It’s great when your dog can go back time and again to the same host because it is then like a second home and your dog and the host will know each other almost as well as they know their own family.

 

Barking Mad Bristol John Johnson Dog sitting home boarding

Sasha brought her favourite toy

 

Barking Mad Bristol John Johnson Dog sitting home boarding

Edie won’t put her ball down!

 

Barking Mad Bristol John Johnson Dog sitting home boarding

Bobbie loves his walks in the woods

 

Barking Mad Bristol John Johnson Dog sitting home boarding

Sasha loves to play outside as well

 

Summer Holidays August

Happy Dog, Happy Holiday, Happy You!

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I’ll just lie here and chew the ball. Too hot to chase it..’

 

 

Our hosts have really enjoyed having their doggy visitors to stay this August and our customers have had peace of mind, knowing their dog would be loved and cared for whilst they were on holiday.They have given us great reviews ( see Trustpilot, on the website).Most of the dogs are familiar friends who have been out before. Others are new friends now, with a lovely ‘second home’ to go to.

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Teddy and Poppy are now good friends.

 

 

So much more comfortable than a kennel; and constant attention from obedient humans!

 

 

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Pepper says ‘Play, don’t sunbathe!’

 

Our dogs LOVE their hosts! If you would like to host dogs like these, we would love to hear from you. Our customers’ dogs need holidays year round, so you can have a lovely holiday companion in the Spring, Summer Autumn and Winter! We match you with the dog most suited to your lifestyle and you choose when you are available.

 

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Hugo and his host are both cricket fans!

 

Your visiting dog comes with everything it needs to have a lovely time.

 

 

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Roxie brought her own cushion!

 

If you think your dog would like a tailor made holiday; in a home from home with one of our hosts; contact us to arrange a meeting so that we have time for a trial sleepover and you will then be able to book your next holiday with confidence.

 

 

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Heidi and her hosts loved the seaside.

A Tribute to our little buddy, Holly; 2007-2019

 

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Holly and Heffie in 2010

 

 

 

In March 2009 Holly was 12-18 months old and had been with two families who loved her but whose circumstances changed, meaning they could no longer keep her. One day when I was in a meeting at school with the Head and several colleagues, one of them suddenly excused herself and came back with a little dog that she plonked on my lap. I had previously agreed that I would give Holly a home; but had been given no clue as to when she would arrive. The marvellous Headteacher merely raised his eyebrows and we continued the meeting!

From that day onwards, Holly was ours. She came to cheer us up after first our two dogs and then my Mum had died. John and I loved Holly to bits and it was Holly who introduced us to Barking Mad because we wanted her to be looked after by people who would love her when we had to go to my son’s wedding. From then we  also hosted dogs that would get along with Holly. Holly starred in the video and she attended local Shows and host gatherings.

 

 

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Video advert for hosts

 

 

Holly loved life, was always thrilled when we came home and had great fun with her best friend Gus.

 

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Holly and Gus

 

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Holly and Gus

 

She also really enjoyed barking at cats and at anyone or any dog that passed the gate. She treated her Heffie toy as if it was a puppy and had to find a safe place for it after every evening meal. She also loved to be warm, so Summer would see her sunbathing and winter tucked up warm. She loved our grandchildren, especially when they sneaked treats to her!

 

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Holly, Heffie and her favourite ball

 

Holly had several health scares over the years, including two lots of cancer but she pulled through thanks to the skill of the Vets who treated her. In the last month, she grew noticeably thinner and couldn’t eat easily. When she was scanned, the Vet found a large tumour in her spleen that was described as ‘a ticking time bomb’. We had to make the final decision for her and arranged for the Vet to visit her at home. She was carried out afterwards in the Vet’s arms, like a baby. Her ashes have come back and she is now once again in our garden. She will forever be in our hearts.

Thank you Holly, for ten of the best years of our lives xxx

Early summer around Bristol

 

Have A Doggy Visitor Delivered To Your Home!

 

Throughout May and June John brought smiles to hosts’ faces and peace of mind to customers when he took each dog to its’ holiday host to have fun when the owner went on holiday. Barking Mad dogs LOVE their holidays because their usual routine is maintained, they have their favourite toys with them and they are spoilt by their hosts who arrange their time to give the dog lots of attention and love and some new places to explore.If you would like to host a friendly Barking Mad dog, please email or call us to find out more.

Ozzy Says, ‘let’s Play!’

 

Dylan Is Delighted ‘this Is More Comfy Than A Cone! Thanks, John!’

 

We do everything we can to make your dog’s stay as much fun as possible. When Dylan came out for his holiday, he was wearing a cone, but he kept bumping in to things, so John contacted his owner and purchased an inflatable collar to replace the cone which made him much happier!

DOGFEST WEST at Ashton Court 22nd, 23rd June

Saturday’s Best Of The West At Dogfest

 

We spent the weekend at Dogfest with fellow Barking Mad franchisees from around the region: Bristol/ South Glos;Lydney;Pontypool;Torquay and Plymouth;Exeter;Reading; S\&W Oxon;East Worcester;Hereford&Ludlow and represented other areas for those who couldn’t make it, including: Cornwall;Bath&N. Somerset;Cotswolds, Taunton.

 

The Paddling Pool Was Very Popular

 

Amanda(s&w Oxon) With Our Smallest Visitor

 

It was fantastic to meet so many lovely dogs and their owners from all over the UK, to enjoy the day together and tell them about the wonderful personal service we offer to every Barking Mad dog. We are all so proud of our fantastic hosts who devote their time to each visitor and who get so much joy out of doing so.

 

Lucy (bm Lydney) Judging Some Lovely Dogs

 

Lucy and some of the other franchisees had a difficult time judging; it was so hard to choose a winner because they were all so adorable!

 

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John and Holly demonstrated the photoframe

 

We raised some more money to train Prince and Wendy (Dogs for Good) with the photoframe and props and donations for bandanas and treats.

We regret that due to unforeseen circumstances, we can not now attend the festivals at Heathfest, Frenchay or Patchway. If you would like to meet us for a chat about becoming a host, please email john.johnson@barkingmad.uk.com

 

April flowers, showers and a heatwave!       

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Where’s that squirrel ??

Poppy stayed with us again recently and she and Holly had fun exploring Badocks Wood. They were most annoyed to discover the squirrels there are just as good at escaping up a tree as any locally!

We have had a busy month out and about marketing to find new hosts and we have signed up some more lovely doggies. We always need more hosts, so if you are considering it, please don’t be shy; get in touch and have a chat to find out what fun it is. John takes immense care to match you with the right dog, so that everyone has a fabulous time. We would particularly like to find hosts who would like bigger breeds; but anyone retired who is available for one or two weeks holidays for whatever choice of dog, will be extremely welcome! We have so many different breeds on our books and every dog is a great character. We love them all !

Here are some of the dogs who holidayed in April with our hosts.

 

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Frankie unpacked his ball as soon as he arrived!

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Sonny enjoyed another holiday

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Rosie and Lola love to get out and about

We hope to meet lots of you at the following local events:

8th June, Bradley Stoke Festival

22nd and 23rd June Dogfest at Ashton Court

6th July Heathfest at Bromley Heath

20th July Patchway Festival Community Fair, Scott Park, Patchway

February and March 2019

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Boycie, Trigger, Bailey And Holly Enjoyed Meeting Up Again At The Park.

 

February and March have been very busy months with lots of dogs enjoying time with our lovely hosts who offer a first rate ( 5 star ) home from home dog boarding holiday experience. We have also worked alongside a 16 year old student who came on work experience, we have been involved with two charity events and we have networked with fellow dog professionals and with groups who offer support for older people in the community.There is a great deal on offer to older people in and around Bristol and South Gloucestershire, including the marvellous opportunity to become a Barking Mad host with us!

 

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I’m Pleased That I Have Brought My Favourite Toy On Holiday!

 

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I’m Ready To Play!

 

We hope to be attending Mangotsfield on 8th June, Dogfest on 22nd and 23rd June and Heathfest on 6th July.

If you are thinking of becoming a Barking Mad Host, please come along- or better still, contact us now and you could soon be enjoying the company of one of our adorable pooches!

 

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Red And Beck Getting To Know Each Other At The Chapel Farm Rehab Networking Evening. Beck Is A Dogs For Good Puppy, Living With His Socialisers Until He Is Ready To Be Trained Like Arthur

 

 

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Red Demonstrating Physio At Chapel Farm Rehab.

 

Here are some quotes from current hosts and customers, who love being part of our Barking Mad ‘Family’. Our hosts are devoted to your dogs:

Happy Hosts say…

‘My wife and I have had dogs most of our married life and have a great love of them.Our last dog died suddenly after a short illness and we were so devastated and heartbroken we couldn’t contemplate having to go through that again. But we so missed the presence of a dog that we took every opportunity when we met a dog to make a fuss of it.

After several months our attention was drawn to a Barking Mad flyer in a garden centre looking for hosts and a friend suggested that this might suit my wife and myself. Anyway I got in touch with John and after a thorough vetting and explanation of what was involved we agreed to go ahead.

We have now been hosting dogs for about 9/10 months and really love doing this. It is an ideal situation for us as we get all the joys of a dog without the vets bills. We have had a great variety of dog and most of the dogs are lovely as they have been vetted as suitable for hosting by John. There is the odd dog that requires a bit more understanding and firmer handling but nothing too taxing.It has worked out perfectly for us and if you love dogs and have the right domestic situation then we can only recommend that you give dog hosting a try.’

 

John johnson barking mad dog sitting home boarding north Bristol

Noel Collecting For Dogs For Good With His Assistance Dog As Arthur, Who Has Enabled Him To Regain His Independence.

 

‘The reason we decided to host was because  we have had dogs in our lives for over 40 years.  We love dogs, although I have realised that I like certain types/breeds of dogs.  I prefer the smaller, affectionate breeds and as I do the majority of the caring for the dogs that come to stay with us, I get to choose the dog 😉  The last dog that we owned was a gorgeous Kerry Blue Terrier and she passed away in October 2007.As we were both working and extremely upset by her loss we decided that we wouldn’t get another dog.  At the end of 2016, we saw an advert about Barking Mad.  As I am still not well, we look after dogs that don’t shed so I don’t have to constantly clear up the dog hair, although I have never liked dog hair and all the dogs we have owned have been non shedding ;-)With Barking Mad we get to experience the enjoyment of having a dog but with no emotional, financial or lifelong commitment.  We get to love and cherish the dogs to bits in the moment and it works perfectly for us, because now physically with my health, I wouldn’t be able to look after a dog permanently.  It’s perfect for our doggy guest too, as I am home all the time and my husband is retired, although if I need to go out, we work it so they always have someone with them during their stay. Finally, we would recommend Barking Mad in a heartbeat. ’

‘We have been hosting dogs for 3 years now and absolutely love it. We get great enjoyment from engaging with the dogs, getting to know their individual personalities and their funny quirks, we love to see them enjoying themselves, whether it is running about in the park, playing with a ball in the garden, sniffing about on a long/short walk or just chilling out on the sofa. All the dogs have proved to be very good company for us. We enjoy the responsibility of caring for a dog and making sure it is happy and get huge satisfaction from their responses to us, their contentment and their trust. It is always nice when owners provide positive feedback when the dogs return home.

The reason for us joining up with Barking Mad was because we have always liked dogs and thought it would be a worthwhile thing to do when we retired – we liked the concept of a ‘home-from-home’ environment as opposed to kennels, so thought it was right up our street. We have the opportunity of getting lots of exercise and we like getting to know, and finding out, lots of different walks. We like the flexibility of being able to choose when to host a dog. We were also attracted by the idea of having professional back-up and support during the whole process.

We would highly recommend joining Barking Mad as a host to anyone who loves and cares for dogs.’

Grateful Customers say…

‘We would not hesitate to recommend Barking Mad for a pet’s holiday.
We’ve a longstanding relationship with them and they were tested to the limit recently when our senior Border Terrier became unwell during a visit.
We were away for three weeks in Australia with family. We received a message that our dog had been having seizures and was at the emergency vets.
To cut a long story short she’s fine and back home with us now but the care and support from everyone concerned, especially the hosts who changed their plans to give extra care to our dog, was exceptional. We can’t thank them enough’

‘Brilliant service,Thank you to John and Ros for giving us peace of mind that Poppy is well looked after and happy while we are on holiday. Poppy comes back so happy and relaxed. We recommend Barking Mad (John and Ros ) to everyone. Thank you again.’

‘Excellent service,very comfortable sending my pooch off to his sleepover,had photos whilst he was away and updates so happy to recommend this very professional service’

 

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Emma Britton From Bbc Radio Bristol At Blaise Castle Directing The Alive Appeal Dog Walk That Ros Attended With Holly And With Two Of Our Hosts With A Dog Out On Holiday.

January 2019

Let's Play! Barking Mad Dog sitting home boarding North Bristol John Johnson holiday for dogs

Let’s play again!

A new year started with new hosts, new friends and lots of familiar faces. We are looking forward to another happy year with our Barking Mad family! Our Hosts give a warm and loving welcome to each dog that stays, no matter what the time of year or what the weather is. We were delighted to receive our Licence from Bristol City Council, which confirms that we more than meet the new Regulations introduced in October 2018. We have always put the welfare of our customers’ dogs at the forefront of our business. We love to ensure that our dogs have the best tailor made holiday ever and that hosts have great fun with each visitor!

Matching Coats! Barking Mad Dog sitting home boarding North Bristol John Johnson holiday for dogs

Modelling our matching coats – Edie arrived with a coat that matched Holly’s, so we just had to do a photo shoot!

I Like This Rug Barking Mad Dog sitting home boarding North Bristol John Johnson holiday for dogs

Our dogs love to play indoors as well as outside and they all enjoy a snooze afterwards.

It reminds me of a little rhyme..

‘It’s nice to get up in the morning, when the sun is overhead.

It’s nice to get up in the morning-

But it’s nicer to stay in bed!

We are delighted to continue to support Dogs for Good. A collection at Tesco, Lime Trees Road, raised another £45 to go towards Prince’s training and to our new puppy, Wendy.

We hope to attend local fairs and festivals again this year and will add dates as soon as we have them confirmed.

We are always ready to welcome anyone who would like to host, so please get in touch. The more the merrier! If you would like me to come and chat to you or to a group, please contact me to arrange a date and time to suit.

Very Comfy Barking Mad Dog sitting home boarding North Bristol John Johnson holiday for dogs

I’m very comfy

 

Moving into Winter around Bristol

 

Barking Mad Bristol Home boarding dog sitting john johnson Irresistibly Cute, She Has Loving Owners And Adoring Hosts!

Irresistibly Cute, She Has Loving Owners And Adoring Hosts!

Lots of people looking for an excellent home from home dog boarding service have found Barking Mad North Bristol to be the best place for their lovely dogs. We have been delighted to meet some new dogs and to welcome back old friends. Likewise the dogs who have been to loving hosts before, can’t wait to pack their things and jump into John’s car!

Barking Mad Bristol Home boarding dog sitting john johnson Would Your Dog Like A Friend To Stay

Would Your Dog Like A Friend To Stay

 

Barking Mad Bristol Home boarding dog sitting john johnson Our Host Party Included A Quiz That Had Everyone Guessing

Our Host Party Included A Quiz That Had Everyone Guessing

 

Barking Mad Bristol Home boarding dog sitting john johnson Oscar Is Always Ready To Play

Oscar Is Always Ready To Play

 

Barking Mad Bristol Home boarding dog sitting john johnson Dog Bingo – Have We Got A Briard

Dog Bingo – Have We Got A Briard

 

Barking Mad Bristol Home boarding dog sitting john johnson Barney Loves To Play Ball Too

Barney Loves To Play Ball Too

 

Barking Mad Bristol Home boarding dog sitting john johnson A Host Walk At Pomphreys, Including Two Of Our Dogs Who Are A Brother And Sister That Rarely See Each Other. They Had A Lot Of Fun!

A host walk at Pomphreys, Including Two Of Our Dogs Who Are A Brother And Sister That Rarely See Each Other. They Had A Lot Of Fun!

We enjoyed celebrating Christmas with our families and wish all of you a peaceful, healthy and Happy New Year. We can’t wait to meet new hosts and new customers and owners in 2019!

Remember to book your dog in with us before you book your own holiday!

If you are a potential new customer, we will also need a spare weekend before your main holiday, for your dog to go on a trial sleepover with a host to ensure your dog is going to settle. Happy dog, happy holiday, happy you!

Look out for us in local cafes, garden centres and Shows in 2019. Contact us at any time, especially if you would like to become a Barking Mad holiday host!

September 2018, moving into Autumn

We explored Hermitage Wood, Ashton Court, at the beginning of the month. We really enjoyed the lovely trees, the wood carvings and especially the fact it was all so pristine. It is clearly visited by caring dog owners and other visitors. Superb views from there as well. We will be back again one day!

Holly In Hermitage Wood Barking Mad Dog Sitting Home Boarding North Bristol

Wow, these trees are big!

Our hosts have had more fun with our lovely visiting dogs. They are all great characters that put a smile on everyone’s faces!

Autumn Has Arrived Barking Mad Dog Sitting Home Boarding North Bristol

Edie at Mangotsfield Station

Flossie And Maddie Barking Mad Dog Sitting Home Boarding North Bristol

Mmmmm treats……..

Marley Under A Bush Barking Mad Dog Sitting Home Boarding North Bristol

Marley playing Hide and Seek on her holiday

We met lovely people at The Willowbrook Centre on 28th September who liked the idea of having dogs to stay, or sending their dogs to stay with our fantastic hosts. We also raised £26.64 FOR Dogs For Good, bringing our total to £250.

Summer Holidays – August 2018

Ready for a lovely cream tea at Wyevale Garden Centre, Keynsham_with current and potential hosts

Ready for a lovely cream tea at Wyevale Garden Centre, Keynsham_with current and potential hosts

We have been delighted to help so many people have relaxing holidays, knowing their dog was in our safe hands. Once again, our fantastic hosts have welcomed your dogs into their homes and had a lot of fun. They have sent photos to us to pass on to you and show you that your dog is having a great time. During the heatwave the dogs were walked much earlier and later when it was cool enough. We were able to keep the dogs cool in the heat with chill mats, chill jackets, paddling pools, nice cold tiles to lie on and lots of cool water to drink.The weather has been amazing, but it has been a relief recently to have some rain and slightly lower temperatures, both for dogs and humans.

We have really appreciated the glowing TrustPilot Reviews from our customers, which we pass on to the hosts. We are all proud to give a really good service.

Our customers’ dogs become part of the Barking Mad Family and are truly loved by us and our hosts. We were all very sad to have to say goodbye to three of our senior doggy friends: Chico, Rosie and Fleur have all gone over the Rainbow Bridge recently and left a huge hole in our hearts.

We ran two events in August, at our local Keynsham Wyevale Garden Centre at Hicks Gate, Bristol. It’s a really attractive garden centre and gift shop with helpful friendly staff and good parking, not to mention the freshly prepared food in the café! We are grateful especially to Katy Bevan the café manager, who baked delicious scones and who made special nibbles and lemon squash for our visitors on 21st, when we held a Host Event for our current hosts and anyone who wanted to meet us to find out if hosting was their cup of tea and to enjoy a complimentary cream tea. It was a lovely occasion as new and old hosts were able to get to know each other.

On 15th, we had a stall there, just for Dogs for Good, to raise more money to train Prince. We raised £45 from generous customers.

Rosie Blanning, the South West Regional Organiser for Dogs for Good, lent the smart tablecloth and literature. She also arranged for Puppy Socialisers to bring their puppies along. Mel brought Pepper, who is Prince’s brother. At five and a half months old, he was very excited and enjoyed showing how good he can be ( rewarded with little bits of his kibble each time). He is too young to be out long, so he came for a while in the morning.

Prince’s brother Pepper came along with his Puppy Socialiser, Mel

Prince’s brother Pepper came along with his Puppy Socialiser, Mel

In the afternoon, Sue and Mike brought Darley, who is 13 months old, so more used to different places than Pepper, and a lot calmer.

Darley is 13 months old and learning fast.

Darley is 13 months old and learning fast.

The third ’puppy’ was actually a fully trained dog called Norton. He is four years old and is taken to meet potential clients to show what he can do ( take off jackets, help with the laundry, put footrests down on wheelchairs etc ).

Norton is fully trained.

Norton is fully trained.

All the Puppy Socialisers around the country know each other and Mel, Sue and Mike have been helping the charity for years.They explained how dramatic the difference can be to peoples’ lives once they get a dog. A person with MS for example, unable to leave the house, can now get in a wheelchair and race along the beach with her dog. I’m so glad we are able to help raise money to train Prince who will one day be transforming a life. If you would like to donate online, Click here! and to see Prince training, Click here

Summer Fun in North Bristol – July 2018

John, Lisa and Ros welcoming new hosts and customers to Barking Mad North Bristol

John, Lisa and I enjoyed a rather hot day on 14th July at the Frenchay Flower Show. The water bowl for visiting dogs was very welcome, and most were also happy to have a little treat as well!

Alan seeking shade from our gazebo

Our stall was between Alan’s selling cacti and The Avon Wildlife Trust selling herbs and native wildflowers and seeking new members. It was great to wander around the stalls and meet skilled local crafts people, local charities such as the Rotary members, say hello to Alpacas, admire the traction engine, the flower arrangements… so much on offer and such a friendly, social occasion.

We were pleased to meet so many people who were interested in becoming hosts or customers for Barking Mad. Having a dog to stay now and again is great fun, and customers love to know their dog will be loved and treated as one of the family in a home from home.  Everyone agrees it is a great idea!

Raising money to train Prince

We raised £34.64 for Dogs For Good, with the Guess the Name of the toy dog, and a raffle where a £1 donation won a prize every time. We are very grateful for the generosity of those who donated to train Prince to become an Assistance Dog. We were amused when Christine from the Hawk and Owl trust won the little Snowy Owl soft toy! She was also lucky enough to guess the name of the toy dog!

On another hot morning, we went to Snuff Mills with a couple of our hosts and the dogs they were caring for. It was much cooler there and the water was so low we could see one or two poor fish looking to find deeper water. The dogs loved splashing about. Even Holly had a little paddle. It’s a great place to take dogs, whatever time of year.

Marley and Maddy made friends at Snuff Mills

Where to find us in August

Wednesday 15th August: we will be collecting on behalf of Dogs For Good, 10am-3pm at the lovely Wyevale Garden Centre, Hicks Gate, BS31 2AD ( near the Bath Road Park and Ride).  Please come along and help us raise money to train Prince to be an Assistance Dog.

Monday, 20th August: we will be at the Café to tell you about hosting, 12pm–3pm.

Is hosting your cup of tea?

If you would like to have a friendly dog come to stay with you now and again, we will treat you to a cream tea! Please RSVP for 20th if you would like to host, so that Katy can ensure they bake enough scones! Email john.johnson@barkingmad.uk.com or Facebook Barking Mad Dog Care North Bristol.

Recent TrustPilot Reviews, July 2018

A brilliant service
A brilliant service, we couldn’t do without Barking Mad! All the hosts are so kind and it’s lovely to know your dogs are having as good a time as you are! Mrs Legg

Lovely holidays for dogs with Barking Mad
Kassie is a Maltese and she loves her Barking Mad holidays, this was her 5th year. She came home very happy and contented, it was lovely having the email updates of her adventures with her lovely host Linda. I will always use and recommend Barking Mad, in fact Kassie will be having another holiday with them again later this year. Karen

 

Spring into Summer – North Bristol’s local news June 2018

brand new baby william, not as cute as the dogs though.

William, Ros’ latest grandson, born in May

We have had a very busy time, meeting up with some of our hosts, seeking more hosts, raising money for Dogs for Good, registering new dogs , taking dogs to and from their holiday hosts and attending local events. It has been fantastic to meet so many people and such lovely dogs at these events. They are always such happy, family occasions and the huge variety of dogs walking around all get along too.

 

We had stalls at Hanham Common Fayre, Mangotsfield Festival and Kingswood Fun in the Park, where we were entertained all morning by the drummers and dancers. We also managed to snatch a day away to meet Ros’ new grandson, who finally arrived in mid May! He is cute, but maybe these dogs are even cuter!?

prince our litle assistance dog in training with dogs for good

Prince, off to explore the big wide world.

benjamin the chihuahua with Barking M<ad north Bristol

Benjamin, one of our most recent customers, who has already enjoyed a Barking Mad holiday with a lovely host.

On 10th May we held a coffee morning at Chief Trading Post in Oldland Common for our current hosts and anyone wishing to learn about hosting. Chief Trading Post is so quirky, we love it. The staff, especially in the coffee shop, made us very welcome. We were very pleased to welcome one new lady, who has already looked after one dog and to add another who was so keen that she wanted to sign up ready for a few years time when her daughter will be 5 years old!

host coffee morning with Barking MAd Bristol

Coffee morning with our hosts and dogs.

stall at barking amd bristol.

Lisa and Ros manned the Stall

They were at Hanham Common Fayre, Mangotsfield Festival and Kingswood Park and really enjoyed explaining how we arrange holidays with hosts for our customers’ dogs. They were delighted and grateful that so many also played Guess the Name of the Dog to raise money to train Prince, the Dogs for Good puppy being sponsored by Barking Mad. We hope that one day he will be able to support someone to have a more independent life, like the Black Labrador in this photo.

dogs for good offer a helping paw to this boy in his wheelchair

My best friend!

We take pride in ensuring our customers’ dogs have  really great holidays with their loving hosts. These three have all had a fantastic time. Walking in the woods, playing ball on the Common and playing with their favourite toys when they get home. We match each dog and host carefully. Which dog would you choose if you were a host?

enjoying the outdoors with barking mad bristol

I love exploring

cockapoo loves his elephant at barking mad bristol

I love my elephant!

black spaniel, ready for a game of fetch

Ready for a game of Fetch!

Our next Event is the Frenchay Flower Show on 14th July, 12.30-5.00pm; another great local occasion, with fun for all the family; not just those with green fingers! We hope to see you there. Come and have a chat, and please play  Guess the Name of the toy dog, donating to Dogs for Good. We look forward to seeing you there!

FOR MORE INFORMATION ON BARKING MAD NORTH BRISTOL CLICK HERE

Barking Mad North Bristol Local News – Winter 2017-2018 rainy, cold, muddy and snowy!

Rosie enjoying her barking mad holiday.

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 on her barking mad holiday cosy on the sofa.

Maisie looking cosy.

Maya in the snow enjoying her barking mad home from home holiday.

Maya enjoying the snow

Holly enjoying her holiday wrapped up in her coat on her barking mad holiday.

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.

Barking mad North Bristol supporting rescue dogs.

: 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!

barking mad dogs home from home dog sitting service

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!

Barking mad many tears contribution.

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 the chosen charity of barking mad north bristol

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!

Barking mad Fracnhisees maeet up to discuss lots of doggy holidays.

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 )

FOR MORE INFORMATION ON BARKING MAD NORTH BRISTOL CLICK HERE

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