Bobby’s Story (AKA The Bobster!)

I first met Bobby, a some what sad and bewildered Boxer cross, when his owners signed him over as they couldn't keep him as he didn't like their new puppy. I took him to Croft Kennels, the Vale's contract kennels. 

He was cared for by Croft for several months as for some reason he failed to catch the eye of prospective owners. Some dogs don't show themselves to their advantage in a kennel situation as they can suffer with kennel stress and become depressed and withdrawn despite the kennel staffs best efforts. Eventually he caught the eye of someone and was adopted as first and foremost a pet but with the view to possibly training him to be a Cadaver Search Dog (searching for bodies rather than live people), with Cardiff And Vale Rescue Association (CAVRA).

David, Bobby's new owner contacted me for training and I couldn't believe the difference in Bobby. His eyes and coat were shining with happiness and health and he so obviously adored David and I think that the feelings were mutual!

Bobby has successfully completed his Kennel Club Bronze Good Citizen Award and at present is training for his Silver Award. Everyone comments on how handsome he is and what a superb temperament he has with people and other dogs.

For me as a Dog Warden who collected Bobby and then as a Dog Trainer to see the chance he has been given and the progress he has made is truly touching. You couldn't wish for a nicer dog or a happier story. It shows just how good a 'recycled' dog can be when just given a chance.

Here are some 'photos of Bobby in his working uniform!

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Below left; Bobby with his Bronze Canine Good Citizen Award and right; Silver Award


 

 


"I can't thank Caroline and Cardiff Canine Citizens enough for the change in Bobby - until I met Caroline I wouldn't have thought he could have come such a long way in such a short time. Bobby has now passed his Kennel Club Silver Award and will hopefully be completing his Gold award later in the year. Bobby is well on his way to becoming an excellent Search Dog and that is testament to Caroline's training skills and techniques ."

David Wills (Bobby's Owner-May 2010)