I first set eyes on Honey in May 2002 at the RSPCA Kennels at Warrington. At the time I was doing a monthly behavioural clinic and one of the members of staff insisted I go and look at this particular dog and her litter of ten puppies.
Honey had been brought into the centre with her ten three week old puppies and although her long golden hair was matted and her condition poor her kindness and trust shone through. Honey was destined to be special.
In June 2002 Honey began her new life when she arrived at the Cheshire Canine Centre with her coat completely shaved looking like a cross between a bald lurcher and 'tramp' from Disney's film lady and the tramp.
Over the months to follow Honey settled into her new home and began basic training. She adapted extremely well to the reward based methods although it became apparent that Honey had some unpleasant associations particularly on the recall as well she showed noise sensitivity.
It was necessary for desensitisation programs to be developed to reverse these negative associations and rebuild Honey's confidence. Life hadn't been the kindest to Honey however to the amazement to all that met her Honeys trust and kindness remained intact.
As the weeks went by the dog whose tail never stopped wagging developed from an ugly duckling to a beautiful swan, all the hard work had paid off and Honeys road to stardom had begun.
October 2002 saw the start of Honey's modelling career, her debut was made lying on a dog towel for a well known mail order magazine and in November she did a front cover photographic shoot for the 'Scotts of Stow' Christmas 2002 catalogue.
Honey has proven to be a brilliant model clearly loving every moment being the centre of attention In addition to the modelling in 2003 Honey became a member of the CHESHIRE DOG DISPLAY TEAM where she plays a leading role in the 'Honey I shrunk the dog' routine.
This entails her entering a 'Doodle Dog Washing Machine' which promptly goes wrong shrinking her into her co-star Millie a Lhaso Apso much to the surprise and delight of the audience..
Honey is also an asset on the static display stand at events where members of the public are invited to meet the dog and ask questions in relation to dog training and behaviour as well as the display team.
It is amusing when children come along and are relieved to see Honey back to her usual size there certainly are many children who believe in magic and even I cant help but wonder when I look at Honey and think back to that day when I first set eyes on her.
Honey in the past year has brought joy into many peoples lives including everyone attached to the Cheshire Canine Centre., she brings hope to rescue dogs with confidence problems proving that with patience, understanding and the correct behavioural information the sky really is the limit.
