It's not often that between us Gill and I can't sort out the Beasts, and even if we can't, there's always the lovely Jayne. But this week I was in France with work for two and half days (and if you think that sounds good, it's stuck in a business park for two and a half days), Gill had meetings that she knew were going to finish late, and the lovely Jayne was in Poole for half term. The Beasts would need to go into kennels for a couple of nights.

The obvious choice was White Lodge, and as I was flying from Brum it was almost not too much of a detour. We pitched up about half twelve (Claire kindly allowed us to arrive out of normal hours), and the Beasts went for a charge around in the paddock while we sorted out the paper work. As at any kennels I was asked if they were all up to date on their jabs. I said yes for three, but explained that the rescue centre we got Troy from were really slack and hadn't sent through his paper work. Claire muttered something about it being a shabby outfit or some such and asked who it was. I told her White Lodge; she had heard of them, and agreed to let Troy in.

Time to get the Beasts in. Kai and Jack were stupid/gullable/obedient (delete those not applicable), and went straight in the kennel. Not Monty and Troy, ohhh nooo. They were having none of it, and it took leads to get them in. I guess for them the last time it happened they ended up staying for a while. Once all were safely gathered in it was time for me to hit the road to the airport. Apart from an hours delay to change a wheel on the aircraft, the journey was pretty smooth.

Two days later, and it's back for the Beasts, arriving just after six. As anticipated they all went just a bit mad to see me; Jack going so nuts he didn't stop charging around to get a stroke for a couple of minutes.

Claire commented on how well they all got on, and no aggro about food. She thought Jack was funny as he always had a toy in his mouth - which he generally does at home, and was pleased to see that Troy had settled in so well. She did admit that if there had been room in her household she would have had Troy for herself. Seems he's another one that pulls the ladies - they say owners get like their dogs; I'm hoping it's true.

And I got Troy's paperwork at last. Good job too 'coz his jabs are due next month. So he really is ours now.

Two nights in kennels doesn't seem to have traumatised them on a permanent basis, which is a good job as they are back for four or five nights in a week and half (hence Act 1). I think Claire might be looking forward to having Troy back for a bit.