BeastBlog

Six Weeks - Six Hens

2009-03-08T14:48:00.002Z

I hadn't expected to do a post about Little; this one I had planned.

Back in Jan six new girls came to stay having been rescued from Leicestershire. They are called Uhura, Deanna, Kira, Jadzia, B'Elanna, and Kes; the Trekkies among you will instantly recognise the names. Thanks to a comment about the meaning of Uhura's name I did a bit of research, and it turns out they are all real names:

Uhrua
Uhrua: Freedom (derived from the Swahili word uhuru)

Deanna
Deanna: Divine (Latin)

Kira
Kira: Dark Lady (Celtic)

Jadzia
Jadzia: Princess (Polish)

Kes
Kes: Chaste (An old proto-Indo-European word meaning to cut or divide, and is the root of our word chaste)

B'Elanna
B'Elanna: Sun Ray (Greek), Elanna being derived from Helen, and of course Helen of Troy ran off with Paris; one wonders if the creators of Voyager being a bit clever.

The first thing I noticed when they arrived was just how healthy the original girls looked; you kind of forget the state they were in when they first arrived.

The new girls ranged from B'Elanna who had a bald bum and neck, through Kes who while she had feathers was (still is) soooo tiny, through to Jadzia who apart from a pale comb and face looked perfect.

Kes I didn't think would make it. She seemed to spend so much time asleep. To give her a chance she came indoors for a few days. I'm glad to say she has made it.

As the weather was cold and we were due the snow I got the girls some coats, and special thanks to Maggie Turton and the other ladies at Blisworth WI for arranging them for me. Maybe the girls might have got by without them, but I'm sure they kept warmer with them during some bitterly cold days.

Kira

Kes

Uhura

Kira

Introducing new girls is an eye opener. Those placid friendly ladies you've had for a while turn into harpies bent on destruction. However, over the course of a couple of weeks things calmed down and now everyone gets on fine.

Kira, Deanna and Jadzia

B'Elanna in the Snow

At first the new girls would stay in the run under the coop. After a few days they ventured into the extension run and after about two weeks or so started exploring the area I have fenced off by netting. When the weather finally got better and I let them free range the old hands (wings?) were out like a shot; the new girls - despite having been able to see the garden would not pass the netting. Until that is they realised that treats are served on the lawn. Now everyone free ranges and races down the garden when the back door opens.

I get asked quite often how greyhounds and hens get on. I think this photo answers that question.

Troy and Jack with the girls

I have seen it with dogs, Monty, Troy and Rosie in particular, and it is just the same with ex-battery hens: seeing them become the creatures they were always supposed to be; watching them as they learn their natural ways and enjoy what it is they do and being what they are. There is a real pleasure in seeing chickens that have spent a year unable to stretch their wings lying out in the early spring sun wings outstretched and watching them scratch at the ground then inspect to see what they may have uncovered. If you have ever thought about having hens do get some ex-batts; they are brilliant.

B'Ellana Sporting New Feathers

Little - RIP

2009-03-08T14:18:00.002Z

Sad to say that Little has gone to great chicken coop.

Just before Christmas she went to the vet as she was very listless, however she seemed to recover from that. Yesterday, just before I took The Beasts out, I gave the girls their afternoon treats and noticed Little was missing; I found her hunched up in the coop. I took her indoors and gave her water and yoghurt, but sadly on returning from our walk she had died.

Little when she arrived

Little was named because she was the smallest of the bunch and, as you can see, did not have too many feathers; she was also at the bottom of the pecking order and went out of her way to avoid everyone else.

Little - a recent picture

But she turned into a beautiful golden coloured lady with dapples on her neck and became immeasurably more confident in herself and hung around with the others, Babs, Bunty, Ginger and Penny.

I'm glad she had 10 months of freedom.

Guess Where I Went Yesterday

2009-03-06T12:19:00.001Z

Summink was goin' on; I had a bath on Wednesday, dad reckoned I 'ad to be spotless - for what?

For what? I'll tell yer for what. Cop yer peepers on this:

Special Dog Admission Ticket to Crufts

Yep, an admission ticket to Crufts for a Special Dog - that'll be me then. Me an'dad were there doin' a couple of stints on The Blue Cross stand.

Dad and me on The Blue Cross stand

Well, I fought I'd died an' gone 'eaven; tell yer wot, if you want a cuddle get yerself to Crufts. There are 'undreds, no fousands, of 'umans there an' pretty much every one of 'em stops and gives yer a cuddle.

'Course, we weren't there just so's I could have cuddles. We was there to tell people about the Children's Educational Program wot The Blue Cross run and The Beastly Beasts and loads of other dogs are part of. Loads of people fought that it was a great idea, and while they were finkin' about it they would give me a cuddle.

So me an' dad did two stints on the stand. When we pitched up Oskar was there with 'is 'umans. Oskar is a special guy 'coz he looks after 'is mum.

In between we went an' 'ad a gander round the show. OK, we've been to shows like the Gap Show, but this is bigger than them like as in it is 'uuuge!! And it goes on for four days!!

While we was 'avin' wander we bumped into Skye. He'd just got second place in a competition and we found out later on he got first in another - nice one Skye.

Dad of course 'ad to go an 'ave 'is Wolfhound fix an' we met a lovely lady who does wolfhound and greyhound rescue in Canada.

Then it was time for a bite to eat, but before that dad needed to go to the loo. Now, I know it sounds weird, but 'umans don't just 'ave a wee up fings, they go into special rooms to do it. Problem was I weren't allowed into the special room wiv dad, so we 'ad to get a security bloke to 'ang on to me so dad didn't 'ave to 'ang on if yer get my meaning.

Me Wiv Security

Then it was food. We both 'ad an 'ot dog each; tasty they were too. And I managed to blag extras off a couple of other people who weren't going to eat all theirs; I reckon I 'ad two 'ot dogs all togevver - result. Then back to The Blue Cross stand and more cuddles.

Me and 'Uman Puppy Quein' for Grub

Nearly everyone said 'ow handsome I was and loads of people asked 'ow old I am and seemed amazed that I'm 9½, saying I looked much younger and was dead fit for a dog my age - flattery of course gets you everywhere. Lots of people said that greyhounds are the best ever dogs - can't disagree there can I? Some people asked if we make good pets; 'course we do - though the word is companions; pets is for yer lesser beings.

As we were going we bumped into Sarah and Linda from White Lodge, that's when we 'eard about Skye's 1st place. We 'ad a rattle wiv them and then it was time to go 'ome. Even then we got stopped loads of times so people could say hello.

Yours T
Thanks to Peter Rostron for this pic

I 'ad a great day. I reckon we told a fair few people about the work of The Blue Cross and got some dosh in the tins, and told some people about greyhounds. If you were one of the people wot gave me a hug, put some dosh in The Blue Cross tins or gave me a bit of your 'ot dog - fanks. Maybe see you next year.

My First Home Check

2009-02-28T17:18:00.001Z

Dad always takes someone when he does a home check as he reckons if they like the home it's OK. Usually it's Kai and/or Jack that get to go, but today it was Mack and me. Mack was up for it, but, well, even now I'm still not sure about new places. I know dad wouldn't let anything horrible happen, but I just like being at home (or on holiday).

Anyway, we went to a place called Bedford to do a home check for Greyhound Gap. It's a bit of a way from home but the lady that normally does the home checks for Gap there can't do them right now as she is just about to have her own human puppy. So we turned up and dad rang the bell. When the door opened Mack stuck his nose straight in which I thought was a bit rude.

We went into the garden and the two human puppies made a fuss of Mack and me while dad had a chat. Then we went indoors so dad could go through the list of questions and we got some treats which was nice. Well, Mack was really rude; talk about make yourself at home - straight on one of the sofas, not so much as a by your leave. Luckily the the people didn't mind but dad told him off and got him off. While dad did his bit the human puppies carried on making a fuss of us and then asked if they could take Mack and me for a walk, just in the garden. Now, I'm really not that keen on walking with anyone other than dad and really don't like it when I can't see him, but dad said I should go so I did, and it was OK and we went exploring round the house and the garden. When we got back the humans were still chatting so I had a lie down while Mack pestered people for stroke, and he got away with it.

It turns out the reason we were there for Gap was because a couple of years ago they met a lady out on a walk with a Gap greyhound and they liked the dog and remembered about Greyhound Gap. Just goes to show, what you do and say today might make a difference in the future, and hopefully what that lady said means a hound will have a home. And they said they liked black hounds - well, what can I say; we are handsomest of them all.

So we said to dad that we liked the people (anyone that likes black hounds is OK by me) and that they would make good humans for a hound. And as for me, it's another thing I've done and it wasn't as bad as I thought it would be.

1st Lubenham Brownies

2009-02-26T19:25:00.000Z

Me an' Rosie went and did a gig for the 1st Lubenham Brownies this evenin' on be'alf of The Blue Cross. Brownies it turns out are female 'uman puppies wot is younger than 10 (that's 'uman years) and is looked after by a Braan Arl (that's the bird - not the beer) what is really a grown up 'uman and not a bird at all. Confused?

So anyway, we pitches up an' the Brownies all sit down and wait for us to get our act together, and dead polite they was too. Rosie seemed to 'ave a bit of a thing about Braan Arl, as in she seemed to fancy 'er.

Dad introduced himself an' me an' Rosie an' you could tell which of the Brownies 'ad dogs of their own an' who didn't just by lookin' at 'em. So then dad got 'em split into two groups and each group 'ad to come up wiv as many fings as they could fink of wot animals need to be 'appy livin' umans; you know, food, water, love, that kinda stuff. And they was dead good at it an'all, though poo pickin' wasn't their fave idea.

Then it was me an' Rosie's turn. Dad told the Brownies that when they cam to say 'allo they should 'old their 'and out so we could sniff it then give us a stroke then if they wanted to give us a treat an' he showed 'em how to put it on their 'and an' old it flat so we wouldn't nibble fingers - like we would, not. The ones what had their own dogs just came up for a cuddle no problem but you could tell a couple of the uvvers were a bit leary. Leary, of me an' Rosie - I ask yer? Still, our charm won 'em over and I reckon everyone gave us a cuddle which was good.

Then we just 'ad a bit of a rattle wiv the girls. They 'ad loads of questions about us and the rest of The Beastly Beasts and dogs and they told us about their dogs and one lass told us about people painting poo, what sounds a bit weird if you ask me.

When the parents turned up for their puppies Braan Arl reckoned they was all gobsmacked at 'ow quiet and well be'aved the girls were. All I can say is Rosie and me fought they was great an' we a good larf this evenin'.

My First PAT Visit

2009-01-20T16:45:00.004Z

Done it, my first PAT visit, and it's just like the others said - brilliant. Me an' Jack met Pat - our PAT organiser - at the desk at St. Andrews Hospital, then we went to see the people that sort out visitors so dad could get a badge that means he's like allowed in the place. All the people in the office thought we were really nice.

Then we went to do our real visit. Plan was to go out for a walk with one of the ladies staying here; this was Alice (not her real name of course 'coz that wouldn't be fair) that Mack and Troy met just before Christmas. So off we went, Jack with Alice, me with Dad, then there was Pat and a lady to look after Alice if needs be like. Jack was dead good and walked along nicely with Alice - Pat said he was the perfect dog for her.

The others had said about how it was nice seeing people smile and you could tell Alice was dead chuffed to be out with Jack, and when we got back to the ward she walked Jack in and showed him to everyone and you should have seen the smile on her face; if it 'ad gone any further round the top of her head would have come off she were that happy. One of the nurses took some pictures of Alice an' Jack and me with one of the other patients. We'd love to be able to show you them, but for pretty obvious reasons we can't.

Then we went to see some of the other people there. Some of them wanted to stroke us and some wanted to give us treats; it's dead 'ard work being a PAT dog y'know.

Then we sat down with the boss nurse and she and Pat and dad had a chat. It turns out that this is going to be our ward and we are going to be their dogs - which is cool. Seems they've been wanting dogs to visit for ages and so the plan is we are going to go for a walk with people when we come to visit then go and see the people who didn't come out with that day - wouldn't want them to miss out on the chance to give us a treat now would we?

Incident with Rosie

2009-01-14T17:30:00.002Z

Rosie won't tell you about this, but I will.

Yesterday we were out at our usual place, Salcey Forest, when something happened with Rosie.

Everyone was off-lead in a place where if I've seen two other people in all the years I've walked my dogs at Salcey that's about it. Kai, Mack and Rosie had gone ahead on a mission and Mack had just returned at full pelt. I could hear Kai and Rosie and then they appeared round the corner in typical lurcher style - running, bumping, snarling and generally having a good time.

Then it happened.

We were at a spot were the track takes a 90 degree bend, at 45 degrees there is another track that goes nowhere; it was latter where Kai, Mack and Rosie had gone on their "mission". From around the corner of the main track appeared two Weimaraners; Kai and Rosie were between me and them.

I gathered the greyhounds to me and called out the owner of the Weimaraners that "the big girl was a bit timid". "The Big Girl" had now dropped to the floor typical lurcher ready to pounce stance. I confess I was expecting at least a snarl and hoping for nothing worse. I was to be "disappointed".

The guy called his two and I called Rosie. With a perfect demonstration of selective deafness everyone ignored their humans and proceeded to introduce themselves in the usual way, then bits sniffed each party continued on their walk.

So the "incident" was that there was no incident; Rosie was the perfect lady and behaved impeccably. I have to say I was very pleased, rather proud of her, and extremely relieved.

She doesn't get carte blanche just yet, but this was a huge step forward - for her and me.

New Year Day Walk

2009-01-02T11:04:00.001Z

Yesterday we went of the White Lodge New Year day walk at Beacon Hill; we like Beacon Hill and today is was dead pretty with everything covered in rime. It was cold but we were nice and warm in our Greyt Sweaters and pretty much everyone else had coats on.

Frosty Trees

There were loads of hounds and humans there (everyone in the picture was with us) and a few people asked what was going on; another chance to tell the story of greyhounds.

Crowds

As is often the way at White Lodge Walks dad gave most of The Beastly Beasts away; Lucy went off with this young man:

Lucy and her Toy Boy

Mack walked with his matching mate Jasper and Jack teamed up with Jasper's sister Lulu:

Jack and Lulu

And Kai and Monty went off with my namesake - Rosie's - family; that left just Troy and me with dad, but we managed OK.

While we were walking up the hill - and when we got to the top - lots of people said how different I was from when I first arrived with The Beastly Beasts and how relaxed I was; it's true, I am, and it's really nice that people notice. I even walk side by side with hounds I've not met before 'coz, well, we're all here for the same like thing aren't we; though I didn't like when someone sniffed my bum, but like dad said - I sniff other peoples bum so ?.

More Frosty Trees

Even though Kai and Monty were looking after other humans, every now and then they waited for me and Troy just make sure we were OK - thanks guys, but we can mange you know; dad's pretty well trained.

At the top we had even more people come and join us - Max and Tiny were there. Poor old Max broke his leg like - well, worse than I reckon - Monty did and is only just getting back into things. And Jackie (who I've met at Greyhound Gap shows) came along with her two new charges - this is one of them:

Jackie's Whippet

And while on the subject of newbies:

Tai

Tia is helping Suggs (more in him in a mo) look after Linda and Dave.

Poppy

Poppy has gone to live with Caleb and Rudi.

Back to Suggs. Suggs is like our Monty used to be (still is to some extent) - dead shy of everyone but a lon at home. We always stop somewhere on the walks and that's time for treats and stuff - everyone shares but Suggs would never take a treat - not even liver cake - from dad. Until today.

This is everyone at the top of Beacon Hill.

Everyone

At the top Troy found a young human lady that needed looking after so he walked down with her, leaving just me in charge of dad for the first time ever - weren't too bad; he's pretty well behaved.

Frosty Tree

Back at the bottom it was time for some more treats; the perfect end to a lovely walk.

Happy New Year to everyone from all The Beastly Beasts.

A Look Back at 2008

2008-12-31T19:55:00.001Z

2008 has been really eventful year for The Beastly Beasts; here's some of the highlights.

January

Kai:
January saw The Beastly Beasts on the New Year day and White Lodge walks; on the White Lodge Walk we met Cai.

Kai and Cai

February

Kai:
This we went somewhere new for a walk and Rosie added Bronwyn to her fan club.

Bronwyn and Rosie

Monty:
We also all managed to donate blood at the same session for the first time.

March

Troy:
A bit quiet this month. We did get to see the fireman rescue a dog from Watermead; an event that luckily turned out OK for everyone concerned.

Firemen

April

Monty:
By contrast, April was full of things. Not least of those as far I was concerned is that Mr. Onyet said my broken leg was better and I was free to run around again. Took me a while to get back up to speed and I'm not as fast as I was, but it was good news.

Rosie:
I started skool. Dad said I was a clever girl but I was to go so I could meet lots of new dogs, which I do. Most weeks it's quite good fun, others it's not so I lie down a lot.

Kai:
Loads of us went to Coombe Abbey. Dad got us some ice creams and what do you know, everyone else got one too. And Aunty Claire lent her scooter to a girl that had hurt herself and couldn't walk.

Ice Cream

Troy:
We went on 'oliday!!! Monty was 'appy 'coz he'd been told he was OK to 'ave a run; Rosie was 'appy 'coz she got to see Uncle Trevor and didn't 'ave to wear a muzzle; bofe were 'appy 'coz they could watch the cats; everyone was 'appy 'coz the wevva woz wunderful and the beaches brilliant.

On Holiday

And best of it woz, we woz commin' back latea in the year!!

May

Jack:
We went an' spoke to de Scouts an' de Cubs at de 49th Northampton. Dey was great an' we had a great toime. And only dis month we met de grand-parents of one of de lads dat was dere an' dey said deir lad had a wunderful toime - dat was noice of dem.

Troy and Cubs

Chris:
I found out about the plans to introduce Dog Control Orders in Northampton. One clause, clause 4, would forbid walking more than six dogs at once - not much use to me then.

Of course I am not against Dog Control Orders per se; indeed I believe they should "do what they say on the tin", i.e. be orders than ensure people control their dogs. But I do not believe that six = in control and seven = out of control; there are many people we meet that can not or will not control the one or two dogs they have with them. By contrast The Beastly Beasts get many complements about how well behaved they are and everyone I have ever met with many dogs controls them.

Loads of people rallied round and sent their views to the council, and while the Orders are still to be discussed at Cabinet - so clause 4 may yet be made law (though I have a cunning plan in the event that that happens), I'd like to thank everyone that wrote to the council for their support.

Rosie:
On the White Lodge Walk this month we met Rosie.

Rosie and Rosie

And I went back to see Aunty Mandy who put me up for a bit before I cam to stay with The Beastly Beasts. She was dead pleased to see me again and said I looked really happy; which I am.

Lucy:
May is the early Gap Show an' like most Gap Shows it wasn't the weather to be wearin' yer dippers. Saw me old mate Hooch though.

Hooch

Mack:
We 'ad soom new arrivals - the hens. Monty and me were quoite interested in them to staart with loike, but they are feisty girls and now we give them a woide berth.

Hens

I should say they luke noothin' loike this now; they've got feathers and a real attitude.

June

Jack:
De White Lodge Walk was at de Rutland Water. I spent de day with a grand chap called Charlie.

Me and Charlie

Monty:
The Blood Bank ran out of blood; well, nearly. Anyways, it was close enough that they called us and asked if they could come and see us to get some. So rather than us having to go PPBuk, PPBuk came to us; neat.

Troy Being Swabbed

Only thing was my enzyme levels were back up and I've been told I can't donate any more.

July

Troy:
We went to the races; 'uman races. Bit of a turn around that one.

Kai:
Me, Jack, Troy, Mack and Rosie did our PAT assessments, and passed. Dad said he was really proud of us.

Lucy:
We were featured in the Pet Blood Bank UK news letter, which was pretty neat.

Pic for the Newsletter

Mack:
I celebrated my first year with The Beastly Beasts.

August

Monty:
The White Lodge walk came to Northampton; we showed everyone some of our favourite place - Salcey Forest.

Rosie:
And I celebrated my first year with The Beastly Beasts.

September

Chris:
I helped with the transport of this little man - Dexter.

Dexter

The really good news is that he is stopping with Elkie in Bristol - for ever.

Mack:
Three shows this month. The first wun was ower local - Northants Greyhound Gala. Oi did all roight; won moi class and made it into the Best Dog In Show round. Didn't win that though.

Me in the Best Dog In Show Round

Rosie:
Our next show was the autumn Gap Show. This was my third Gap Show and I thought it always rained at them; today it didn't.

And I got 3rd place in the Prettiest Bitch class, and Jim Greenwood said I looked happy in my pack - which I am.

Troy:
Next up was the RGT Greyhound Gathering in Nottingham. Don't get us wrong; great day aart, lots of fab 'ounds araarnd and the RGT, along wiv uvva rescues, do stonkin' work to get 'ounds into 'omes. But did the industry 'ave to be there like they was? As far as I can see they've 'ad their paarnd of flesh yet dun nuffink for us.

None of us won anyfink, but we know a man wot did; our mate Skye, and there were some stiff competition let me tell yer.

Skye

October

Lucy:
We went on our hols again mates. Wasn't the best of weather all the time, but when it was good it was good and we had a fab day on the beach.

On the Beach

It was Aunty Carol's birthday and we and mum and dad were really pleased to be able to be there.

Kai:
We got back off holiday to find out that those of us that had done the assessments were now approved PAT dogs, and a couple of weeks later we did - and passed - our assessments to be come Blue Cross Children's Education Dogs too.

November

Jack:
Oi went and did de first of our PAT visits. De main ting was to check out de environment we'd be visiting to see if we'd loike it. It was foine, so we'll be visitin' de people at St. Andrews.

December

Lucy:
We helped a bit at the White Lodge Meet and Greet. Even though the weather on the day weren't exactly spiffin' over a �100 was raised.

Mack:
Troy an' me did day one of the Christmas PAT visits at St. Andrews. It haard to descroibe it really, but seein' the effect that we had on peoples day was really great.

Kai:
Jack and I went the next day, and all I can say is, Mack's right.

Christmas PAT Visit

Monty:
We did our Meet and Greet for Greyhound Gap and raised nearly �600, so we added a bit to make it �600 for Gap.

From all The Beastly Beasts and Gill and me; thank you to everyone that's supported us, whether by buying things via our VetUK or easyfundraising links, or visiting our stall at the shows, or helping at Meet and Greets, or just being nice to The Beastly Beasts.

2009 looks like it might not be the best of years for many - we hope it's a good year for you.

BeastBlog is Back

2008-12-21T12:49:00.002Z

You have probably noticed that BeastBlog has been quiet since the end of September. It's not 'coz The Beasts have been quiet, far from it. Rather it has been due to coming back from holiday to find that things at work had gone from not very good to dire. That meant all hands to the pump and then a few weeks back a few of us were told that our hands were no longer needed.

The Beasts have been doing stuff and they've got it all scratched out. Rather than doing one big post they are going to date their posts for the time they did what ever it is they did, so over the next few days there will be lots of new stuff on BeastBlog. I am very proud of some of the things they have been up to and I hope you enjoy their stories.

Chris

Meet and Greet for Gap

2008-12-21T11:31:00.002Z

Yesterday we did our Christmas Meet and Greet for Greyhound Gap; usual spot - outside Northampton Pets at Home.

We turned up a bit before 10 o'clock so we could get all set up and ready and a couple of minutes later Lisa, our favourite pet sitter from Critterz Pets, turned up for an hour or so. And just after we had the stall all ready our mate Curly with his mum and dad (Ann and Norman) turned up too.

Lisa and Ann

Next thing, out comes one of the PaH staff and says "I'm afraid I'm going to have to ask you to leave", apparently an organisation called NAT had also booked to collect here. - you can imagine our reaction. On further investigation it turns out that this booking was made at the store whereas we had booked with head office and confirmed with the store and that is the right way to do it; we dug our paws in - nicely mind. Then it was the manager's turn to talk to us and we told him the same story; you could tell he kind of agreed with us. And anyway, here it was nearly 11 o'clock and no sign of anyone from NAT and we were in full swing with Troy, Mack, and Rosie doing their stuff. So long story short, the manager agreed that it was their (PaH) mistake that had caused the confusion and we'd done the right thing. And NAT had booked both days so at least they had Sunday to collect too; we stayed.

And so did Lisa. She was only supposed to be here for a bit. Just after mid-day she decided she really must go, so she did. Not long after Curly and her mum and dad had to go too; turns out Norman is not very well - all The Beastly Beasts hope he gets better soon.

Lucy and me with Lisa

So that left the seven of us plus mum and dad. They were talking about something called the credit crunch (apparently it's not the same kind of crunch as in a decent treat) and not expecting as much as last year, but all day there were people coming up and putting money in the tins and having a stroke.

We'd been there a few hours and then it happened. Me, Jack, and Lucy had gone for a lie down to take the weight off our feet and Jack was resting his eyes too. Then dad's feet appear in among us. He'd stepped back and trodden on Jack's leg and a bit of skin was hanging loose. Mum got in flap - she's not best with this kind of thing. Dad put everyone else in the Beast Bus for a bit and lady, who had only done a First Aid course that week - not thinking her first patient would be a greyhound - helped and PaH came out with a First Aid kit. With Jack suitably bandaged up mum whizzed him off the emergency vets. Jack would like to thank the lady and the staff at Pets at Home that helped. He came home that evening with stitches, and nothing else is wrong with him - he's back to normal today.

We got out the van again and carried on, then Jayne and Marcus turned up (Jayne comes and lets us out for a wee if dad is out all day). They were sorry to hear about Jack, but mum got back while they were still there and she said he was going to be OK.

Mum Lisa and Ann

By now it was starting to get dark. Our plan was carry on until 4 o'clock. In the end we stayed until after 5 o'clock and I have to give Troy, Mack, Rosie credit - they were on their feet all day making a fuss of people. Jack (before he went to hospital) and Kai did there stuff and even Lucy and me decided to get a bit more involved this year.

We did notice a couple of things this year. There were still a lot of people who thought that what happened to many greyhounds in racing industry was bad, which is good, but there were also a lot of people who knew we made good companions for humans, quite a few who knew greyhounds that were living with humans, and quite a few who said they would get a greyhound when they next needed someone to live with - and that was music to our ears. We gave away load of stuff on Greyhound Gap; let's hope dad has some homechecks to do in the New Year.

So I guess you'd like to know how we, or rather Greyhound Gap, did. Once again the people of Northampton were really generous and donated �552.87. The Beastly Beasts are going to add a bit to that and make the total

�600

We are dead chuffed with that (hope NAT did OK too). We'd like to thank everyone who donated, the Pets at Home staff, Lisa, Curly and her mum and dad, and the lady that helped Jack. We hope everyone has a nice Christmas and a happy New Year.

My 4th Homecoming Day

2008-12-18T14:23:00.000Z

I've been a Beastly Beast for four years now. It still seems amazing to me that life can be horrid then turn out so good.

I used to hate being with people, now I love being with people I know and since my rescue no-one has ever hurt me. And when I think of all the stuff I've done, places I've been, hounds and humans I've met and live with, I reckon I'm one of the luckiest hounds ever.

Me on holiday this year

It's hard to imagine being as scared of things like I used to be. Thing is, no-hound should have to be scared. Maybe one day that will be true; I hope so.

Here's to more homecoming days.

Christmas PAT Visit - Day 2

2008-12-16T19:21:00.001Z

Today Jack and I that went to visit St. Andrews. The Bookend Boys said they really enjoyed themselves yesterday and Jack of course has been before.

Like yesterday Pat and Lucy, and Helen and Shauna were there, and today we also met up with Richard and his two Irish Terriers.

Pat with Shaun, Helen and Lucy, Richard and his terriers, Dad and us

We also met Annie who had been accosted by Troy and Mack yesterday; she wanted to know if we only went out in colour coordinated pairs.

We visited a few people today. Our first stop was at a house that's part of the hospital but not in it. Everyone there was really nice and one lady in particular made a big fuss of me saying I was very handsome.

Then we went upstairs but that seemed quite quiet. There was one lady that loved Shauna and stroking her made her smile, and a chap who put his hat on my head and said I looked dead cool.

Our next visit was to some wards for people that have acquired brain injuries. That means that they hurt themselves in some way, a fall, a car crash, or something, and they have to learn stuff all over again. Richard's terriers visit here regularly, and they told us that they were very proud to be on these wards.

First we went the the men's ward. We waited outside in the dining area and some of the guys came to see us; mostly they made a fuss of the terriers as they were their dogs. Next was another men's ward were they made a bit of a fuss of us, but to be honest they seemed more interested in something else.

Then we went to the ladies ward. Here they all cam flocking to see us. A bit like Mack and George yesterday there was a lady, Julie, that didn't seem interested in anything until Lucy stood next to her. Then Julie started stroking her and from the smile on her face I think she enjoyed it as much as Lucy did. Then Lucy got me to have a go and Julie carried on stroking me.

Jack was in his element; he had three ladies stroking and making a fuss of him. In fact when it was time to go he didn't want to move; he reckoned that this was exactly what all hounds should expect. And you know what? The ladies wanted him to stay.

We were supposed to be visiting another of the wards in the unit, but the lady in charge this afternoon said we couldn't; which was a bit of a shame as it was one of the wards Pat would like us to visit.

On the way back to the cars Pat asked dad and us if we'd enjoyed it. We all had and we all felt fine about the places and the people; and there is something about making a person that doesn't have much to smile about smile. So now we are all waiting for dad to get his training done so we can start visiting regularly, and of course Rosie wants to go and see what it's all about - I think she'll enjoy it too.

Christmas PAT Visit - Day 1 (Part 2)

2008-12-15T20:52:00.002Z

Like Troy said, we did a visit with Pat and Lucy and Helen and Shauna for PAT. Troy's told you about the first few places we went, but there's a couple more to go.

Our next visit was to a ward were people who have Huntington's Disease live. We were quoit excited by this as Pat would like us to visit people here once dad's all sorted with 'is training. As soon as we walked in a lovely lady I'll call Alice came up to greet us. It turns out she really likes dogs an' wants to take one of us for a walk. We couldn't do it today as we were on a tight schedule like, but Alice and a nurse and Pat and dad had a chat, and to cut a long one short, in the new year Alice will be allowed to take Jack for a walk with a carer; well, you'd've thought all Alice's Christmas' had come at once.

Another lass - Sandra - took a right shine to me. She wanted to hold my lead, which was fine; trouble was she didn't want to give it back when it was time to go!! In the end dad unclipped me and we went out of the room; we did get my lead back too.

Last visit of the afternoon was to a ward for the older man. One chap, Alan, was really looking forward to Christmas; he had his Santa hat on and had a singing Rudolph. As we left he gave Pat, Helen and dad one of his paintings.

Our Painting

Like Troy said, if this is what being a PAT dog is about it's blooming great. Dad's explained a bit about some of the reasons that people are there. If we can help - even in a tiny way - to make there stay there a bit nicer it's great, and from what Jack said on his first visit it seems people look forward to you going to see them, and we like people that like us. I'm looking forward to the next visit.

Christmas PAT Visit - Day 1 (Part 1)

2008-12-15T19:49:00.004Z

This afternoon me an' Mack went on our first PAT visits. After Jack's visit we had a conflab and from wot 'ee said we decided we'd go for St. Andrews. So dad's been checked out by the CRB again an' they reckon 'ee's an OK bloke - just shows you can fool some of the people some of the time (just jokin' dad - 'onest).

We met up wiv Pat and Lucy (collie) and Helen and Shauna (German Shepard). Shauna was a right gobby mare 'til we all said "Allo" proper. Lucy and Shauna was done up as fairies, me and Mack 'ad dickie bows a tinsel on to look a bit festive like.

While we was waitin' a lady said "Hi" to dad so I took me chance - straight in for a stroke an' a cuddle. Turns out it's the Volunteer Services lady don't it. She laughed and said "This one's a PAT dog". Not to be left out Mack gets on the uvver side of 'er and does his thing; she reckoned he was one too.

First off we went to an old ladies ward. I reckon most was 'avin' a kip 'coz there weren't that many up an' about, but there was one lady, Mavis I'll call 'er, wot insisted on seein' everyone; lovely lass she was. Each of us went to see Mavis in turn; when she sees me she gave a lovely smile; Mack reckons 'ee got one an all, so I reckon we all did.

Next off was anuvver ladies ward. Funniest fing here was not any off the residents, but one of the staff. Lovely lass called Ester who come from Zimbabwe was workin'. We wanders in looking for people wot's going to make a fuss of us and she gets as far away as she can wivout actually climin' the walls; she's scared of dogs. For me an' Mack, who's mission in life is to be stroked by everyone, this is an unacceptable situation. Five minutes later she's got 'er arms round the Bookend Boys - result.

'Course, we weren't there for the staff an' went to see the ladies wot live there. Joan was very 'appy to us and wanted know everything there is to know about greyhounds - sharp as pin she was.

Then we went a ward for fellas. It did seem like they needed a bit more care, but they were glad to see us and me and Mack don't give a monkeys - a stroke is a stroke. And good fings 'appen.

Mack went up this one chap - we'll call 'im George. Just sittin' there he was, 'ead down looking at 'is lap; turns out that's all George ever does. Well, Mack goes up to 'im and does the big brown eye stare and next fing George is strokin' Mack. We fought nuffink of it 'til all the staff turned round in amazement at wot was 'appenin'. Mack didn't realise 'til I told 'im afterwards, 'ee was quite 'appy 'avin' stroke.

Anyway, I'm gonna stop now and let Mack tell yer about the rest of the afternoon. I'll end by sayin' that I fought it was brilliant. If this is what being a PAT dog is about, bring it on; we made Mavis smile, we got George to take is face out 'is lap and we got Ester to like dogs - well - us two at least; triffik!!

Impromtu Meet & Greet

2008-12-14T20:29:00.000Z

One of the things I've found as a Beastly Beast is that we often get to stop and talk to loads of people when we are out and about - even on our normal walks like, particularly at weekends; today was one of them days and a couple of things happened that I'd like to tell you about.

The first one is about a couple who stopped and had a chat with us. They told us we were all lovely (don't want to sound too big headed, but that's not so unusual) and that they thought what happened to greyhounds was awful (luckily that's not so unusual either these days). What was unusual, but really nice, is they said that their grandson had met a load of greyhounds and lurchers when they came to his Scout night earlier in the year and he reckoned that they were all really brilliant and he wanted one. 'Course we asked which Scout Group he was with and it turned out, as you've probably guessed already, it was the 49th Northampton and that the brilliant hounds was us - wicked!! Nice to know the kids enjoyed it.

The other one happened as we were on the way back to the Beast Bus. We were walking back from the Tree Top walk to the caf� (for those of you that have been to Salcey) when we came up behind a couple of human ladies and their puppies. They were wandering along blissfully unaware of seven hounds behind them when one of the puppies turned round and let out a little scream; turned out she was petrified of dogs. The two ladies however wanted to talk to us and the other puppies came and said hello. And here's the magic - after a bit the scared puppy came over too and started to stroke us; no-one asked her, she just did it. And next thing you know she's giving us hugs and strokes and has decided that dogs aren't so bad after all - much to the amazement of her mum who reckons she's never done anything like that at all. Even when the other lady visits with her dog this young lass wouldn't go near, yet for some reason she decided we was nice. She promised that she would stroke the other ladies dog too. And when we wandered off all the puppies - except the one in the wheels - ran along with us and when we got the car park we had to wait for their mums to catch up.

I got back to the Beast Bus with a funny but nice feeling in my tummy; it's was nice to know that our visit to the Scouts really did go OK (adult humans are polite which means they say nice things even if they don't really mean it, but human puppies always tell it like it is), and to get a little girl not to be scared of dogs was great.

White Lodge Meet and Greet

2008-12-13T19:29:00.001Z

It's the Christmas Meet and Greet season and today was the furst which was for White Lodge; Jess' mum, Tracy, had organised the day. We turned up to do the afternoon shift and luckily by then it'd stopped rainin', though it was still pretty cold; mind you - I was togged up in what dad calls my Arthur Daley coat so I was warm an' toasty.

Me

Despoite the fact it was a miserable day there was a fair few there, which was great to see.

Assorted Crowds

When we turrned oop Jess came ova to say "Hi and thanks for comin'"; I've got a bit of a soft spot foor Jess; Rosie 'oweveer thought she was gettin' too close to 'er and 'ad woords, so that was moi chance gone.

Jess

After a bit some of the others went off foor their Christmas lunch leaving Jess and Lester, us and another very pretty lass called Jill, to do the stuff. Let me tell you a bit about Jill.

Jill

Jill is a very friendly lass to humans, and loike Oi said - very pretty, but put your nose anywhere near her and she'll tell yoo where to go; remoind you of anyone?

Later on our mate Morty turrned oop with his human Sarah. Durin' the afternoon they 'ad woords with Jill and soon she was happily standing next to Morty, so Oi reckon Jill and Rosie are the same; for some reason scared of other hounds 'til they get to know 'em loike. And just loike Rosie she needs to know that who ever she's with will loook after her so she doesn't 'ave to worry.

Anyway, back to the Meet and Greet. We need to say thanks to Aunty Linda who got us some chips - of which dad stole a fair few. Lucy wanted more, but there weren't any in the money bucket.

Lucy

It got reeally daark about 4 o'clock so we decoided enough was enough. Despoite it being a cold and dark day �112.46 was raised for White Lodge, and quite a few leaflets had been given away to people thinking about giving a hound a home; that would make some-hound's New Year - a sofa of their own.

And thanks to Alison - Sol's mum - for the piccies.

My First PAT Visit

2008-11-17T17:46:00.002Z

Well now, it wasn't just my first PAT visit, it was de first of any of The Beastly Beasts. Normally it would be Kai dat'd do de first of anything, but he had a cyst removed from one his feet dis week and his paw is all bandaged up, so it fell to me.

So yesterday evening me and dad went and met Pat (who runs PAT in Northampton) and one of her dogs - Lucy - at St. Andrews Hospital to do a visit. Dis was a trial visit to see if we loiked it 'coz St. Andrews is a bit of a special place; you see it's where people go dat have de mental health problems and dat can be anyting; dere are people dat have Huntingtons disease, dat have been hurt in de head in an accident, right de way to some people dat have done some not very noice tings 'coz dey are ill. So to keep dem safe dey live in a "locked environment" and not everyone or everyhound loikes to visit in dat kind of environment. But according to Pat St. Andrews have asked for more PAT dogs 'coz de people loike dem and it makes dem better for a bit, and Pat needed more volunteers. So we was dere to see if we loiked it or not.

Now, before Oi tell you what happened Oi need to say dat when we say anything about our PAT visits de names we use for de people we visit are not de real names - Oi'm sure you'll understand why.

So yesterday we went to two wards both of which Lucy and Pat visit. De first one was a ladies ward. We had to ask to be let in den even when were insoide every door we went truogh had to unlocked den locked behoind us. We went into a room were dere was some ladies and den straight out into de garden were any of de ladies could come and see us if dey wanted. As soon as word got round a few ladies came out to see Lucy and mostly dey made a fuss of her. Oi say mostly 'coz one girl - Oi'll call her Angela made a fuss of me. De others did too, but it turned out dat Angela was scared of dogs and never come out to see Lucy. Her mates had persuaded her and when she saw me she decoided Oi was de one she'd stroke first; and dat was noice. All de girls were really noice and we spent about tree quarters of an hour with dem. Den it was toime to go to the other ward.

Dis ward was for de lads. Loike de ladies one we had go through one door at a toime. When we go to the lads dey was all doin' what I call de biggin' up - loike dey were de man, or one of dem was playin' a game on the telly. But after a bit dey all stopped and made a fuss of Lucy and me - you could tell dey really enjoyed Lucy being dere and Lucy had a bit of a laugh with dem. And loike on de ladies, one lad who had never touched Lucy decoided to give me a stroke. I guess we were dere about half an hour or so. Lokie de ladies dey were really nice and hopefully dey will get better and be able to leave de hospital soon.

So, dis was a test visit. It maybe wasn't what we tought we'd be doin as PAT dogs, but did I enjoy it? Yes. Two people dat were scared of dogs stroked me, and dat has to be a good thing. Was bein' in a locked environment a problem? Oi'm a greyhound - dat's what my life used to be, so no, not a problem. Will the others be OK? I reckon so.

Next dad has to register as a volunteer at St. Andrews and get CRB checked (again) and do some training so dat him and us will safe when we visit on our own. All dat waill take a whoile so we probably won't be doin' any visits again soon. But Oi'm lookin' forward to my next one.

We've Been Sat On

2008-11-16T10:30:00.001Z

We've been sat on - in a manner that one can only describe as the wonderful.

Mum and dad had a couple of social engagements yesterday - a wedding of one of mum's friends and a birthday party of one of dad's. The wedding was some distance away by all accounts and meant they would be gone for quite some time. To ensure that our needs were catered for we hired a lady called Lisa to come and stay with us while mum and dad were out.

Lisa is a professional pet sitter and runs Critterz Pets. We'd interviewed her a few days ago and she seemed really nice. After yesterday we decided that she is really nice.

While she was here Lisa took some photos - see if you can spot us in her gallery, and yes, Rosie is wearing her slippers, and yes, the hens are our girls.

What can I say, apart from the fact that it was someone different it was just the same; Mack spent the whole evening cuddled up to Lisa, the rest of us did what we normally do - relax.

So The Beastly Beasts recommend Lisa and Critterz Pets; a five paw service and one that we will use again for sure.

Blue Cross Assesments

2008-10-15T20:17:00.002+01:00

You probably know that most of us are now PAT dogs (not that we've done a visit yet mind). Dad - in his wisdom - decided that we should also be volunteers for The Blue Cross on their Children's Education Programme. This would mean we get to go to schools and youth clubs and help show children what it means to really look after dogs and other pets so they will do it properly; we think that's a good thing.

Like being a PAT dog we had to go and be assessed to see if we are up to the job. Today was the day and we met a very nice lady called Tracy at Pets at Home (where we do our Christmas Meet and Greet for Gap).

I went in first and, like dad said it would be, it was quite like the PAT dog assessment; being nice to people, not taking a treat until we were told to, not getting scared if something clattered, that sort of thing. One bit that was new was having lots of people round us clapping and cheering and stroking us. None of us minded that one bit!!

Troy and Mack said they quite liked the rabbits that were in a big glass cage and wanted to spend lots more time looking at them.

Afterwards Tracy said we were all really good and should make good helpers when dad does his stuff. Hopefully we won't have to wait too long before we start doing things.

PAT Dogs

2008-10-11T13:12:00.001+01:00

WhooooHoooo. We have just arrived back home from holiday to find out that Me, Jack, Troy, Mack and Rosie are all now official PAT dogs.

BeastBreak 2008 Episode 2 - Days 8 & 9

2008-10-10T14:29:00.000+01:00

We was cookin' - well, dad was. Normally Aunty Carol does a slap up for everyone but she's on 'oliday in fawrin'. So dad says to all the uvva's wot's stayin' 'ere that ee'll Robin in the nude. Wot, you might ask, 'as this got to do wiv The Beastly Beasts. Stay wiv me for a bit an' I'll tell yer.

So we've bin an' dun the shoppin' - not as bad as it sounds as we stand aartside the bottle an' loads of people comes an' 'as a cuddle like. Then it's daarn to the serious matta of the day - a good ball o' chalk daarn the fields. Now I know wot dad's plan was; take us aart late afternoon, get us creamed, big nosh an' we'll crash aart and not get in the way of this evenin's proceedings. Good plan - except dad 'ad to be back to start cookin' an' Monty an' Rosie 'ad uvver ideas abaart that.

Cheers Ears

Mack

We set off daarn the fields and into the valley then into the bottom field. We love it daarn 'ere - there's a stream we can 'ave a splash araarnd in and an 'uge field to run araarnd in an' bushes to sniff abaart an' woods to explore; it's magik?

Rosie

This 'as to be Monty's favourite place in the world. 'Ee always 'as an 'oooge smile on 'is face an' tail up.

Monty

I'd also draw your attention to wot's 'appenin' in the backgraand; the lurchers doin' lurchery fings. 'They went 'ell for leather daarn the field an' to listen to it you'd fink there was gonna be blood an' guts everywhere; why lurchers 'ave to make to so much noise is beyond me.

Kai an' Rosie

The aftermath was two lurchers a tad aart of breff.

Kai an' Rosie

Once agen I want to draw your attention to the backgraand of the photo; big ol' field innit?

Anyway, Monty's bin 'avin' a run an' Rosie's bin 'avin' a run; time for a breever.

Rosie

Monty

Breever over an' the pair of 'em charge off daarn the field into the next one. Now that ain't so bad but dad don't like anyone being out o' sight so we all 'as to trek daarn the field. To get to the next field requires us to go fruu the gate. The graand in the gateway is a testament to the amount of rain we've had an' the amount of manure cows make; we gets to walk fruu it. Monty an' Rosie are busy sniffin' the bushes an' judgin' by Monty's tail 'ee reckons there's a rabbit in there. I would point aart that Monty will fink there's a rabbit in there long arfta the rabbit 'as taken it's leave. So would they give it up an' come back? Would they 'eck, an' dad ain't best pleased as 'ee wants to get back.

'Course they did come back eventually and we 'eaded back; back that was fruu the gate an' the liquid cow poo; you could almost see the steam comin' aart of dads ears. Next stop was the stream were, much to Rosie's displeasure and not exactly anyone's delight, dad washed us daarn.

Then it was time to go 'ome. Good job it was a bit of a way as it gave dad time to calm daarn a bit.

An' the bicycle? Seemed to go OK. People stayed 'til well late and made a fuss of us most of the evenin'. Next mornin' mum and Monty 'ad a bit of a lie in.

Monty and Mum

No point gettin' up really, it was rainin' cat an' 'umans, so not exactly best. We decided we might as well start packin' as we 'ad to go 'ome tomorra. Now we're packed an' it's still rainin', so we've decided we're gonna go 'ome this 'evenin'.

We've 'ad a right larf this week even though the wevva ain't been best. An' dad says we're comin' back next year again - result!!

BeastBreak 2008 Episode 2 - Day 7

2008-10-08T19:27:00.000+01:00

The weather for the past couple of days has been pretty average and walks have been down the fields followed by a good towel; nothin' else to say about days 5 and 6 really.

Today was different; today was as good as it gets and what being on holiday here is all about.

Aunty Carol and Uncle Trevor had gone off on their hols, so dad was helping out Andy walking their pack. He's got a real soft spot for Waj and I was bit surprised when dad arrived back home without him.

Waj

Then it was our turn for a trek over the fields and down into the valley. It was one of those days when it feels just bonzer to be alive - the sun was warm, the fields were empty and the world was ours.

Here's some of the guys and me from this morning.

Kai

Monty

Jack

Mack

Yours T

The fields were great, but if you're a regular BeastBlog reada you'll know there is only one place for me; on the beach with my boys, and today was it. OK, we'd gone to Druid Haven the other day which was nice, but today was Marloes Sands and a chance to really get the sand in between our toes.

Marloes Sands

It was early evening, the sun was still shining and the tide was just going out so the sand was nice and firm - just bonzer for running games - even mum joined in though she didn't really stand a chance.

Running Games

The guy that ya gotta hand it to is Monty. Nearly a year back he came a gutser and broke his leg then spent almost six months on the mend. You wouldn't have know it toady; the boy was givin' it hundred per cent.

More Running Games

Yet More Running Games

After the we'd charged around like we'd got 'roos loose in the top paddock we chilled out for a bit before heading home.

Troy

Rosie

Some days are like life just doesn't get any better; today was one of those days.

BeastBreak 2008 Episode 2 - Day 4

2008-10-05T23:27:00.000+01:00

Let us just say that mum and dad were a bit slow today. They didn't get until gone 2 o'clock this morning and had a bit of a sleep in.

Later on we went to Druids Haven, one of our favourite beaches. Unfortunately today there were quite a few people around so we didn't get to have a run around. But the weather was nice and it was good to get onto the beach for a bit.

All of us

Me

Mum and dad were off out again this evening, so we the beach was pretty much it today. To be honest none of us got to sleep until mum and dad got in - well, you do worry about your humans don't you - so we were happy to have some tea and relax.

BeastBreak 2008 Epsiode 2 - Day 3 - The Party

2008-10-05T23:01:00.001+01:00

Day 3 was Carol's birthday - a significant one. Plan A was to hold it in a couple of marquees - band in one, food in the other; a plan that was abandoned due to the weather being the sort that explains why the grass in Wales is so green. Even The Beasts thought twice about going out in the morning.

Today was also transfer day - we moved from Wynne's Cottage to Swallows Dance, much to Monty's delight as he could now go on pussy patrol and somewhat to Rosie's disgust as she had lost her vantage point to watch the comings and goings of all and sundry.

Last night I spent an "interesting" few hours as preparations were made to implement plan B; to hold the party in the lower barns. The preparations consisted of removing Carol's, Trevor's, and in some cases Andy's "historical artefacts" from the barns thereby making room for the guests. As with all accumulations theirs had expanded to meet the space available. I would love to be able to regale you with embarrassing tales as certain objects came to light, but unfortunately there were none (or Trevor plied with sufficient beer to keep my silence - you choose).

As Saturday wore on it became more and more dismal. Then it was time to go partying and the weather didn't matter any more. Somehow - not exactly sure how - I ended up as official photographer. There are far to many photos for this post but there's a few of my favourites below. Click here if you'd like to see the rest.

Lady in Red

Rock Chick

Suited and Booted

It's My Drink

It was a great party. The band were really good; the singer was a dead spit for Rupert Penry-Jones (Adam Carter in Spooks) and Andy was definitely in love. Talking of Andy, it will come as no surprise to those that know him that he was the most outrageous person at the party; it's a shame this is a photo and not a video.

Andy's Balloon Dance

When I say Andy was the most outrageous; he did have competition.

???

OK - he was.

Ride'em Cowboy

As with all good parties it went on well into the early hours of the morning and there were a few who couldn't remember all the details the next day; I was not among their number, though to be fair we weren't exactly up first thing.

Time for me to go and let Kai tell you about their day today.