“During the week I worked with Ruby in the town centre and at the local supermarket, spending time on her walking to heel and ensuring that she continued to focus when confronted by a variety of experiences.

I do find that the supermarket is a great training environment, not just because of the large number of people, levels noise and general hustle-and-bustle, but also because there are always unexpected distractions to handle and put the training to the test.

During the training visit on Wednesday, Ruby was working really well and very focused, with nothing really throwing her off her stride. Until we turned to walk up the dairy produce aisle and she started to pull to the left towards a discarded piece of French Stick bread that somebody had dropped. Fortunately, I was able to issue her a quick “Leave it!” command, followed by a positive reinforcing “Good girl!” when she immediately looked towards me. We were then able to continue walking on down the aisle, having successfully put the training into practice!

To finish the week, I attended our village’s annual tree lighting event at the church, where the Christmas lights are turned on on the living Christmas tree with stars attached to remember loved ones, carols are sung and money is raised for a local charity and for the church.

This year I was delighted that Dogs for the Disabled was chosen as the local charity, and so I was able to organise a stall of merchandise in the church room where villagers were able to warm themselves with mulled wine and tea.

I was ably supported by my Mum, and also arranged to have a fully trained dog in attendance as well, to help villagers understand what their donations would support once the socialised puppies, like Ruby, are returned to the Training Centre.

It was an enjoyable afternoon, Ruby behaved well, and the event raised over £350 including generous support from Bibby Financial Services.

As an added bonus, I discussed temporary boarding with one of the event attendees and have been able to put them in contact with the Charity, so hopefully that is another, much-welcomed and highly-appreciated volunteer to add to the programme.”