Dog Lovers Book Club - August 2022

Whether you're a fan of psychological thrillers, breathtaking adventures and true dog tales, a history buff or love feasting your eyes on stunning dog photography books, we have some great suggestions for you in our August 2022 Dog Lovers Book Club. 

Let's not forget some educational children's books because 'Reading Is All'...

SGT GEORGE, THE RELUCTANT DETECTIVE
by Lee Huggett 

When heroic war dog, SGT George develops Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder, Agoraphobia, and a crippling fear of any man with a black beard, he is sent home from Afghanistan, to retire in an English village. Determined to live his life slumped on the sofa, eating, and waiting to die, George has no idea of the trouble ahead.

When his human tries to cure him with a barrage of insufferable therapies, he knows he has become a hopeless case. But when his army ego is ridiculed by a mysterious pack of dubious dogs, he realizes he must venture outside to enact revenge and re-establish his pride. 

When he does, he finds himself on a new mission. One which involves solving a murder, in a bid to save the heart and soul of a tormented young dog.

As the story unfolds, and the case more complex, he finds that his staunchly held army beliefs come shattering down around him. Not only are the dogs smarter and more challenging than he had originally thought, but now he is confronted with the task of defending an enemy, he has spent his life fearing and hating.

But is the suspect really a murdering terrorist? Or is he being led down another path of deception and betrayal by yet another enemy in disguise?

Paperback, 262 pages

RRP: $29.69 at www.amazon.com.au. Available online and from all good bookstores.

WONDER DOGS
True Stories of Canine Courage
by Ben Holt

Life isn't perfect, but dogs certainly can be!

Meet the incredible dogs in this inspiring collection of true stories, championing the often-underestimated role of man’s best friend.

✔️ Daisy, the tiny Dachshund who put her life on the line to save her humans from a bear.
✔️ Charco, the veteran sniffer dog who has saved countless human lives, and yet still keeps his tail wagging.
✔️ Delta, the dog who died trying to protect her young owner from a volcano after already having saved his life three times.

It’s a truth universally acknowledged that dogs are pretty great. But when it comes to facing peril, these loyal creatures always seem willing to step up to the mark and become true doggy heroes. 

Whether they’re saving humans from dangerous people or situations, helping the sick, fighting crime or just following their animal instincts to do good, the true stories featured in this expanded and updated collection prove that dogs aren't only man s best friend they’re also inspirational, courageous, and selfless companions to us all.

Paperback:‎ 208 pages
Publisher: Summersdale, 12 April 2022

Price: $17.35 from www.booktopia.com.au

NORTHBOUND WITH THEO

A Man and His Dog Thru-Hike the Appalachian Trail at Ages 75 and 8
by Soren West

2,200 miles, February till October, all sorts of weather!

After 46 years as a trial attorney, Soren West and his golden retriever, Theo, set out to thru-hike the Appalachian Trail. Soren loses 30 pounds, has a tooth reset, and his shoulder repaired.

But he also meets wild people, unscalable rocks, and night-time frights on this "life-changing adventure," all the way with Theo!
Soren West discovered the woods as both adventure and refuge from a difficult home life as a 12-year-old.

This book is for hikers, dog lovers, nature lovers, anyone who likes huge challenges and readers who like "life-changing adventures"!

Paperback, 384 pages
Publisher: Walnut Street Books, 15th July 2022

Price: $23.99 at www.amazon.com.au

DOGS IN VAN DIEMEN’S LAND

The adorable, the mischievous and the downright nasty
by Ian Broinowski

Dogs in Van Diemen's Land tells the story of how dogs were imbued into practically every aspect of early colonial life in Tasmania,

Initially they were instrumental in feeding the British who would most certainly have starved had it not been for their dogs' ability to provide them with the sustenance they needed. Dogs almost immediately befriended the Palawa people and played a significant part in the 1820's war for Lutruwita (i.e. Tasmania) on both sides by guarding, attacking and often dying protecting their people.

They ran alongside the paths of bushrangers who needed them for food and protection. In the emerging colony crime and murder were ever present and dogs played their part as guard dogs, defenders and at times risking their lives. Love for dogs by all strata of this tiny, isolated community is evident in so many of the articles and images presented in the book and are both amusing and pleasurable to read and view.

This book will be enticing for those who love dogs and enjoy tales from the past.

Paperback, 318 pages
Publisher: Ian Broinowski, 30th May 2022

Price: $128.24 at www.amazon.com.au

DOG GODS

by Tim Flach

In a remarkable series of original photographs, award-winning artist Tim Flach examines and celebrates the wonder of the dog.

New ways of living and new findings in research reveal our relationship with these much-loved creatures is even more intense and vital than we previously thought.

In insightful stories and eye-opening images, Dogs Gods shows us that our great companions may not only be remarkable as dogs - they can also hold the key to new understandings of what it is to be human.

Drawing on access to some of the world's most prized dogs and breeds, along with insights into cutting-edge research on the human-dog relationship, Flach and writer Lewis Blackwell take the reader on a remarkable journey around the canine world. From examining the origin of the species, to showing how dogs can surprise us with new secrets about life, Dogs Gods is an inspiration and celebration around one of the most enduring loves.

Hardcover, 216 pages
Publisher: Thames & Hudson Australia Pty Ltd, 29th March 2022

Price: $57.25 from www.booktopia.com.au

BOOK CLUB – KIDS’ CORNER

 

A HOME FOR GODDESSES AND DOGS
by Leslie Connor

A unique masterpiece about loss, love, and the world’s best bad dog, now available in paperback.

This novel sings about loss and love and finding joy in new friendships and a loving family, along with the world’s best bad dog. An uplifting middle grade novel about recovery featuring strong female characters, an adorable dog, and the girl who comes to love him.

It’s a life-altering New Year for thirteen-year-old Lydia when she uproots to a Connecticut farm to live with her aunt following her mother’s death.

Aunt Brat and her jovial wife, Eileen, and their ancient live-in landlord, Elloroy, are welcoming and a little quirky. Lydia’s struggle for a sense of belonging in her new family is highlighted when the women adopt a big yellow dog just days after the girl’s arrival.

Wasn’t one rescue enough?

Lydia is not a dog person and this one is trouble! He is mistrustful and slinky. He pees in the house, escapes into the woods, and barks at things unseen. His new owners begin to guess about his unknown past.

Meanwhile, Lydia doesn’t want to be difficult and she does not mean to keep secrets but there are things she’s not telling...

Like why the box of “paper stuff” she keeps under her bed is so important... And why that hole in the wall behind a poster in her room is getting bigger...
And why something she took from the big yellow dog just might be the key to unravelling his mysterious past but at what cost.

Paperback, 416 pages
Publisher: HarperCollins Publishers, 3rd March 2022

RRP: $14.99 from www.booktopia.com.au

NOT TODAY CELESTE!
A Dog's Tale About Her Human's Depression
by Liza Stevens, contribution by Pooky Knightsmith 

Celeste thinks she is the happiest dog in the world. But when she notices something different about her human, Rupert, she wonders if things will ever be the same again.

Charmingly illustrated, this heart-warming story for children aged 3+ reflects some of the feelings and experiences that a child whose parent or carer has depression may face. When it comes to periods of low mood in a parent or carer, children can often feel that they are to blame, or even that the parent doesn't love them anymore.

The story provides reassurance by explaining what depression is and how it is possible to find help. With a comprehensive guide for parents and professionals written by Dr Pooky Knightsmith that provides advice on discussing the topic with children, this is a truly valuable resource that will be of interest to social workers, child and school counsellors, psychologists, parents and foster parents.

Publisher: Jessica Kingsley Publishers, 21st April 2022
Paperback, 36 pages
For Ages: 4+ years old

Price: $26.25 from www.booktopia.com.au

WINSTON THE TRAVELING DOG GOES TO EGYPT & JORDAN
by Cynthia Anne Finefrock

A cute and entertaining tale of a brave pup named Winston and his adventures abroad.

Winston the Traveling Dog goes to Egypt & Jordan is his second adventure overseas as Winston couldn't wait to keep exploring the big, amazing world he lives in. This time, he's off to Egypt & Jordan in search of treasure, Indiana Bones style! What kind of treasure will he end up finding?

Spark your child's curiosity of the world as they tag along with Winston, visiting popular sights.

Children will learn the importance of embracing different cultures, cityscapes and cuisines, all the while making new friends along the way. 

Pack your imaginary bags and let's get ready for an adventure!

Paperback, 24 pages

Publisher‏ ‎ Faithful Friends Publishing, 30th May 2022.

RRP: $20.44 at www.amazon.com.au

SOLO 

by Adam Beer

A terrific book to encourage sharing and making new friends – not to mention the perfect present for dog lovers!

Meet Solo the dog. This is his island – and these are his things and his humans. So when a group of other dogs turn up, Solo doesn’t like it – not one bit – and he tells them so quite firmly. He doesn't want to share his things and he thinks they're running out of control (although it does look quite fun...).

Only, once the others have gone, Solo finds that he misses his new friends, and races to get them back.

Will Solo come to see that no dog is an island, and that some things are just better with friends? Find out in this irresistible author-illustrator debut from Adam Beer, the illustrator of Mammoth.

Paperback, 32 pages
Publisher: Simon & Schuster Children's UK, 21st July, 2022

For Ages: 3 - 99 years old

RRP: $14.99. For stockists, visit www.simonandschuster.com.au

Simple At-Home Dog Conditioning Exercises

Learn how to prevent injury and extend your dog’s lifespan

Dog conditioning is a workout for dogs that aims to improve muscle mass, body awareness, strength, flexibility, balance and coordination. 

It has the potential to increase your dog’s lifespan because well-conditioned dogs are less likely to injure themselves and are generally more mobile in old age.

How can dog conditioning prevent injury?

A well-conditioned dog has the ability to carry more load on their muscles. This is important because injuries happen when there is too much load on a muscle for which the muscle is not prepared. 

In addition, injuries also occur when a muscle is fatigued which leads to stumbles, trips and falls as your dog loses the ability to maintain their position and balance. Muscles of a well-conditioned dog do not fatigue as quickly as those of a dog who has not had any conditioning training.

The forgotten stabiliser muscles

Many dogs get regular walks and runs in the park or at the beach which is fantastic for their overall cardio stamina and for maintaining larger muscle groups. 

Unfortunately, deeper muscle groups which are responsible for balance and stability, are often neglected and remain on the weaker end of the spectrum. When a dog activates these weak stabiliser muscles when jumping, turning and braking to fetch a ball, or when they simply lose balance and try to avoid slipping and sliding, there is a greater risk of injury to these muscles, as well as tendons and ligaments.

I have taught many of my clients simple at-home exercises for their dog’s core and overall strength, and the results are truly telling. Clients of middle-aged and older dogs in particular have reported visible mobility improvements including better balance, stability and coordination. 

There are a whole range of exercises you can do with your dog and some are very simple yet effective. 

If you want to get into more advanced exercises, I recommend you consult a canine therapist that has had training in canine conditioning to teach you the correct techniques of more complex exercises. Implementing correct technique is crucial in achieving desired outcomes and avoiding injury.

Things to know before you start

#1. Floors – Make sure your dog never performs any of the exercises on slippery flooring such as floorboards or tiles. Your dog will tense up and will not perform the exercises correctly if they must navigate a slippery surface. This can lead to injuries which is the last thing we want for your dog. 

If you don’t have any carpeted areas or rugs in your house, you can get a few rubber-backed carpet floor tiles from a hardware store or carpet outlet, or you can use an exercise mat. 

Be mindful however that if your dog is not used to performing the exercises on an exercise mat, they will most likely not stay confined to the small mat. 

If you are just starting out with conditioning exercises, I recommend you make sure you have a larger non-slippery area available where your dog can perform the exercises safely.

#2. Warm up – Always warm your dog up before performing any conditioning exercises by walking and trotting them for at least 5 minutes either around the house or garden, or simply by taking them for a quick walk around the block.

#3. Fatigue – If your dog is no longer able to perform the exercises properly or shows signs of stress such as panting, licking, yawning or a reluctance to perform the exercises, there is a high chance your dog is showing signs of fatigue. This is the time you will have to stop. 

A fatigued dog is prone to injury because their exhausted muscles are too weak to support their body.

#4. Sets and Repetitions – Start with a low number of repetitions and as your dog builds up strength over time, increase the repetitions and introduce sets. Always monitor your dog for signs of fatigue and make a note of how many sets and repetitions you have completed. This will give you a good idea of where your dog is at with their fitness.

Things you need to get before you start

#1. Treats – You will need high value treats to make the exercises worthwhile for your dog. To ensure your dog does not gain weight, I recommend you feed them their dinner (or parts of their dinner) whilst doing the exercises. It gets a bit messy when you are a raw feeder but you can cut up a piece of meat into several very small pieces. This should do the trick.

#2. Step – If you are just starting out, you can use any step around your house (step onto your porch or deck, or stairs in your home). If you want to get more serious, I recommend you invest in an exercise step as you can use this for many other exercises such as pivoting around the step. 

It is also a foundation exercise to teach your dog to step on an independent stable platform which you can later exchange for an unstable platform such as a balancing disc.

FitPAWS Balance Discs (Razzleberry) available from  Super Dog Products Australia

#3. Balancing Disc – make sure you get a balancing disc, not a board. A disc, sometimes also called balancing cushion, is inflatable and you can adjust the amount of air in the disc. 

A balancing board on the other hand is a fantastic prop to work with but most likely too advanced for your purposes if you are just starting out. 

 

If you have not yet taught your dog to step on an independent stable platform such as an exercise step, there is a high likelihood your dog will not step on either, a balancing disc or board. 

A Wobble Board is a type of balancing board

Most dogs that do not associate a command such as ‘step’ with stepping up onto something, will decide to step around an obstacle.

Exercise #1: Down to Stand

A repetitive position change from a down position into a standing position is a fantastic exercise to strengthen your dog’s shoulders, hips, knees and their core. In order for a dog to push themselves up, they have to engage the majority of their front and rear end muscles, as well as their core to balance and stabilise themselves.

How to perform the exercise correctly

Lure your dog with a treat into a standing position. Reward. Then push with your hand and treat diagonally downwards toward your dog’s chest and once your dog starts lowering themselves down, move your hand and treat even further downward in between your dog’s front paws until they have lowered themselves fully into a down position. Reward. This method works for most dogs. Repeat this several times.

The idea is that your dog does not reposition their legs but fluently moves between the down and stand position with their four legs remaining in the same spot. The movement should be slow and controlled in which your dog evenly flexes their shoulders, elbows, hips and knees. You might not achieve this right away but this is something to strive for.

Important

It is important that when your dog is in the down position, their hind legs are neatly tucked under in a square down position. If you dog has one or both legs held out, even only a tiny bit, I recommend you see your vet to get your dog assessed before continuing with the exercise. Once you get the green light from your vet, you can manually correct your dog’s hind legs in the down position by simply pushing and tucking their limbs under.

Exercise #2: Front Feet Up on Stable Surface

Front Feet Up is a relatively easy exercise to perform and is a great static exercise that strengthens the lower back, the hind end muscles, the core and the hip flexors.

Keeping a static position for a certain amount of time is called isometric strengthening (the most well-known isometric exercise we humans are familiar with is the plank). Isometric exercises engage and strengthen the postural muscles which are incredibly important for stability and balance. 

Older dogs in particular present often with weak postural muscles which impedes on their mobility and stability.

How to perform the exercise correctly

Lure your dog with a treat to place their front feet on the platform. Reward. Keep them positioned for 5- 10 seconds and then release them off the platform. When your dog’s front feet are on the platform you want to ensure that their limbs are positioned parallel and that their head is in a relatively neutral position (above the spine but not stretched toward the ceiling). It all comes down to where you hold the treat. 

I prefer to squat down in front of the dog to avoid holding the treat too high but it is up to you what works best for you. If you move the treat closer to your dog’s face or even let them nibble or lick it, your dog will naturally shift a bit more weight onto their hind limbs.

Important

Make sure the platform is stable and does not slide on the ground. Similarly, make sure that the top surface of the platform is non-slippery. The hind feet of your dog should not be under their hip which results in a roached back and leads to a disengagement of their core musculature. Your dog should also not lean forward too much to grab the treat as this causes their weight to be shifted to their front end.

Exercise #3: Front Feet Up on Unstable Surface

Using an unstable surface works primarily on the core and postural muscles that help keep your dog balanced and stable. Core strength is crucial for the stabilisation of the spine and for proper hind and front limb work. A weak core puts more stress on your dog’s limb joints and recruits other muscles to compensate for the weakness. This in turn can lead to overload and a potential injury due to compensatory patterns.

How to perform the exercise correctly

Lure your dog with a treat to place their front paws on the balance disc. If your dog walks around the disc, I recommend you start with a stable surface first (see Exercise #2) and teach them a command such as ‘step’. If there are treats involved, you will be surprised how quickly your dog will learn that stepping onto something results in a reward. We want to set them up for success so the stable surface should be big enough that they cannot fail. 

Once they get the gist of the exercise, exchange the stable surface with the balance disc and use the command you taught them. Hold for 5-10 seconds and release your dog off the disc. Repeat. 

A more advanced version of this exercise would be to press onto the inflatable balance disc whilst your dog is standing on it to offset your dog’s balance. This requires your dog to engage their core muscles even more.

Important

Similar to Exercise #2, your dog’s hind feet should not be positioned under their hip. If your dog is recruiting their hind limbs under their pelvis for stability, this exercise is too advanced for them.

Exercise #4: Active Cookie Shifting Exercise

The Active Cookie Shifting Exercise is another fantastic core strengthening exercise that increases strength in your dog’s stabiliser muscles. Shifting weight in a static standing position leads to alternating isometric contractions and, at the same time, this exercise also improves flexibility in the spine and achieves a stretch through the neck and back.

How to perform the exercise correctly

Lure your dog to turn their head toward their rear end. Make sure your dog is not repositioning their hind limbs to achieve weight shifting to one side. Repeat on the other side. Ideally you would want your dog to stand still in the same position whilst turning their head toward their right hip and then toward their left hip. Repeat this several times at a medium speed.

Important

It is important that the movements are controlled and fluid and that your dog remains in a static standing position. If you lure your dog’s head too far to their rear end, they will start walking in a circle. Only ask them to turn so much that they can still keep a stable position.

Key Takeaways

✔️ Always train on non-slippery surface

✔️ Warm your dog up before performing conditioning exercises

✔️ Look out for signs of fatigue

✔️ Build up strength over time with repetitions

✔️ Have fun with your dog!

written by Sandra Bader from Paws4Paws, July 2022 for Australian Dog Lover (all rights reserved).

About our writer

Sandra Bader is a certified Canine Myofunctional Therapist with a background in human massage and acupressure. 

She has always had a passion for dogs, and it was her dog Chito who gave her a nudge 10 years ago to follow her passion and redirect her path from being an academic (anthropologist) to helping dogs live a longer and happier life. Chito is now 12.5 years old and still fit, strong and healthy.

Sandra became a certified Canine Myofunctional Therapist in 2015 and has completed continued professional development in canine rehabilitation and conditioning. She offers therapy sessions in the comfort of her clients’ homes in Melbourne and its suburbs, and combines hands-on techniques such as remedial massage, myofascial pain release and trigger point therapy with rehabilitative strengthening work and conditioning.

To learn more about her service, please visit www.paws4paws.com.au

You can also follow Paws4Paws on www.facebook.com/Paws4pawsmelbourne

Corgi Benson: how to live life to its fullest!

This is a story of the life of Benson, a very talented Welsh Corgi Pembroke, and his owner Aileen from Victoria.

We should start with introducing you formally to Benson, aka Grand Neuter Ch Windyle Black Brocade CCD PT RN as he's extremely proud of all his achievements.

At the time of writing this article Benson is 17 years and 3 months and he's still doing very well, thank you for asking! 

A little bit of background about Corgis

Princess Elizabeth (in 1930s) with Dookie,
one of her first beloved Welsh Corgis

The Welsh Corgi (Pembroke) is a cattle herding dog. It is believed they were brought into Wales by invading Vikings and the Flemish weavers around the eleventh century. 

The Pembroke was initially made popular by being the chosen breed of Queen Elizabeth II. She received her first Pembroke from her father in 1933. 

They have become the ideal family dog because of their good nature and desire to please.

The Pembroke is active and intelligent with an outgoing and friendly nature and is said to be highly trainable. Benson certainly turned out to be a poster boy for his breed! 

Benson, the early years

Benson was born on April 10th 2005, one of eleven puppies! There were only two tricolours in the litter with all the others red and white.

The litter was bred by Ray Barwick and David Smith (Windyle Pembrokes).

Benson was always front and centre. He is the tricolour puppy on the right of this photo, clearly saying "please pick me!"

He came to live with Aileen at the age of 10 weeks. David Smith delivered him to Aileen’s house on Friday May 27, 2005. 

This was a very momentous day as it was also the day Aileen retired after twenty seven years of service to Safeway and then Woolworths. 

Driving to work one day Aileen decided she would rather be home spending more time with her beloved Corgis so she handed in her resignation. This was the start of her wonderful journey with Benson.

Here is a summary of Benson’s milestones.

He has worked as a therapy dog, story dog, promotions dog, he has performance titles and is a show champion.

Benson aged 8 weeks, 3 months and 1 year (2006)

Corgi Benson in 2010, 2016, 2018 & 2022

Benson, the Therapy Dog Ambassador

At the age of two, Benson qualified as a therapy dog and continued in this role for the next 10 years. 

During this time, he and Aileen made regular visits to Tower Grange Aged Care, Cumberland View Aged Care and Waverley Valley Aged Care. At the nursing homes and aged care facilities he was allowed on the beds as he was so gentle with the residents.

He brought many a smile to the faces of the residents, who were always so pleased to see him.

Part of his work as a therapy dog was working in promoting the therapy dogs at the Melbourne Pet and Animal Expo in 2007 and 2008, the Dog Lovers Show in 2014 as well as the very first Big Day Out for Dogs at the State Dog Centre (KCC Park).

Not only did Benson star in the promotion of therapy dogs at the Big Day Out for Dogs but also won the competition for the Longest Sit back in December 2010, sitting for an incredible thirteen minutes without moving!

Benson also likes to put in his Christmas wishes with Santa as Santa comes to all good dogs.

Benson wins the Longest Sit (13 mins) - Benson sitting on St Nick's lap

Benson, the competition years

Benson gained his first obedience title Community Companion Dog (CCD) in 2009.

Benson was able to compete in dog shows when Dogs Victoria offered a competition for dogs that were desexed. Up until the Neuter competition was introduced only entire dogs could be shown. Benson started his show career and quickly gained his Australian Neuter Champion Title in 2012 with some lovely wins along the way.

Benson won the Neuter Sweepstakes at the Inaugural New Year's Eve Show run by Dogs Victoria.

New Year's Eve Championship Show 2009 (Left) - Winning Best In Neuter Sweepstakes (Right)

 
In 2010, Benson decided to get his paws dirty and have a go at herding. Corgis are cattle dogs bred for driving cattle over the rugged hills of Wales and down narrow lanes into the milking sheds. 

Benson had a lot of natural drive at herding and gained his HT (Herding Test) and PT (Pre Trial) titles.

Benson was a multi-tasking all this time keeping Aileen busy during her “retirement”.

Benson and Aileen continued their community work and over the years were invited guests at Probus RSL, where Aileen gave talks on the work of the therapy dogs in the community.

In 2014 Benson took part in a study by Monash University on the positive effects dogs have on wellbeing and memory. This involved attending an Aged Care Facility four days a week for a month. Benson attended the Mooroolbark Primary School as the children were doing a project on therapy dogs. The students had lots of questions about therapy dogs.

In 2014, Benson gained his qualification as a registered Story Dogs. In the Story Dogs program the dogs attend the school and children who are not confident in reading read to the dogs. Dogs don’t judge or correct. 

Benson is responsible for many children learning to read and developing a love of reading. In this role, Benson was sponsored by The Lions Club of Reservoir.

Benson has been involved in advertising doing a photo shoot with “The Queen” for a software company in 2013. 

This involved Benson and his sister Puzzle posing with the actor at several landmark venues around the Melbourne CBD.

Benson's Lifetime Achievements

Aileen & Benson presented with the
 award at Dogs Victoria AGM in 2018.

Benson’s incredible long standing work in the community was recognized by Dogs Victoria in 2018 when he was awarded their Outstanding Canine Contribution Award.

This award goes to a dog’s contribution to community activities outside of sanctioned performance and competitive events.

Benson continued with his very successful show career and in 2018 obtained the title of Grand Neuter Champion – the first Pembroke in Australia to gain this title. For reference 100 points are required for the Australian Neuter Champion title but for the Grand Champion, one needs 1000 points!

During his competition days, Benson won an impressive 24 Best Exhibit in Group awards, 17 Runner up Best In Group awards.

Benson with handler "Jan"

Additional achievements include 8 Best in Show awards and 9 Runner up Best Exhibit in Show awards.

Many people have helped Aileen show Benson to these awards.  I feel privileged that I was able to show Benson to many of these awards and was on the end of his lead when he gained the final points for his Grand Neuter Champion title. 

Benson was a wonderful dog to show as he absolutely loved to be in the ring!

Featured below (right) is the night Benson got the final points for his Grand Champion title pictured with proud breeders Ray Barwick and David Smith.

Benson did a final lap around the show ring in the Veterans class at the Welsh Corgi Club of Victoria at 16 years of age handled by David – pictured above with breeders Ray Barwick and David Smith (Windyle Kennels) with Judge Mr Peter Flynn (SA).

Benson’s last podium photo was taken at the Canine Museum Championship Show in 2022. Benson has eaten Advance dog food all his life and Advance were the sponsors for the show. Benson got lots of treats to celebrate his 17th birthday.

Benson is featured in the recently published book Comparative Study Cardigan Welsh Corgi; Pembroke Welsh Corgi: A face to face overview based on the FCI standards by Beatrice Quinio in 2021.

Benson's retirement days

Benson’s job is not quite done yet. He still makes sure Aileen walks every day and is still doing his lap around the block. 

He loves sleeping over the heating duct in the house and whilst his eye sight and hearing are not what they used to be, he knows where everything is at home and has full trust in Aileen that she will guide him when they go walking. 

Benson still loves a ride in the car and loves his dinner. Benson is still a regular at dog shows, no longer competing but cheering on his buddy, Pembroke Brooke.

Benson will be remembered by all those who have met him as a wonderful show dog, a character in the performance rings, an ambassador for the breed in his role of Therapy Dog and Story Dog, all testament to his wonderful temperament.

Neuter Grand Champion, Obedience Dog, Herding Dog, Therapy Dog and Story Dog & Aileen’s Buddy 

Sadly, this remarkable life came to an end on Tuesday 21st February 2023. Benson was 17 years, 10 months and 11 days - a life well lived...

as told by Jan West (Llandaff Cardigan Corgis), a lifelong friend of Benson, to Australian Dog Lover (July 2022)