The Crufts Adventure

I guess our Crufts adventure started on Thursday afternoon with a somewhat snowy drive to Swinton. I have to admit I was apprehensive about leaving Steve and equally apprehensive about how Orin and Siska would behave in someone's home. There were no worries, no concerns Steve was fine and the dogs behaviour was impeccable from the beginning to the end of the adventure.  The dogs have never stayed anywhere before and other than being a little unsettled with the heat in the house they did really well overnight. 

The M6, especially the toll was quite snowy with the fast lane being mostly out of use, but we got to the NEC without incident. The long walk from the car park to the halls was really not funny, especially with two dogs eager to get on their way. I found walking on the grass when possible was much safer. I've done that walk plenty of times in December and March to be prepared for any weather. 

Jackie's puppy Kai was in first, there were only two in the class but the other puppy had already done some winning. Kai gave a great performance and won the class, he later challenged the MPD winner and was BPD ... a great start. 

Callan was in PGD, there was an entry of 16 dogs, 14 of which were present. Callan was shortlisted and then placed 1st where he remained till the end of the class. Maybe one of the highlights of the day was seeing Bethan in tears as her precious boy won the class. 

Orin was in straight after Callan, 8 of the 9 entries were present in limit dog. After taking that jump into limit I was really pleased with how Orin looked and went. To be second in that class was an achievement in itself, but to be called in to challenge was just overwhelming - maybe one day, dreams may come true eh! 

To great interest from the public, Siska spent most of the day relaxing in her chair, she must have been the most photographed dog on the day. Anyway, she gave a very nice performance in the ring and held her own in a difficult class with a lot of older bitched, 14 of the 15 entries were present in her class too. I was thrilled with her place and there were some nice bitches behind her. Being on day 5 of her season made no difference whatsoever and other than a quick flirt with Sully, well no one seem to notice.  

I must admit by the end of the day I was desperate to get away, I just want to get some food and come home! Anyway thanks again to everyone who made it possible. Frank and Linda for giving us a bed for night, Ian for driving, Sarah for handling the gang and Linda, Bethan and Joyal for the photos and Ian for the super videos. (All the photos and videos are on Facebook)