Lauren Langman - Agility Training

“Birth is the sudden opening of a window, through which you look out upon a stupendous prospect. For what has happened? A miracle. You have exchanged nothing for the possibility of everything.”

2012-02-19T15:25:00.000-08:00

Eliza Langman-Rouse was born at 2.59am on Thursday 9th February. I can honestly say it is the most painful yet amazing experience I have ever imagined. Seeing her looking at me with her big brown eyes, exquisite and inquisitive all at the same time melted both of our hearts and healed so much in less than a second. She has already changed our lives and yet made everything so complete. Very surreal!

We are completely touched with the generosity and kindness of our customers, friends and family. Eliza now has not only her first bank account but bouquets of clothing, see above, the most beautiful flowers from Greg and Laura who are currently in Oz, beautiful clothing, a portrait of Reef for her nursery, a beautiful picture frame, teddies, bouncers and more. We feel overwhelmed by your cards and kindness in welcoming this little treasure in to the world.

Below notice the card collection around the beams, we shall keep these in her box of things to look at when she is older. There is so much we want to give her, the best life, gorgeous mementoes and to do our very best by her.

Below: Eliza meeting my best friend Lois and Popi. The dogs have been great, curious yet very accepting of our new baby girl, I don't think they know she is staying yet!

And then we jump back to reality, training is all running as usual. I have to be massively thankful to the awesome team I have behind me - you all know who you are.

What do we have coming up?

Mark Laker - 10th March Course Running Day - This looks like an excellent day where we will be running a number of courses and trying to find the fastest and most efficient lines and testing the value of some of our behaviours under a bit more pressure. This day is aimed at the competitive handler only and really is looking to push you to the next level!

25th March Mark and Karen Laker - this day is really aimed to push you to the next level of your agility training. Karen is covering

Rewarding key positions

(any level)

Tunnel turns

(any level)

Movement, attention drive

(any level, incl foundation)

Jump Grids (any level)

She will, as usual, work with all different abilities and we currently have one or two spaces in each group available. Dont miss out on this with your youngsters, dogs that you are improving jump work with and all levels of dogs in the tunnel workshop. Last time I attended this workshop it was awesome and Karen insists there is more to come. As we all know placement of reward is VITAL so dont miss out on any of these. These could be combined so that you attend more than one session.

Mark is working on

Pre season circuit training (G3-4)

Pre season circuit training (G5-7)

Warm up for 2012 courses to get you in the mood

(G3-7)

This is aimed at the competitive handler and will really push you individually with some great groups available. The pre season circuits work all of the drills and challenge both you and your dog. Dont miss out on this opportunity to get ready for the competition season and achieve your potential with these top class trainers on your doorstep

9.00 – 11.00 Grade 1-3 handling

11.30-12.30 YD Contacts/Weaves

1.30-3.30 Grade 4-7 handling

4.00 – 5.00 Young Dogs

These workshops are not to be missed. Jo has been working regularly with DD and we will continue to ask her to come and work with us whilst you are enjoying working within the GD system.

Lastly Jans Canine Development Day - this is one not to be missed!

These have been going down a storm and helping people to work with different types of dogs. On the 4th March we will be covering how do dogs learn?

· Classical and Operant Conditioning

· Aversive and Rewarding Reinforcement

· Stress, Anxiety & Depression

· Counter Conditioning & Extinction

This day is aimed to refresh and renew your understanding of dog behaviour, both for professionals and those who are interested in their own dogs learning. It is a day not to be missed with invaluable learning opportunities.

Also we now have our new, 'recommend a friend scheme.' We have new DD cards where you can write your name on the back, each time a customer books we will ask them if there is a name on the back of their card, if they make a booking you will recieve a £5 money off your next booking voucher and we will also add you to our list for our Christmas draw. We want to improve positive dog training and you can help us to access the people that need it most! If you need any cards please see Fern, Lauren, Kim, Mandy, Vivienne, Sian, Jon, Kelly, Fran, Carole or Matt.

Wishing you all much happiness in your training and hope you take up these days if you haven't done so already!

Lauren, Matt and baby Eliza xxxxxx

"Friendship is always a sweet responsibility, rarely an opportunity."

2012-02-07T02:18:00.000-08:00

I haven't written in such a long time, there is always so much to do, and it seems it will get busier! Today is my due day, it is odd as you can be early, late or on time, now which one would you predict for me, those that know me too well, my friends will know! Matt is on call, marigolds and all.......;)
My friends, I have really appreciated you, all of you, I have certainly been a responsibility, and I hope not too difficult a responsibility but you have all looked after me so well, sweet gifts, hot food at training, drinks, gorgeous baby things - it is really funny how you suddenly realise how many lovely people there are in your life at times like these, a real transitional time. Thankyou all......:)

I am lucky, my body has looked after me incredibly well, if the baby is not here by Thursday I will still hope to be working, I have not had to take any time off, just had to adjust my hours, call in the DD LLAAI to help with some of my regular commitments and ask other people to be as flexible as possible. Everything has gone so well and I can't believe that 40 weeks can pass so quickly.

Attending the midwife appointments has been interesting, they think we are barmy, yet dedicated - probably a fairly accurate interpretation. We have enjoyed it and it is certainly informative, we are complete newbies like those pet owners asking about food/crates/beds/routines - it is no different - we are clueless, but getting more knowledgable all of the time!

In the mean time we have been walking ALOT and training regularly. We live in the most beautiful area - we are very lucky....Below is Glen Free x Reef and Fiji my Darleyfalls baby :)

Training is going really well even though it has been cold people are still arriving - well done to you all!! We have just let people know of some last minute spaces available, here is what we sent out;

Canine Behaviour day – for all of you who have a want to understand more about your own dogs, we have an excellent day on 18^th February which will cover relationship building for both puppies and adult dogs, with our excellent Dog Behaviourist Jan Windsor. This day should be full of variety as well as great for those of you that want to add it to your CPD. Her Day 2 on 4^th March – How do dogs learn? This will cover Classical and Operant Conditioning, Aversive and Rewarding Reinforcement, Stress, Anxiety & Depression, Counter Conditioning & Extinction. This day is aimed to refresh and renew your understanding of dog behaviour, both for professionals and those who are interested in their own dogs learning. It is a day not to be missed with invaluable learning opportunities.

Life Skills dates – the next one we have available is on 12^th February, we currently have 2 spaces available. This is invaluable for all young dogs, and dogs currently in obedience/foundation training. The next date is 14^th April and we cannot recommend these days highly enough.

Walk the Course – our February DD membership offer is a great one. We are offering you the opportunity to buy one – get one free. The Walk the Course workshops are paramount to your learning of how a course works, and being able to talk through the various exercises in a comfortable atmosphere.

Kamal Fernandez Obedience Maestro – we have one working space left on 12^th February, this is a must for all of you who are developing attitude with your agility dogs. The day is aimed to cover lots of motivational and control games to add to your box of tricks. He is not only an entertaining trainer, but a vastly knowledgeable one and we are very fortunate that he has travelled down to the South West especially for Devon Dogs. We also have unlimited spectator spaces on both 11^th and 12^th February.

Sian’s next workshop is on 31^st March. The Young Dogs group is completely full, however there is currently one space on the Grade 3+4, one space on the Foundation, and 2 spaces on the Grade 5-7. If you or anyone you know of that would benefit from Sian’s championship and international level expertise, please come back to me.

Her partner Anthony Clarke is also visiting on 3^rd March and he currently has one space on Young Dogs, and 2 spaces on Flatwork. Again if you are interested contact me asap as we expect these spaces will go quickly now that we have let people know of their availability.

Training on the Ring day is on 17^th March, this day is invaluable to all customers and we thoroughly recommend it. The day is not only of huge value to your learning but also an opportunity to meet and talk to lots of other like minded folk.

We also have the Lakers visiting on 10^th March for the day, Karen working with Relationship Building, and Mark working with Pushing Your Course Work, we currently have one space available on Karen’s day and 2 spaces available on Mark’s day. They are also visiting us on 25^th March where Mark currently has space in his G3-4, G5-7 and G3-7 and Karen currently has some space on all of her workshops.

Lastly Jo Tristram is with us on 8^th March, here G4-7 group is full, however she currently has space on her Contacts and Weaves, G1-3 and Young Dog sessions.

If you havent already joined www.ultimateagility.com keep an eye out and do join for free newsletters and tips - we have recently submitted an 'Ultimate Instructors' article which should make interesting reading for you all.

We really hope to see you all very, very soon. Takecare, please contact us if you would like to come along and join in the fun, you will be made more than welcome here.

Lauren
www.devondogs.co.uk
carole@devondogs.co.uk for enquiries

Dream on....

2011-11-22T06:20:00.000-08:00

Some weeks are good, others aren’t so, you have to learn to dance with the flow of life and enjoy even the slightly more difficult situations. Note to self - learn - I am certainly in the learning phase of this....We are lucky enough to have a lot of wonderful people around – I really do enjoy the DD team which seems to be ever expanding and just getting stronger. We are also getting more knowledgable all of the time - love how training is moving forward!

We had a great weekend, we visited our most local show,caught up with a lot of great people and came home very pleased with the dogs. I sometimes am frustrated with things but I am certainly learning to enjoy each dog for their individual merits, I am less likely to blame the dog for I am more aware than ever that their limitations really are my own lack of time, creativity or willingness to listen to the subtleties that they are trying their very hardest to show me. My favourite run of the day had to be Coastys - he really was flying although Matt and Riot are certainly looking unstoppable and Tikis weave entries are impressing me!

I cant believe how time is flying either, Matt and I have just 11 weeks until we will officially become, dare I say it, parents. This is seriously life changing and scary and I certainly have ups and downs with it I shall blame all that on the hormones however I can say that on the whole it has not been a bad few months and I am very lucky to be 29 weeks pregnant and still running around courses - thankyou body!

On another note Relocation Relocation was on again the other day. It reminded me how much life has changed in a year and how lucky we really are. I feel amazed that one of my fairy tale dreams completely came true.The dreams just keep coming - I think I am beynd obsessed now and at the point of possessed :)

I hope you have all had a good week - the last few weeks for us have been a real pleasure down at Bowerland with great workshops and lovely customers, it really has been very enjoyable. If you are not already visiting for a workshop do check out the huge variety we have going on down here. We are so lucky - take advantage from jump days to puppy days to lifeskills!

Take a look at our website www.devondogs.co.uk on the courses and bookings page and have a browse for yourself. We have some availability on the following workshops:

One space on Awesome Handling this weekend 26th Nov
Lifeskills 2011/2012
Stretcholt 2012
Rebecca Sharples 15th Jan Physio Day
14th January - Canine Conditioning and looking after the Canine Athlete
Canine Development Day March 4th
March Jump Day
Anthony Clarke Jan 8th Attack The Course
Tues AM workshops / Tues PM workshops
Jo Tristram Young Dogs Day - 4th Feb
Jo Tristram Awesome Partnerships Day -Jan 21st

Puppy Development Day 1st April
4th Feb and 31st March Sian Illingworth
Dave Munnings and so much more....

We have so much to offer please see the website to look at our whole selection of workshops and we really hope to see you soon.

If you are not already a DD member please see the information on the website and also our latest newsletter. This month there is an offer on workshops - spend £100 and save £10.

Feel free to send over the bookings as soon as you know what you would like to book on, we look forward to hearing from you.

So much to do.......

2011-11-05T11:18:00.000-07:00

I am so pleased that Lesley Huggins could take some photos of the pups, we have had so little time over the last week it would have been a real shame to miss them!

If you do want any agility/contact/action/weave pics Lesley uses the field at weekends quite often to capture dogs - let us or her know and I am sure she would be more than happy to take pics for you. The canvases she has printed are excellent.

Above are Boost and Spider - both pups are now happily in homes. This week I have been reading Appleby on Habituation and Socialisation. Habituation is described as 'the process whereby an animal becomes accustomed to non-threatening environmental stimuli.'

Although counter condiditioning is an option correct learning is always preferable. Another interesting piece of information for me is that experiments show puppies who have experienced pre stress in early life have a good capacity to cope with it later in life whereas those who do not, cannot cope.

On another note we have had the busiest week and it just seems to get busier, Ultimate Handling only has 24hours until sign up closes so make sure all of you DD people get signed up - what an excellent opportunity to learn from one of the best. See www.ultimateagility.com, sign up closes 6pm tomorrow evening. Lessons will cost £8.30 each. Dont miss out!

Lastly thankyou for your lovely emails re the LLAAI - I had a ball teaching it and cant wait to teach next years level 1s and level 2s!

Lauren xx

'It's what you learn after you know it all that counts.'

2011-10-24T10:54:00.000-07:00

I love learning but this week I have learnt a lesson I needed to learn much sooner - oh my gosh how much effort goes into planning a big course even when all the paper work is done there is so much to sort from lunch menus and ensuring that lovely Sue knows dietary requirements for a lot of people to projectors, large screens, day care for dogs, people management, filing, information, resources, sales items, helpers and most importantly great information. It has been a long process but it is all now coming together. If you are interested in the LLAAI Instructor course level one or level two you can access these via Devon Dogs www.devondogs.co.uk courses and bookings. There are 8 spaces available to people looking for level one and spaces available for level two on completion of level one. We aim to run two to three courses a year depending on time and venue availability. £50 deposit secures and we will hold a waiting list once full. We will cover topics from group dynamics, managing safe environments, awesome contact and weave training, fantastic groundwork and more.

In addition to this the pups are full on, please come and visit Devongem litter 4 if you have time they are fat fluff balls and very cheery souls, Fiji is a dream to work but a monkey 24/7 as she is into everything her confidence is lovely, the other dogs are patient and life goes on - I am also now over 6 months pregnant and I can't believe it is over 6 months now, very scary!

Ultimate Agility is also taking off - if you have not already had time to register please visit www.ultimateagility.com. The free article is excellent.

We also have an action packed winter training programme, please see Fern, Kim, Mandy, Sue, Matt, Vivienne or I if you have not yet had one or email carole@devondogs.co.uk.

I really think that life is for living, and life is what happens when you are busy making other plans. I feel very lucky to have a very supportive team around me - thankyou all :)

Lauren and Devon Dogs

Are you an Ultimate Handler? Do you know what to train over Winter?

2011-10-22T01:46:00.000-07:00

I love the way agility is moving with the times. I sometimes struggle to find consistent innovative dog trainers to work with in Devon and I am so pleased that there are opportunities like this :)

Have you seen this link?

www.ultimatehandling.com/sp/6965-ultimate-agility

We have had a huge uptake of new people wanting better training on handling and innovative ideas so we have really worked hard to try and offer them something. This is great for us and keeps us all on our toes.

We are starting to prepare our winter training programme based around Greg&Lauras online course above, I really do think you will love it if you get a chance to join, birthday, Christmas, and presents galore - I know what I am asking for for my birthday. The nights are now getting colder and darker and the flood lights are now back on, we are going to miss the Summer.

Free and her pups - she is such a good mum :):)

It has been ages since I have blogged and the pups are almost 5 weeks old - they are full of fun and lots of work but will be flying the nest soon but not too far though, they are going to the loveliest homes,

Devongem Freakin Great - Sian
Devongem Free Spirit - Sally
Devongem Born Free - Helene
Devongem Free For All - Mandy

I am so excited as I will be seeing lots of all of them as they all train with us regularly. I feel very lucky :)

Hope you are all well, if you havent had your winter training plan/programme from myself, Kim, Matt, Sue or Fern please ask us asap as these are now available.

See you soon, Mark and Karen Laker today and Kamal tomorrow woohoo!

Lauren xx

What an amazing year we have had....

2011-09-23T01:21:00.000-07:00

After Susan Garrett contacted us at the beginning of the year I thought our years training could not be topped however I am over the moon that we will also be able to offer a camp next year with Greg and Laura Derrett. We are so lucky to be spending good quality training time with some of the best. Our club has gone from strength to strength with so many dogs moving up the grades.

I am particularly proud of Alexis and PC who are already holding their own in G6, Teresa and Indi who has also had trophy places, and Gary and Tagg in G3. In addition to this I have to say it is a complete pleasure to train Jon Woodger who has moved into G5 as well as so many others. Lizzie Rafter is now G3, Fern is G4 and both of these were G1 at the beginning of the year. Lizzie has also just won her first final! Awesome.

We are involved with some great inspirational people, David Munnings was in your Thursday class only last week, how lucky are we? Some great learning going on here and make sure you take us up on as much of it as you possibly can - we love the way you are all developing.

If you are planning on coming to Summer camp with Greg and Laura let us know as soon as possible as we really have very limited spaces now and I am trying to create the best learning community.

Lauren x

It is not what we get. But who we become, what we contribute... that gives meaning to our lives. Tony Robbins

2011-09-18T08:35:00.000-07:00

It is funny - I only realised yesterday that I haven't written about the Olympia experience and my own dogs in a little while, so I thought on a quiet Sunday afternoon I could do both.

It is really funny but over the last few weeks I have felt really good, not at all what people told me to expect to feel like with the whole 'pregnancy experience,' I really feel very energetic, not at all bloated, not tired and not too hungry or craving anything in particular (although I am always hungry and craving chocolate, even Matt won't fall for the chocolate needs.)

So it was a big decision whether to try out for Olympia or not, after I decided to go, it would be a good experience etc etc I then thought fate might choose for me - destiny is a funny thing and something I do believe in. Well I am not quite sure what is going on up there but somehow with only one novice semi day I seemed to sail through without even running and not only that but also into the Large Olympia with Reef who not only had one, but two clears on the day. My dogs really were flawless, and I had to go home beaming. I was overjoyed as Matt also qualified Bailey.

In addition to this I am really happy with Fiji and her progress - she is a credit to the line and I am having so much fun with her. I hope to be able to manage my excitement as at only 8months old she looks and acts so grown up and will work all day so I am having to be very self controlled with her training.

Lastly I love the way you can see the relationship - Fiji, Brooke and Reef are so similar yet different! Love them - beautiful dogs. Well done Sandra Adams!

"All people want is someone to listen"

2011-09-17T02:28:00.000-07:00

I have had a great week this week, some wonderful new customers and exceptional current customers. What I find being a full time teacher is, as I said above, "All people want is someone to listen.' Hugh Elliott. People are really excited about learning and sometimes all they need is someone to allow them to talk and share their agility thoughts.

I have had my good friend Dave Munnings and lovely Dan Shaw to stay this week, they had lots of their dogs plus fosters. I really, really admire the foster work and it was great walking all 12 dogs in the woods, very funny! Dave asked to watch a few classes and as a teacher this is sometimes intimidating initially as I know Dave and I do things differently however it is also useful to both Dave and I. For me I like to have feedback so after he watched I asked him what he thought. His answer really made me think about the way Devon Dogs was set up and what I wanted to achieve. As a teacher I always wanted to empower the learners and his feedback very much linked to that. He said our cstomers have a wealth of information invested in them and they all know how to work harmoniously around each other. This is something I most definately intended I sometimes wonder now for our newer customers how we ever got to this stage. I was happy to hear that though - exactly the learning community I enjoy.

I have watched some great lessons from Mandy, Kim and Vivienne this week and although I am nearly 20 weeks pregnant I cant imagine handing any of my lessons over however it is great having such great people to work with to ensure we meet all of our customers expectiations.

This morning I am planning for our 2011 instructors course, looking at the handouts and welcome pack and ensuring everything ties in together neatly. If you are interested in this the 2011 course is full and operating a waiting list but the 2012 course has some availability at present. Check it out on http://www.devondogs.co.uk/courses_booking.html. We would love to see you there.

Also make sure you have checked out www.ultimateagility.com - there is a great free article on the site entitled, 'The Handler VS The Competitor In All Of Us.' This is a really good learning opportunity, who are you? I certainly know which boat I am sitting in.

“Stand straight, walk proud, have a little faith”

2011-09-13T12:20:00.000-07:00

I am soooo proud! Although we have been so busy, there are never enough hours in the day, we do not stop yet a little time to reflect is good!
Some great results lately Bailey is in every champ final and Popi has been in the last two, awesome! Tiki qualified for the novice olympia, Bailey and Reef for the G6/7 Olympia and Matt and I are over the moon! It is great to qualify with one dog let alone three between us. It will be an interesting Olympia for me however I am really hoping to stay as fit as possible and it gives me something to aim for instead of mooching and getting too big - although I have to say all of my customers winning and bringing cakes is NOT helping!

I am also massively proud of loads of my customers and Matt - it gives me great joy knowing how well you are all coming on. So here goes....I will inevitably miss someone....

Teresa and Indi - Getting to the semis, having an awesome clear in the warm up, unfortunately 5f run in the event. Also looking great in G6 and getting loads of great places already!

Kay and Ry in the ring WOW!

Kay and Blue 2x2nds

Fran and Inga making it to semis!

Alexis and PC looking awesome in G6 and getting a 2nd and 3rd in your first few weeks!

Kelly and Maisie - STEEPLECHASE queen :) Her speed and confidence is growing!

Kim and Buzz, qualifying for beg schase final and winning G3 jumping at Gillingham Champ Show!

Di and Lilly - first show - 4 out of 4 places - what can I say?

Jill and Poppy - winning Beg Agility

Sam and Bo GRADE 6!

Tom GRADE 3 :)

Gail and Rio weaving in the KC ring :)

Mandy and Herb 3rd YAY

Vivienne Wells - UNSTOPPABLE winning everywhere!

Helene - 4 x 1sts in one day - wow!

Lizzie Rafter qualifying and winning into G3 STUNNING!

Sue Rafter and Lyra, Tina and Sue and Molly qualifying for tug-e-nuff WOW!

Sue and Coast 2nd and 3rd

Helen and Maisie winning cakes - YAY

Sian and Spice winning a Schase and Ash 4th in G1&2 Jumping KC

Amanda and Abi G4 WOOOOP

I will have forgotten loads..................I am not meaning to, there are soooooo many!

And a special well done to the Devongem pups too...

Matt winning two G5s easily at Gillingham, winning at KCI - you and Riot look fabulous xx

Fern and Cove G4 now and qualifying for every final under the sun lol :)

Linda and Brooke for winning a G5 at her first G5 show!

Dave and Boss for winning at KCI

Teresa and Zing - some fab places and speed!

Mist G5

Devo one win from G7

Tiki Olympia, G5 and at KCI too!

Chilli - qualifying for semis and being a very very talented girlie!

Bandit easily winning into 7

Well done beautiful pups I am so proud :):)

"Luck is what happens when preparation meets opportunity"

2011-08-28T14:08:00.000-07:00

I have had an awesome week, I feel so, so lucky. It has been really inspiring and I just love working with the Canadians - so much fun! I think it is such a great learning opportunity to work with others and I hope to go back twice next year. I read a lovely comment from the post below that really made me smile, it said, '

You are a really gifted coach and I feel really lucky to have been in camp with you. Thanks again for all the valuable input you gave to Max and myself. '

I really love having feedback and I cannot wait to see some of these people again. Although there are now so many things going on, and now babysitters to find, the whole pregnancy thing is really is starting to sink in, especially now the Canadians have bought me a Maple Logo'd baby grow! Very very funny and cute all at the same time!
We also have a lot to look forward to at home, see my Devongem Blog http://devondogs.blogspot.com/2011/08/reef-x-free-litter-hopefully-coming.html
I am really excited about this and can't wait to see how Free is as a mum, she is a great little dog with just the sweetest temperament. Reefs pups are gorgeous and have been doing so well so I think these two should complement each other well.

We have also had some fantastic results over the last few weeks. Riot, Ash and Buzz qualifying for the Schase final in Dec, Rory and Shadow qualifying for the juniors with Lizzy and Holly, Cove and Mist getting into KCI and DIN finals, Alexis and Teresa both getting trophy places in G6 it wont be long, Helene having four firsts with Archie in one day, Tiki, Brooke and Riot stroming into G5, Tina and Poppy stoming into G2, Coast and Sue Rafter getting 2nd and 3rd with their first two clears, Kim getting a KC third with Buzz - there are so many to mention, make sure you send all of your points to the agility club and if you are not a member here is the link - http://www.agilityclub.org/

I hope you have all had a lovely weekend - we have been training and chilling after a long flight yesterday,

Lauren x

Oh Canada.....

2011-08-23T18:34:00.000-07:00

I have to say I hate flying, I mean I seriously hate it, however the rate of reinforcement once you get here - well it is AMAZING! I will write more asap - I am sorry it is short but hey, there is way to much to do here and way too much fun to be had......

Lots of smiles :)

Lauren xx

“Enthusiasm is excitement with inspiration, motivation, and a pinch of creativity.”

2011-08-07T03:05:00.000-07:00

I have to say that I LOVE teaching - I really do. This weekend we have had puppy camp and it has been great. The people we had were FANTASTIC, my helpers Vivienne, Helene and Mandy were phenomenal and everyone innvolved seemed to take away ideas. It was easy to be enthusiastic because the clientelle gave me so much back. I do have to say I think I have the best job in the world. I am currently editing photos but I will upload them to my fb asap. Thankyou to everyone who has written such great feedback on my page, it is so lovely to know how much you enjoyed it. We also had about 8 people offer to stay here and work - people seem to like Bowerland - well done Relocation Relocation!

The camp seemed to run alot easier than I thought but I think that came down to a lot of prep beforehand. Sue Rafter your food was just GREAT, thanx to you and Lizzie for making such an effort. Val and Sian - I dont know where I would have been without you this weekend - top team!! Matt and my mum for making sure all of the paper work, technology and organisational side is met and Fern for putting all of my resources together. Dad for tidying and strimming for three days solid....ah and a sigh of relief!

With all this hard work in mind are we mad, I think we are BUT we have decided to release our 2012 Summer Camp. It is aimed at all levels and although we are likely to run another puppy camp too we havent confirmed dates and times yet. With Summer camp Dave Munnings, Jo Tristram Matt Rouse and Myself will be teaching - you can pick sessions that suit you and the handling system you use, there are contact, weave, foundation, young dogs, awesome handling, box work, advanced handling, motivation, 110% and more so if you prefer one trainers style to another or want a selection of all trainers this will be possible. Obviously the earlier you book the more choice you have as sessions will fill! There will be two sessions per day and you can gain more info via carole@devondogs.co.uk. The camp site is included and it is a fully functional hookup site with large clean toilets/showers - on booking we allow you to pick sessions and we are really excited about this camp.

If you want to camp, tent, B&B, travel all are options. We will be putting on some entertainment and ask you to book early with a £100 deposit sent to us at DD Bowerland Holiday Cottages to avoid any later disappointment. I know alot of my lovely DD people are planning on coming - you guys also recieve a discount if you are part of the new DD membership scheme!

I am now off to do some work with my own puppy - happy days.

Lauren Langman

“The secret to a rich life is to have more beginnings than endings.”

2011-08-03T12:44:00.000-07:00

So here is the email I have sent to my customers and seeing as I havent blogged for a while I thought I should keep our camp, workshop and blog readers up to date.....

Well it certainly was a shock, first comes the nausea, then the food avoidance, then the tiredness and yes, you guessed it we have recently discovered that we are expecting a baby, and to everyone’s surprise this time a furless version. No one is more shocked than me, well possibly our parents, I am still shocked and I have known for just over 4 weeks. It was certainly not in our immediate plans but Matt and I are really excited all the same and feel really lucky to be part of this rather special roller coaster. I am now almost 14 weeks pregnant.

Our baby is due on the 7^th February, perfect timing I might add for next competition season however most untimely for Olympia! I have to chuckle to myself, I am obsessed and so I am sure a pregnancy won’t be holding me back for long, I really hope some of you are good with babies because we shall need some educating I mean seriously you could all be giving me 121's but Matt and I are both looking forward to learning.

So we wanted to let all of you guys, our valued customers and friends of the blog know first but also wanted to make sure that you feel secure with regards to the future of all of the classes and events which I can assure you by the way is very bright. Our suggested way forward is below and we are also open to suggestions. We will be looking at some of the groupings in particular the Mondays at 7pm and seeing which groups and trainers will work best together. I will look towards resuming a normal working life as soon as our routines are more established in 2012. We aim to have started most of these changes by 1^st November 2011.

Workshops will be taken by both Matt and myself as long as I am feeling well, guest trainers will be invited end Jan-March to make sure you have an action packed few months with information overload and these will be helped by some of my valued DD trainers looking after the guest trainer. So far we have Anthony Clarke, Jo Tristram, Dave Munnings, Sian Illingworth, The Lakers, Kamal Fernandez and more booked.

Mondays will be taught by Fern Jeffery, Kim Loaring, Sian Beardsell and Vivienne Wells. I will lesson support, plan and also lesson evaluate

Tuesday mornings will be taught by Matt unless we let you know otherwise.

Tuesday one off evening workshops will be taught by the ever enthusiastic and energising Sue Rafter, again a long standing client and friend.

Wednesday Lifeskills will be taught by Vivienne Wells and supported by Fern Jeffery and Sian Beardsell. Vivienne is a long standing client and friend and is doing an excellent job with these classes and both Sian and Fern are becoming very well established in this area.

Thursdays will continue to be taught by Matt or myself and we do not plan to change this at all throughout this time. We may also look at putting in a 1.45 class on a Thursday but we need to see if there is sufficient interest first, please let us know if you could make this class.

I have attached our new DD membership scheme which will start from November 2011 although I can’t guarantee I won’t tweak it in the mean time. You can join this whenever you like and membership starts from November although you can book ahead immediately on joining – read the attached information(bloggers if you would like this please email over to carole@devondogs.co.uk) We are also in the middle of planning a very exciting Summer Camp for 2012 with two top handlers and trainers. This will be held locally on a gorgeous camp site tentatively from 2^nd-6^th July and watch this space for more information.

Information overload – that’s me! I would like to finish by letting you all know just how much we both love working in this area, we feel very privileged. Speaking for myself I am passionate about teaching, learning and progression and I hope you can enjoy these exciting changes with us.

Kind Regards

Lauren, Matt and all at Bowerland

"Success breeds success."

2011-06-19T09:07:00.000-07:00

Huge congratulations to Lizzy and Rory for winning out of Grade 1 today - FANTASTIC. Lizzy has worked so hard and Roar has not been the easiest dog - I am SO pleased for you, well done you.

I have been thinking about this alot, the thing that really helps individuals is group success, joint ventures and everyone being pleased for each other.

Some big well dones for grade move ups and qualifers:

PC Grade 6
Roar Grade 2
Cove Grade 2
Tagg Grade 3
Tiki Grade 4
Quinn Grade 4
Atom Grade 2
Lyla Grade 3
Brooke Grade 4
Inga Grade 3

Qualifiers
Tiki, Indi and Riot Olympia Novice
Bailey Olympia Senior
Atom and Quinn Split Pairs
Reef, Lyla and Elsa Tugg-e-Nuff

Again I am sure there are loads more, these are just off the top of my head but HUGE well dones and so so pleased for you.

Make sure you all add your VOICE points, I have become really slack at this lately :) Below proud cousins Cove and Fiji :) Too cute!

Lauren xx

“Coming together is a beginning. Keeping together is progress. Working together is success.”

2011-06-18T02:33:00.000-07:00

In the last week I really have noticed how difficult it is to balance everything, we have been so busy and I wonder when it will end, but I realise this is probably what we need to get used to.

Fiji is my balance break, she loves training and I adore messing with tug, tricks and some groundwork in my breaks - what is yours?

Bowerland is full and DD is manic but I really do hope that we don't lose touch of friends and some fantastic customers in such busy times. Keeping together is progress and working together is success. We have made lots of excellent links in the past year but I dont want to forget our roots. Thankyou to everyone who has helped us get to this stage including our fantastic customers - you really are fab. We have really found our feet and I think you have all played a part.

We have lots of new training sessions planned, I am most pleased with a few new invites as guest trainers Kamal Fernandez top obedience trainer as well as Jo Tristram and Mark and Karen Laker. Everyone is welcome Devon Dogs or otherwise - the more the merrier, it is always fun to ideas share. Make sure you email for more information or keep an eye on the website http://www.devondogs.co.uk/.

Obedience has been at an all time high, all three classes are full with waiting lists, Vivienne and I are taking classes and the proof of people being happy is re uptake of classes so big well done to you Vivienne - FANTASTIC. Vivienne is pacey and exciting and has kept classes running smoothly, punctually and with a real sense of energy so I really feel very ready to hand her the ropes.

Shawn and Rhianna have been doing work experience here, there is always so much work it seems quiet without them, I hope they gained enough experience and realised how much work there is within this industry - it was great to have them.

Gregs seminar was even better than last time as the whole session was spent answering Q&A and contact, weave and dog training topics - fundamental for the future of agility training progression. I am always shocked at who comes and who doesnt, people are mad to miss the theory :)

Lastly the instructor course - 2012 dates are now out as 2011 is full - I really cant wait to get this going, exciting times!

Lauren Langman

'The secret isn't in the knowing, it's in the doing.'

2011-06-12T08:53:00.000-07:00

Devongem does it again :) today Matt qualified for the Olympia semis. I am so pleased for him and riot, they are working so well together! And they were in great company as he was closely followed by Teresa and Indi who had a smashing run! Congratulations to you both for qualifying!

It is great to see a plan come together. At training on Wednesday Jon and Helene really showed how much their partnerships were on top form. This takes timing, commitment and patience! Lots of all of it :) well done you guys!

Others have also been doing well I hear, sam&tom
Winning the pairs&qualifying at uka, kelly moving up to senior, Kim winning a class and qualifying for the tug-e-nuff alongside Jon and elsa. Tina and fantastic poppy having a 1st place I hear too - gosh there will be lots of cake and chocolate this week!

I think that the rain here has tried really hard to put us off but it has been a fantastic weekend :) rehab and tik 2nd&3rd in 1-4 jumping, Matt 1st in g4/5 jumping! Woop! Thames always put on a fantastic weekend even if you do feel a little shattered afterwards! We are off to another big weekend show next weekend & we have gregs seminar and q&a session this week so I am sure it will be a busy week. Congratulations to everyone :)

Lauren

The journey is the reward. Chinese Proverb

2011-06-01T14:39:00.000-07:00

I am sat here drinking pink champagne, the world is GOOD! My best friend Lo is staying and helping and generally making herself busy here, it is a FULL TIME JOB for at least four people living here let alone enjoying here!

Love my puppy - Fiji La is divine :)

I am overjoyed at the weekend, DD had some FAN B*oo*y TASTIC results I mean A-MA-ZING!

Sam winning into G4!! WOOP G3 Agility - G4
Tom winning into G2!!!! YEE HA!
Fern winning her Agility!
Matt numerous places with Bailey!
Alexis a STUNNING run in the qualifier
My Gorgeous Reef winning his 1-7 jumping!
Mary and lovely Reef a 2nd in the qualifier - I am SOOOO pleased for you :)
Lovely Lesley and Jill for getting TROPHIES!!!!!!!!!!!
Jon and Elsa winning into G4 with stylllleeeeee :)
Teresa and Indi - a great agility run!
Kelly and Maisie a 5th, yes a 5th in 1-7 beating numerous g6 and 7 dogs :)

You guys are awesome - I am inspired being involved in teaching you - thankyou for choosing to come to us :)

Most of all, I adore teaching and I love to see you all doing well, but this weekend I also had to be more than over the moon with my new star girlie, cheeky Tiki, it is always hard having dogs like Reef and Pop and then bringing out the youngsters as they have just so much to live up to and I want so much from my dogs, but she did more than that for me this weekend at her fourth KC show winning her jumping and topping my whole year off with the KC qualifier too - by a big margin too! It felt great, like I am able to do this with different types of dogs both with temperament and type and I also bred her - I cant describe it, I feel on cloud 9!

Thankyou Tikstar - today and forever I am grateful to you - you are a sweetie xx :)

Loving it all, especially my friends xxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxx

Live, laugh and learn a little more!

2011-05-29T13:03:00.000-07:00

I am writing this blog from a show as I just feel elated! This weekend has been fun, so many great people to spend time with and so many reef puppies to munch! We have had a ball!

And success too - Reef and I won a g1-7, Kelly had a 5th in 1-7 with Maisie, Jon had a 5th&1st. Jill had a 3rd&4th, Lesley had clears and I know a 3rd, fern had a 1st and 3rd, Linda had a 1st & 2nd, Teresa had a great training run, sam&tom both 1sts and moving up a grade!! I will surely have forgotten someone! You are all too kool! Virginia for moving up a grade!

And for me personally my proudest moment has to be Tiki, Devongem Cantstopper, winning her jumping at packington, I am so proud of her, I could literally burst :):) I don't know why but I never expected her to be able to win a big open jumping course and she more than suprised me! I thought agility would be her thing!

I know a few others did well Dan had a second with code and a few others too - big well done!

I think ultimately keep doing what you are doing because it is paying off - you are all inspirational - particularly my newbies :) you do me proud! Today I am on cloud 9, can I stay?

A wicked few days, 'Just play. Have fun. Enjoy the game.'

2011-05-21T13:30:00.000-07:00

We have had a ball - it certainly has to be my favuourite DCS yet! The customers were all just FANTASTIC, you stepped up to the mark, you gave your all, you were positive and light hearted and all enjoyed the game.

I feel really lucky to be part of this show and the more we do it the better it gets, this year the stable was set up, we had a caravan on site and everyone mucked in. We tasted champagne, wine, mussels and took it all in. Lots of people brought their young agility dogs in Lily, Cove, Buzz, Spice, Coast and more and also some fab puppies Darcy, Fiji, George and more. It was a great few days and we had more than enough tickets for our helpers and supporting friends too - a pleasure BIG pat on the back!

So now we have a moment to ponder, lots to plan and a ray of huge positivity! The cottage website is being updated check out http://www.bowerlandcottageholidays.co.uk/ if you havent seen it for a while and send us any feedabck. We are FULL completely until November I think and we are having so many enquiries for next year with firm bookings - it is really exciting. What I love is that we are having access to training a real mixture of people - it is great! If you fancy a holiday next year or over Christmas be sure to give us a shout - we would love to have you!

There have also been some fab results over the last few weeks, Matt and Bailey are on top form and he qualified for Olympia at the rather competitive big Tunbridge Wells show. Linda and Brooke have really done well, she won yet another jumping to take her to grade 4 - Linda is a pleasure and Brooke is just lovely. Graeme and the rather special Rib went to the dizzy heights of grade 6, it was fantastic to recieve his text with such great news, we hope to see more of him really soon. Kelly and Rosie had a 3rd beating some younger and fitter dogs, this is fantastic seeing as Rosie is almost 11 and Kelly has almost retired her due to the fact she is slowing up and old age is taking over :( Archie and Helene are also on fire, a 3rd last week and a win today! Great Helene, you have worked so hard! Ultimately like the people below you are having fun - keep it that way!

Have a great week,

Lauren xx

“The meeting of two personalities is like the contact of two chemical substances; if there is any reaction, both are transformed.”

2011-05-18T04:36:00.000-07:00

We have been 'Oh SOOO' lucky - I still havent come down. Great company, great trainers and great friends. I feel like we are on a journey and one that I do not want to end. There really is too much to learn and too many new ideas to learn but I am really enjoying all of it.

We had great feedback from club and everyone that attended Susan's workshop - there is a lot to take on. We had quite a few of the Devongem pups there, that was nice and also a few other Reef pups. It is a real pleasure to watch these guys grow and develop I just love their shape.

In terms of lessons learnt there are many but the biggest one for me is that we are on the right track, we have a positive and friendly club ethos and alot of people who are enjoying doing well and helping each other along the way.

We have also had some great news in the last week but I will save that for another day - the future is exciting.

I hope you are all having a good time -

Lauren and all at busy Bowerland.

“You are now at a crossroads. This is your opportunity to make the most important decision you will ever make. Forget your past. Who are you now? Who have you decided you really are now? Don't think about who you have been. Who are you now? Who have you decided to become? Make this decision consciously. Make it carefully. Make it powerfully.”

2011-05-08T15:43:00.000-07:00

You know sometimes we need to feel gratious, lucky to be alive, lucky to have great friends, families, dogs and company, clients and inspirational opportunities and great discussions. All of these are what make me tick, they are my oxygen, what makes me bounce out of bed and want to keep developing.

I cannot get over this year, life has thrown me into some amazing places, better than I ever could have impagined and yet I am so grateful. I feel just so lucky and also so aware of how much I still have to learn, to develop and to improve.

I have also realised the people I spend time with is really, really important to me. The last few days have been so much fun, above see Reef and his new Canadian girlfriends Favor Hill and Feature his athletic relative (some kind of relation) and the gorgeous Encore. These dogs are just beautiful in so many ways.

It has also been great to spend some time with mum, dad and Jonny Hill and John Blenkey - just a fab few days.

So pleased to hear from almost everyone on the workshop with such great feedback - this realtionship is a good one, I can just feel it and I am so pleased you can all be part of it!

I can't wait for tomorrow - contact and weave day - very exciting!

Lauren x

So your winter training plans?

2011-05-01T12:59:00.000-07:00

Go back a few months and look over your last few shows and have you succeeded with your aims? I am so pleased for you guys, wins left right and centre, qualifiers and overall great runs!

Gary grade 3 - how very scary:):)
Kim 2&3rd today!
Reef won his class yesterday and two today and qualified for the tug-e-nuff at his first uka show- best thing being he had four out of four clear rounds! Can't wait to be at the hand!
Kelly winning again :) I am so pleased for you and the sensitive collie girly, you have done just so well to bring her on this well as I know just ho hard you have worked with her.
Karen has had yet another trophy - clever Karen.
Kay and Chesney won the starters club qualifier woop!
Fran& Inga won into grade 3 today-so clever! Pleased for you and your gprgeous retriever girl.
Alexis and her collection of rosettes!
Sue and Lyra back on form with your 2x2nds!
And the biggest well done for sue Howlett and her guys for the knockout final - she will be going to the hand in December! Clever!

A great set of results!

Keep up the hard work - you are so clever all of you :):)

Far too many Mojitos later - thanx sue :)

Roll on more shows and susie g next week yay!

Lauren xx

"It is all in the mind, the power that is!"

2011-04-30T08:19:00.000-07:00

The weekend is off to a good start! Some great runs and a great feeling. Alexis has had a 1st and second, Matt has a 1st with Riot, Reef won his jumping and beat a few cracking dogs and was clear in agility too woop Coast who is 18months old soon had his first ever run too! Tik has done some great stuff and I also hear Kelly and maisie had a win! This is great as kelly has worked so hard with this extremely sensitive girly, she is doing a fab job, big well done to Kelly.

The sun is shining and the company is good and for me this is what it is all about. Sue and her mojitos are just to die for :) It is really funny that although it seems completely obvious I have never really considered how big an effect your company has on you at a show and all I can say is this weekend it is certainly good and does make a difference. I am not a fan of people who like to bring everyone down at shows with negativity and I am not feeling this either at club, training or shows at all so big thumbs up to all of you - great stuff! The other thing I love is how much we all want each other to do well - go get em guys - go for it, you are doing me and yourselves proud x

“Success seems to be connected with action. Successful people keep moving. They make mistakes, but they don't quit.”

2011-04-25T04:53:00.000-07:00

A brilliant show weekend and a lot learnt. Horses for courses and Reef can beat some of the big guns up at the Easter Celebration show and had a couple of lovely runs and worryingly Popi can beat Reef and it is all in the name of learning. We are trying out a few new ideas in training and they are really paying off, it was great to get lil Tiks into the ring too - finally :)

I dont think the club dogs have ever looked so strong, the congratulations list is endless but a few that I didnt add that now need to be added - WOW

Indi and Teresa winning not one but two jumping classes - this is phenominal - Indi is working grade 5 and it wont be long before she is out there with the big guys :) Phenominal!

Tom and Atom winning not one but two jumpings - awesome work - fantastic! What you are doing is obviously paying off!

Karen and Shadow - I hear a trophy at WBSDS and cant wait to hear all about it on Tuesday!

Gary and Tagg 1st and 2nd and now grade 3 - woooop woooop - you guys are on fire, he is a very talented dog Gary now you guys really have a fab partnership.

Alexis and your guys, clears places and some fab runs - BIG WELL DONE - you did a fab job - I really mean it and you are always such great company!

Sue and Lyra - OMG how many clear rounds? See you this evening - cant wait to hear all about it!

Fern and Cove 1st, 2ndx2 and some FABULOUS runs - well done for sticking at it :) You and Cove are lovely together!

Honary mention to Dan and Code - you guys have had a brilliant weekend I know - woooop Grade 3 Ditto. Mel and Gary - some fab runs and your 3rd Mel - excellent - wish you were closer.

Vivienne - How many trophies? WOW!

Linda your KC run was stonking - a close one xx

Kim, Kelly, Helene, Kay, Lesley, Jon and all of the others mentioned for there results on other days and just fab runs - in particular Matt and Riot - you guys are looking stunning ;) Both of you :)

I so dont want to gloat but OMG I am just so so pleased for you all :)

Cant wait for training this week - lots of ideas - my head is BUZZING! Lovely lovely jubbly scrumptious :)

Above is Rock - lovely to see him so happy and focused at the show - well done Jon - photo courtesy of Lesley Huggins.

And above the gorgeous Boss - Dave and him looked fab at the weekend :)

Lauren xxxxx

"The future belongs to those who believe in the beauty of their dreams," E. Roosevelt

2011-04-24T00:15:00.000-07:00

Well where do I start with the well dones? Everyone has already achieved so much this season and yet we are one or two shows in!

At CB show Gary had 2 x 2nds - wow! Kelly had a 2nd and 3rd and Jon a 1st and 2nd and thats what I know of :)Then this weekend all I can say is AWESOME! Firstly well done to sam for going grade 4 your dogs are fast and talented and you are doing great. Huge congrats to lovely Mary for qual for adams derby and also a 1st and 4th :) well done to Karen for her agility not sure of place yet, sue and gorgeous ninja and your 4th and Jon with elsa 2nd and 1st woop! Teresa and d with your 7th in the novice q run, Pete and your 5th, Vivienne and your1st, 5th, 2x2nds and 5th, and fern and cove your 2nd&kim on 3rd,4th&7th with lil ly Kelly and your 4th and nov qual clear, and omg I will have forgotten loadsa people!! Lesley and fin your 5th well done xx Tom and your win yesterday, gary and your clean run today / ok Devon dogs is getting way too many results ..........I so hope you are agility voice members as it really could be a very successful year!

A special well done to Virginia and cyn - a 2nd at your first kc show and a win with baby d - well done you.

And for the others who didn't run clean well get down and dirty with your training and I so know you can do well - you have some amazingly talented young dogs and I can't wait to see them do well this year!
Matt and I are so impressed and we still have a whole day of competition to go - big well dones all around!

If I have forgotten anyone I promise it is not personal - I just can't keep up!

“The excitement of learning separates youth from old age. As long as you're learning you're not old.”

2011-04-16T14:30:00.000-07:00

And wow what a week....

I honestly don't know when this rollercoaster is going to slow down but hey I am enjoying the ride now I am in to the swing of things. Life is just full of suprises!

This week has been one of development, for both me personally and for our clients. We have had the pleasure, yes I did say the pleasure of Greg Derrett, it was great to have his input and he delivered alot of information in a short period of time. He is due back at Devon Dogs on the 15th June. We cannot wait!

On another note the cottages are now pretty much full until Nov/Dec and I cant say how much I am enjoying the new customer base in addition to our already amazing clientelle. I have to say there are some fantastic people in agility. Amongst the top few has to be this weeks Graeme and Rib, Graeme had the most fantastic attitude to both learning and his relationship with his dog, and he was so open to learning, it was a real opener as it made me appreciate teaching this type of individual. He has high aims this year and all I can say is I look forward to seeing you in 6&7 soon. The very best of luck!

Lastly congratulations once again to Gary - 3rd today at a much bigger KC show and 6th in G5 for Teresa - I am pleased the hard work you have put in this Winter is paying off. Thats about 6 DD trophies in about three weeks! Brilliant!

Looking forward to the Easter shows, this is my last weekend of training and then the Summer shows kick off, I am really excited about our first show of the year this weekend and am ecstatic we are not having to camp yet, I love camping but prefer to wait until May. Cant wait to see you all at the shows,

Lauren x

“You have to learn the rules of the game. And then you have to play better than anyone else.” Einstein

2011-04-06T15:23:00.000-07:00

My, my!

If you haven't already seen this check out, http://susangarrettdogagility.com/2011/04/%e2%80%9clife-is-a-gift-and-it-offers-us-the-privilege-opportunity-and-responsibility-to-give-something-back-by-becoming-more%e2%80%9d-anthony-robbins/

Homeward bound was fun, films, sleep, sunshine and reunited with happy healthy dogs and lovely Matt :)

Thankyou to everyone who has kept the show on the road whilst I have been away, I have been asked to teach in various places over the next year and although I am unlikely to undertake many of these offers it is good to know that I can. You guys are a fantastic team. Coooooool.....

I had such a relaxing time too - as you can see from above, we had our own lounge, HUGE projected tv and best of all I discovered the fire - OMG I want a house like this, Relocation Relocation TAKE 2! Actually on a more serious note it made me consider our future, I love Devon and enjoy Bowerland ALOT but I think we will be looking in to purpose built accommodation - it was just phenomenol!

Lastly Swagger, what a gorgeous puppy, here he is running with one of Matts Tug-e-nuff toys, and Susan having a ball. Her natural relationship and adoration for this dog was just awesome, a real pleasure to observe.

Thankyou to all of the great students over there - particularly Linda - you are just too "cute" and you had me in stitches doing the English accent, "PreTTy."

ON A HIGH,

Lauren xx

"Imagination is more important than knowledge."

2011-04-04T18:23:00.000-07:00

Canada is so much fun, I am really enjoying spending time here, great friends, students and of course Susan and John too. I have learnt so much and yet feel we have only been here 5 minutes and it is time to go!

I heard some great results from the weekend - well done to you all!

Gary and Tagg 2nd x 2 in both agility and jumping wooooop woooooop!! A FANTASTIC START TO THE YEAR at your first KC show!

Jon and Elsa 1st in your first show of the year G3 Jumping and 2nd Agility or am I mad - did I hear it wrong ?? Woohoo you guys are soooooo fab :)

And was it a 3rd for Kelly and Maisie??

Well done to you all - I think it is going to be an awesome year, I really do :)

Lauren xxxxxx

"The important thing is not to stop questioning. Curiosity has its own reason for existing."

2011-04-03T17:46:00.000-07:00

Today has been another great day. I have learnt loads and cannot wait to share some new concepts with my fantastic students - I miss you so much :) As well as obviously Matt, the dogs and my lovely family.

The snow here is amazing, I am looking forward to some more learning and then seeing Fiji face who has been staying with friends and also Matt. Poor Matt has been so busy.

Cant wait to see you all,

Lauren x

"Anyone who has never made a mistake has never tried anything new." Albert Einstein

2011-04-02T21:20:00.000-07:00

I can't quite believe how much fun Sandra, Moira and I have been having. This place is not just good - it is great! We are learning 24/7!

The best bit is it is all so much fun, and so healthy and I can't wait to start working on you guys - as usual progress is the way forward - we must continue to expand our horizons. I am not saying that we are perfect, we have all made mistakes, the best thing we can do is to continue to exeriment and ultimately enjoy the process.

The funniest thing - the tug-e-nuff toy made it to Niagra and then - jumped! Swagger puppy played with the toy first though - great stuff :):)

Life is full of surprises, isn't it? ~ Charlton Heston

2011-03-30T16:22:00.000-07:00

Well here I am - Canada at Say Yes - AMAZING, really can't believe it right now - it is all a little surreal to say the least.

Hoping that I will come home even more energised and excited and relaxed - after all we are staying at Susan's and she has a therapy pool - luxury.

Hoping that you are all having a fantastic week.

Lauren

xx

Thankyou to all of the people that are helping with my guys - you are just FAB xx

"My crown is in my heart, not on my head, Nor decked with diamonds and Indian stones, Nor to be seen: My crown is called content: A crown it is, that seldom kings enjoy." Shakespeare

2011-03-19T15:38:00.000-07:00

Dare I say it - I think lots of us here are feeling a little contented, we must take a moment to enjoy that feeling. Clients are feeling happy, I am having some really positive feedback and some great ideas from customers, show season is nearing and we are planning for Suasns trip to the UK as well as our trip to Canada. The dogs are looking good and some in particular are going to have a great show season, I can just feel it :) Well done you guys - I am sure you will reap the rewards, you have worked hard all Winter!

A few gorgeous soundtracks to the last week or so - one of them won't stop playing in my head - skinny love :):) Love it - too gorgeous.

Here in Devon I would say I have had the most enjoyable 6months of my life - probably partly due to us finding Bowerland, it was a rollercoaster journey, and thankyou to all of those people who helped us along the way, I will not forget your input. But I also feel that there are times in life where you really recognise change in yourself as a person and a professional in your field.

For me the things that have changed in my life both since the move amongst other things are -
- Living more conciously
- Self acceptance and realising what you are about
- Self responsibility (to a degree I still rely a whole lot on a few very hard working people :)
- Living purposefully
- Personal integrity

The move, great support networks and an amazing 6months have allowed a huge amount of development here. We are working towards the idea of our own Summer camp here, another possible holiday let after all we do have the PP, the small barn being moved over to the school and a bit of an upgrade to the school. The future - we are ever hopeful.

Today I am more than grateful for inspirational people, great support networks and a great group of people to work with today - after all it is the people you work with who make it :)

Lauren x

Imagination is the highest kite one can fly - Lauren Bacall

2011-03-13T12:48:00.000-07:00

I always imagined that Susan would teach here for us, however I really did think it was pie in the sky, and really not something that would ever happen but hey pigs really do fly - SUSAN is coming to the UK, to Devon!!

We feel incredibly lucky, the DD people are over the moon and chomipng at the bit and we are getting huge numbers of enquiries from outside clubs too. It is full on numbers pretty much, we now just need to select who is coming for working/spectator spots and operate a waiting list.

The most exciting thing is that Susan will be bringing her own dogs and using them to demo and teach. It will be a very exciting week and I do hope that you can come!

On another note it is suddenly Spring here at Bowerlands, a little early but it is heaven. I have added a few photos of Fiji and Coast, both happy in the sunshine. The school is a godsend and the grounds are starting to look really pretty.

Wishing you all a great week,

Lauren xx

There is always, always, always something to be thankful for.

2011-03-05T10:45:00.000-08:00

I was looking back over the last year and I am thankful for so many things. However I am also aware that we are lucky, all of us, to be able to enjoy time. All of my friends who read the blog have time, time for life, their dogs and their families and friends to one degree or another and today I feel really thankful.

I have had a great day, with the company of my friends, family, dogs and more. I was reading back over some old material and it reminded me of an agility friend, one who is sadly no longer with us now but whom I am thankful I knew.

Gary Woodham died very recently from cancer, it came as a real shock to me that someone so young could die so quickly. He was always kind, friendly and had something great to say, I love people like this. We are not blessed with their company for long enough.

So today is a day to be thankful. I am pleased with how everything is, I hope we all have learnt from our mistakes both past and present and am looking forward to tomorrow, we are lucky to be enjoying the Spring - life is a gift, we must value every moment.

"The past is history. The future is a mystery and this moment is
a gift. That is why this moment is called "the present"

I am currently preparing for Canada and can't wait for the opportunity to explore a new place :)

Thankyou Gary - it was a pleasure knowing you.

Lauren xxxx

"When your physical environment is in alignment with your aspiration, success becomes the norm." -- Susan St Lawrence

2011-02-27T10:44:00.000-08:00

I want great things for both myself, my family, my friends and colleagues and my customers. This weekend has been very interesting and has really made me realise this - I SO want them all to do well. In fact I am really looking forward to this year for us all - we seem to have really turned a corner.

Particular well dones to Kelly and Maisie and Karen and Shadow and Alexis with both dogs - both Mark and Karen commented on how much progress you have made as well as many other club dogs :) It was a proud day :) Well done!

Today was busy too, thankyou to Val and Sue H for their great home baking at Bowerlands - and of course to my mum too who is becoming a great cake chef :)

It was lovely to have Jo Tristram and Tuesday Fijis sister to stay too and all in all some great company and great customers who want to make progress - I wish you all well - I really do and am looking forward to our camping trips and successful shows to come.

As an added bonus today I even managed to train my own dogs at 5.30 - I was so excited as it was an unexpected opportunity - lovely :)

Below is Jo's Tuesday with her dogs - awwww - pups had great fun today :)

Have a great week,

Lauren xx

"The best way to prepare for life is to begin to live."

2011-02-25T12:48:00.000-08:00

Some people in life come and go, these people are part of our lives but maybe not too significant, others are more long lasting, they make an impact, a lasting one and it seems like they have come for a reason, to inspire, to love, to dream or just to have fun.

I feel very lucky to have many people in my life who do this for me, they are not only important to me but very special. Today I feel lucky enough to have had a day of development with one of these people. He is not only inspirational but kind and straight talking - I really appreciate his input in my life and feel lucky to have people like this surrounding me - surrounding yourself with positivity feels great :) Things just seem to fall into place right now.

In addition to this I have seen loads of our pups this week - they also make me smile alot - below is Brooke - a real pleasure :)

Wishing you all a great weekend :)

Lauren xx

All growth depends upon activity. There is no development physically or intellectually without effort, and effort means work.

2011-02-20T13:17:00.000-08:00

A great day of development at Bowerland with Trevor. I really enjoy days like this.

On another note both the dogs and I have had some other personal development time. They have learnt to come out with the horses and I have been learning how much fun it is to ride again and also enjoy the company of great friends :)

I hope that you have all had a great weekend, I am very tired after another two hours hacking today - thankyou Gemma Hanekom and Neill :)

Lauren xx

“Learn everything you can, anytime you can, from anyone you can - there will always come a time when you will be grateful you did.”

2011-02-18T16:12:00.000-08:00

Some would call it a holiday, I am going to call it an opportunity!

I don't like leaving my dogs, I really don't like flying and yet Sandra Adams has just booked our tickets to Canada, yes Canada, am I mad? No, I tell myself, this is an opportunity. I am really excited to be travelling with friends and also taking a few days off - for my own socialisation needs - oh Sandra you will be sick of my excitement by the end of the flight :) let alone the rest of the hol!

I am buzzing already but cannot believe I will be leaving my Fiji pup so young, but I have had floods of offers of dog holiday homes and Fiji will be staying with my good friend Linda or Becky, Lindas dogs are all gorgeous and Becky has ponies, chickens and lovely children so either way she will be in good hands. Coast will stay with my great dog trainer friend Kim and the others will stay with Matt at Bowerlands.

This is certainly a massive opportunity, I will be staying at the inspirational Say Yes venue with Susan Garrett, and hopefully learning and developing so that I can bring new information to the depths of Devon.

So life, opportunity, planes and all - anyone got any ideas on my ears popping - did I say I hate flying? Do I feel that our lives are charmed right now - hell yeah :)

Below is Fiji - between her and Coast they make me giggle alot right now :):):):)

Lauren :):)

“Dream as if you'll live forever. Live as if you'll die today.”

2011-02-09T12:08:00.000-08:00

If I was to die today I really would say I have no regrets right now. The business, the house, the dogs and my life. On the whole I am very happy with my lot. I am however sometimes a little indulgent. If I really want something I will do my very best to get it, whatever that might be. Persistent, determined and cautiously optimistic - thats me! Saying all that I would prefer not to die right now :) It is all great fun.

That brings me to Fiji - well at least that is her name at the moment she may arrive in Devon and not suit it but suits her right now. I am so grateful to Chris and Sandra, I loved this pup from day one and today I had to decide which pup I wanted so that everyone else could then decide and I was relieved when I realised that she was available and that Little Miss Perfect is going to be mine VERY SOON. I don't need a puppy but then who does? And at the end of the day if I didnt have her I know I would regret it and lets face it we have the space. I do however want this puppy - oh my, I cannot wait :):) No regrets eh?

Here are a few pics of the pups - Chris has been fantastic, always welcoming his puppy visitors, great with the pups and really easy going. Sandra is a great friend and I am grateful that I am being allowed to have another fantastic Darleyfalls puppy. In my opinion this is one of the best lines in the country right now - I am very lucky :)

So little miss perfect will be destined for Devon - I really cannot wait - Thankyou to Sandra, Chris, Hazel and obviously Rocky, Pip and Stig for such a gorgeous mass of pups to snuggle, I cannot wait to come up again xxxxxxxxx

"Move out of your comfort zone. You can only grow if you are willing to feel awkward and uncomfortable while trying something new."

2011-02-06T11:01:00.000-08:00

Comfort Zones - I have certainly been out of mine lately, training new groups, new people, new venues and new time management strategies - thankyou Mark Laker and Virginia Harry for your help. I am overwhelmed by the interest we currently have but also excited - it is an time for development I suppose. Thankyou to Susan Garrett for her post on this topic :) I am almost a disciple Sandra Adams ha :)

Training has been fantastic lately, we have some great dogs in the pipe line, both our own and club dogs, I am so impressed with the quality and level of these partnerships.

There are so many I will surely miss a few but Thyme, PC, Indi, Riot, Tiki, Brooke, Tagg, Lyra, Coco, Bob, Elsa, Shadow, Lyla, Maisie, Archie, Bo and of course soooo many more are all shaping up particularly well at the moment and I am working with many customers closely on developing these dogs.

I am also pleased about Stretcholt - we have a regular booking this year and I hope you all get your dates in before it fills.

Lastly we are really looking forward to our Greg Derrett Handling Theory Seminar, this is almost sold out and will be fantastic for developing our understanding - the club is in exciting times :)

Lauren and all at Team Devon Dogs xx

"Our doubts are traitors, and make us lose the good we oft might win, by fearing to attempt."

2011-01-22T14:13:00.000-08:00

I feel very lucky - a great day, great feedback and some fab new customers as well as some current regulars.What I love is you have no doubts, you understand what you are doing and there is no fear of failure.

Karen. Sam, Vivienne - progress is apparent! Linda, Teresa, Sian, Pete, Kim - your partnerships are fab. Jill, Roger, Manda, Shelley, Kay you guys are inspiring and SARAH and GARY- wow today! There are loads more of you - I apologise, I am as usual multi tasking!

Today we had some young dogs first thing, then some puppy dogs, then walk the course and lastly jump skills. What a fun filled yet informative day! Well done to all that took part and I hope to see you on our next skills day or Karens skills day really soon.

Lovely,

Lauren xx

"Be not afraid of greatness: some are born great, some achieve greatness, and some have greatness thrust upon them."

2011-01-21T16:21:00.000-08:00

Back at ya Dan Shaw ;)

Be not afraid of greatness: some are born great, some achieve greatness, and some have greatness thrust upon them.William Shakespeare

What a fantastic, inspirational quatation - and so true. What I find inspiring about agility is that greatness is accessible to the masses, whether they choose the right paths to it, that is their choice. The fact it is possible is the bit that keeps me smiling! I remember these paths all too well with Popi, at 19.5 months old she was the equivalent of a Grade 6 dog, she was grade 7 at 2 years old and fantastically talented, imagine being me (ha - David Munnings) the choices were massive - I could train as I always had or continue to learn and improve with my first ever bred agility dog.....we are constantly developing. There is a lot of choice for owners out there today, I definately feel I made the right choices for both Popi and I.

I was reading on a blog the other day - "You shouldn’t want your novice dogs to be frantically grabbing obstacles, squirreling around like mad. The power and the speed will come, but the time spent working on the finesse will pay off down the road. It is far easier to teach collection and thoughtfulness to your young dog before they realize they are equipped with a 400 horsepower engine and a set of Pireili tires– then after!"

It really made me think, we do ask a lot of our agility partners, rightly or wrongly this is a valid point!

I am currently working with a fantastically talented group of young dogs, they are between 14 and 16months old and have come to us from the start - I really hope they are enjoying it as much as I am. I will post some videos of them shortly and have already put some bits up on my fb - do check it out :)

Bowerland has been a pleasure the last few days - I really do feel very lucky to be able to live here. I have attached a few photos from in the week - my Tuesday morning group have a lot of fun here, there are 8 of us and the woodland walks, scenery, good company and of course agility make it all a real pleasure.

'Lord, what fools these mortals be!'

2011-01-17T15:47:00.000-08:00

Before anyone worries about who on earth I may be talking about....I am just chatting generally! I was asked the other day if I was blogging referring to one particular person, to be honest I dont have the time or the inclination. It really does make me giggle though that people think we would do that - there really is no need to make others unhappy, we are contented people. I really enjoy everyone we train and spend time with - I feel happy that our club is a happy and lively place right now and feel pleased with some changes - it is funny how things just fall into place sometimes and everything just feels right, you all know what I mean, when it just clicks. Some things happen for a reason and whatever the reason that makes me happy.

Since the programme went out last week and tonight we have been MANIC down here and actually 'Lord, what fools these mortals be!' I really must stop working like this. I am off now for a couple of days which is great, a chance to see a friend and have a couple of days off with Matt. Matt is going to cook and my friend and I will watch hehe :)

Re the dogs they are fab at the mo, you wouldnt know Pop has had pups and she has welcomed Rock, Boss, Rhyme and friends into the house - this monkey has really calmed her naughty self down. Free is a monkey - wild as ever. Coast is just my boy, a really honest dog. Reef = My Love :) Tiki is a cheeky thing but I can honestly say I adore her. Bella - NOISEY! And as lively as EVER! Matts boys are looking great too. They arent really doing loads at the mo apart from classes weekly which I really enjoy. I love the people I work with and the dogs and of course the friendly banter too.

It was lovely having lots of you at Bowerlands. I hope you all have a great week. I cant believe we filled three rooms - Kitchen, Froom and my room :) How many on a bed? Including Rock and Popi - Ruff Love???????????? We have lots to look forward to, day workshops with farmhouse lunches, cakes and coffee, lovely woodland walks, friends, family and love. Enjoy xxxxxx

"To sleep, perchance to dream"

2011-01-05T15:40:00.000-08:00

"To sleep, perchance to dream-
ay, there's the rub."
The above is so true, I so rarely stop, we are in a busy period, we never seem to stop, thank god for the dogs, good friends, Matt and my family - you all keep me grounded. And dreams too - you help!

Shakespearean Quotes are going to be my theme for a while, I was reminded recently how much I loved Shakespeare at school, thankyou Adrian :)

Bowerlands is busy, had some great training with 5 other G7 dogs on Tuesday, had far too many beverages in the evening and cuddled puppies to soothe my head the next morning. Life is great fun but my new years resolution is for organisation and balance - so let us start with some sleep :)

We have a house warming and Relocation Relocation party on Thursday - food, drink and good company - open house - it should be really nice. I hope to see lots of you there :) I know I have spoken to lots of you but do let us know if you are coming so we make enough food :) It should be a lovely party evening :) David Munnings is also gracing us with his company - a High Profile Agility Party - he is also staying at Bowerlands :)

Lastly we have put a new workshop on in April - creative agility - make sure you dont miss this one, it only went out Sunday and already has just two spaces left :)

Below is Coast - a pic from a few months ago - he is a very lovely boy :) kind, honest and very loyal - I really do enjoy him.

The Most Perfect Training Time

2010-12-30T07:39:00.000-08:00

The last few days a few friends/colleagues/clients and I have been training, remotely at times, but training all the same and it really has been lovely. Sharing ideas and learning and talking to each other. It really has been great fun and I will post some videos of the progress soon. Lovely to have clients/colleagues/friends to develop with - I am very lucky having such great people to link in with and touch base with.

The little ban here at Bowerlands has been a god send, and Newhall too. They have both been great to rely on in this crazy weather and havent stopped play!

Below is a video of Pop and Rhyme - Devongem Dante.

It is great to have the Lakers staying in 'The Hayloft' at 'Bowerlands' as they are just such great friends and we really enjoy not just their company but their lovely dogs too, particularly their two Devongem boys :) G5 Devongem Crystal Method and 12 week old Devongem Dante. It is a real pleasure :)

Hope you are all enjoying a wonderful break :) and I cant wait to share some of these wonderful ideas with you in the new year,

Lauren xxxxx

And the snow....turns to slush and the barn is a godsend!

2010-12-27T15:02:00.000-08:00

Am really pleased I am on holiday now - the weather is crazy, first snow now slush puppies!!

Am over the moon with some photos a friend sent me recently - as well as being a very passionate dog trainer I am also a really proud and dedicated breeder. I really want to do my part with breeding 'good' type BCs and agility dogs. Below are pups from my recent two litters and I am so proud - they are not only gorgeous but talented too and I couldnt be happier - their owners are a pleasure and I definately enjoy this part of having puppies :)

What I love about these photos is you can see what a little monkey Ditto is, and how Reef Boss is :)

Lovely :)

Back to training although I am off the barn has been busy - if you would like to book in for an hour email or text me and if there is a gap I am more than happy for you to hire it - it is definately better it gets used as the wet slush snow is not exactly ideal to train on :)

Lauren xx

Olympia excitement and more puppies....

2010-12-22T12:03:00.000-08:00

So Olympia has come and gone - my god it happens so fast - I need more than one dog there as I just need to be there for a few days - I just love it!

This year, although I had been really quite poorly beforehand - I even managed to get a prescription for an inhaler and antibiotics - I definately felt very confident in Reef at this level. He was just great and although we got elimninated at the very end it was a pretty good E if I do say so myself :) I love that the crowd go ahhhh and that the commentator said he was at 11 seconds just after the seesaw and compared to lots of others that seems pretty fast even with his very eloquent spin before the a frame. I definately felt that I could trust him and that he has grown up alot and feels very ready for grade 7 and the next Olympia he attends he will be up with the big boys. I did call him at the end expecting him to carry on blasting ahead of me in the excitement of that atmosphere and I wasn't quick enough to correct my cue however he really is showing that he is fast, responsive and able to listen to cue at that level - I do love this boy :) Below is his vid - I am having running lessons for Christmas ;)

We also have some great news in that Reef is expecting another litter with the gorgeous merlie girlie Hoax - I really cant wait to see if there is a merlie Reef. I do have to say I am not a massive red merle fan but I do love blue merles - particularly real blue blue merles if you get what I mean - so will be interesting to see what they have - Gem has said they are the Designer litter of pups :) AWWW :)

Above is Reef - he is so proud and I do have to say I couldn't love this dog anymore if I tried - Darleyfalls No Feer - I am so happy you are mine :) lovely lovely boy xx

The Devongem boys and winter preparations....

2010-12-08T11:22:00.000-08:00

Devon Dogs is definately winding down for Christmas. Olympia is coming up and we have some time to relax and enjoy the festive spirit!

Lesley Huggins, a close friend and customer has taken the pics below. Really nice to see all of the boys looking so healthy.

Devongem Dark Knight - out of Popi x Fen

Darleyfalls No Feer - 3years old

Just Coastin at Devongem

I really adore my dogs, I don't know what it is but there is something so special about these Devongem boys.

Hope you are having a productive day :)

Lauren xx

Well it was certainly different...

2010-12-04T14:07:00.000-08:00

Today Matt and I had a day off, a very unusual phenomenon! Gorgeous Rock left yesterday a VERY spoilt, confident and well adjusted little puppy. He was just gorgeous, very OTT and great at tuggy - just the type of puppy I would pick but I don't regret my decision not to keep one, I have my eye on a pup next year and these pups all had such fantastic homes lined up I could not say no. I am really pleased Jon has him and cant wait to see him progress with DD as a future star.

So Matt and I had a very different day, we both get on so well lately it is really great to have someone like minded to spend time with and have fun with. We have been through thick and thin with the first house move, the caravan and now the new house but finally we are settled and it feels good.

We had lunch in wagamamas - great food, great atmosphere and really, really buzzy! I spent far too much money, my new accessories are amazing (thanks to the help of my personal shopper;);) and came home very happy :)

It was also great knowing that someone was back at the house looking after everything whilst we were out as often having dogs taking a whole day away doesnt sit comfortably but our new lifestyle seems to be sitting very well. We have lots of friends and family to lean on and mutually support when needed. Val has been trying out some work at Bowerlands too and lucky as poor Fern has fallen at home and so Val is able to help cover. It is a great community of friends and support and it just makes life so much more fun.

I am grateful to all of those around us and all of my friends too. I am also grateful to my life coaches - you are fab and you know who you are ;)

"If people around you aren't going anywhere, if their dreams are no bigger than hanging out on the corner, or if they're dragging you down, get rid of them. Negative people can sap your energy so fast, and they can take your dreams from you, too." ~ Earvin Johnson

I am so pleased to have such fab people around, the last few months have been mad but by surrounding myself with people that ooze positive vibes has really made it all much more manageable. I also love it that we have had so many friends at Bowerlands - the cottages, house, spare rooms and even the caravan has been full. I cant wait for Summer bbqs and wine :)

Below is a summer vid - we need to watch these this time of year to remind us that the lovely ground will return. It was taken two years ago and I love the progress that Reef has made but also adore this dog 100000000 times more now and dread to think how much more I will love him in the future - I may burst :) :) Have a good Sunday........

A brilliant evening....

2010-12-02T15:14:00.000-08:00

Well tonight was lovely, the snow set the scene, the people are fab and the atmosphere is great, everyone enjoys everyones company and celebrates everyones success and DD really has team spirit. It is funny as not all groups gel but the Thur night groups just seem to have that feel good factor, I am not sure why all I can say is if I could bottle this feeling I would - I know it is what success is made of - I can just feel it. Long may it continue.

Thursday Night Training - Christmas Drinks & Lovely Food
We must've been mad..... -3.5 degrees, and that was inside!!!

Rock learning VERY naughty habits at his first agility class??? Mulled wine!

~~This is Dobbie~~ - sorry - mistaken PC!!!

Ahhhhhhh.........the start of a beautiful relationship!

Jon and his new 'Babe Magnet' puppy Rock

Thankyou to all of the Devon Dogs club for making this year so fantastic. We really hope to continue our success into 2011. Have a fantastic break and we will see you fresh in the new year :)

Picking a groom for Olympia and preparation....

2010-11-29T16:05:00.000-08:00

The last few months have been so busy, my feet rarely touch my lovely new heated floor in my new pad at Bowerlands but I am loving it......

It definately has been more difficult this year picking a groom for Olympia and normally it would be Matt however Matt has done fantastically well in 2010 by qualifying not only for the novice with Indi but also for the Large KC Olympia Stakes with Bailey. This is a massive achievement and I am really proud of him not only as his partner but also as his very accomplished trainer ;) ;) I am really impressed :)

Therefore he can't be my groom. So the search was on and I narrowed it down to three people who I really thought I would work well with on the day Sian, Kim and Helen. These three people are not just clients but also trusted friends who always make me feel good. Kim is coming to watch, Sian is looking after our dogs and Helen Brown who is my groom :) She is really excited and so am I.

I am sure they could all be there in their own right one day, particularly Sian who is just a baby at the sport - at just 16 she is already an amazing dog trainer - see Spice below Dash of Spice at Devongem.

So Helen and I are excited we have the hotel sorted as well as car parks, meals and I am really pleased to have the benefit of a good and very trusted friend coming along with me. The next week or so is looking great - Stretcholt, Thurs Christmas group, training with a friend, WAO qualifiers and some time off in a holiday cottage with the dogs up country. Lovely :)

Lauren xx

A day of development...

2010-11-28T11:55:00.000-08:00

Days like these are what life should be made of....

Today we had fabulous friends, trainees, discussion and learning. I definately feel like everything is starting to fall into place. It was lovely to have Gemma Hanekom here as she is definately like minded and I really wish she was closer. I also really appreciated how much Mark and Karen are making such close relationships not just personally with us, as we have always got on well, but also with our club as they really knew many of the individuals that were with us today.

On another note Gemma picked up Hoax, it has been really interesting to have this little Merlie girlie to stay. Last night we had a FULL house - Mark, Karen, Mel, Val and obviously all of our family and LOADS of dogs. One thing is for sure there is never a dull moment at Bowerlands :)

Below is puppy Rhyme leaving with the Lakers - he is destined for greatness I am sure :)

Today I am grateful for great friends, colleagues and family. I really enjoy life right now xxxx

Below Reef and the puppy development book - he is a very dedicated father ha :) xx

A fantastic week.....

2010-11-26T15:31:00.000-08:00

Busy bee, yes thats me but this week has been so productive. I really have a few things I am grateful for this week, Fern, Val and Sian - you guys make everything so much easier. Matt you are fantastic at coping with the madness! My mum and dad for tolerating everything. The dogs for always offering more. See the puppies :)

I absolutely love training my dogs and I do have to say a big thankyou this week to all of those people that help me to enjoy it even more. Stretcholt - I just love being able to train with like minded people and enjoy the company of so many great people. Thursday evenings are also just THE BEST I really love teaching every single partnership, the club just seems to go from strength to strength and there are some amazing partnerships developing. I also have to thank the last group - I ADORE working in this group, particularly with the banter and of course the dog that looks like Dobby and Salexis (you have to be there) and some talented partnerships - I really had been missing this in my own training and over the past few months I really fill this group has taken my own individual training to the next level. And finally a thankyou to Gary - your texts re Tiki made me smile and I really cant wait to do more with her :) She is such a fab girly and the squealing and growling into her weaves makes me chuckle!

2010-11-24T23:28:00.000-08:00

The most surreal day...

2010-11-22T15:23:00.000-08:00

Oh the fun..............

As you can see, our day has been action packed, fun filled and really different. Filming last time was absolutely exhilarating as we were staying in a hotel, eating out for every meal and looking at new homes. Life is so different now and I cant believe this is the end of the story as the 'relocation relocation,' team would say and here we are. I am at home, life is good and I love our new home.

Bowerlands has so many opportunities and the future seems too good to be true, I wake up most mornings and can't believe how lucky we are. This place is inspiring. I feel really content - for once :)

The team were wow, Kirsty is just fabulous and so interesting and yet very down to earth with it. We had lunch at a lovely local pub and then trained the dogs for the camera, Reef fell in love with everyone and everyone loved Reef and the puppies. Some days are just destined to be good and today was one of them....

The programme is aiming to go out in January and will be the first of the new series - watch this space.

If you havent seen the puppies check out my Devongem puppy blog

http://devondogs.blogspot.com/

Lauren xx

Course Analysis

2010-11-21T16:27:00.000-08:00

Course analysis is certainly a weak area in many peoples agility ability. Today certainly pulled up some areas of weakness for lots of our guests at Bowerlands to work on but also interestingly showed some of the strengths of certain dog and handler partnerships and built the confidence of some individuals. I am going to name them as I am sure most of the people that follow this blog have a real interest in DD and what we do here.

Jon and Elsa and Karen and Shadow both really showed that their agility ability is 'On Track!' They were certainly really outstanding in not only their knowledge but also their execution. Well done guys you are both doing a FANTASTIC job. Also a massive well done to Helene and Archie, boy this dog is looking fast and you two are really going to get it together this year. Well done :)

Above is Bowerlands - I hope you all had as good a day as Matt and I did - thankyou for your texts, out of the 10 customers who came today 7 text us to say how much they enjoyed it. Thankyou for your comments guys - always appreciated.

Lauren Langman
http://www.devondogs.co.uk/

More vision, more hope and a touch of reality....

2010-11-20T16:14:00.000-08:00

Am so excited - Matt and his cool company tug-e-nuff have recently produced a DVD. We are in exciting times - I am so proud of him. Dave M is one of my best friends and has a Devongem pup from us who features in the DVD and Matt, my partner and best friend has done all of the design, editing and promotions and produced the DVD. 1000 dvds will be sold at the pre order reduced price - do not miss out :)

Lauren Langman http://www.devondogs.co.uk/

A head full of visions and a heart full of hopes....

2010-11-19T13:16:00.000-08:00

So I read my stars and they say, "Here's a car. Here's the key. Here's a wide, empty road, anything missing from the list? Er...How about fuel to power the engine."

Sometimes I think that Bengally the cat has the right idea.....

I really feel that my feet just have not hit the floor, I am relying on so many fantastic peoples help. I don't know how I would have coped lately without quite a few FAB friends and boyfriend, employees, family, supportive colleagues and wonderful dogs :) Even my customers are outstanding and keep me fantastically grounded, Alexis, Vivienne and Jan Windsor - you are all rocks. Like I said above my head is full of visions and my heart is full of hopes and I am really looking forward to my break over Christmas to start an action plan - off for a family meal now - Bonus - Lloyd and Maria, Myself and Matt and Mum and Dad - and Relocation Relocation are here Monday - whirlwind days.

Lauren xxxx

Popi's Birthday....

2010-11-17T14:55:00.000-08:00

Popi and I had a fab day, alog with Tiki, Reef, Coast and the pups. We went for a whole days 121 and really got to grips with a few of the things I am working on.

Coast was impressive, I really am enjoying this dog. He is patient yet responsive, very focused and mature and loves food and toys and yet can settle when you ask him. He is certainly on track for a dog of his age and I can't wait to develop him. Reef and I practiced a few well needed behaviours for the next few months - I am so proud of him as a dog - he is just so good now and feels very comfortable with a great understanding of so many behaviours, and Tiki is coming on really quickly - now I have invested more time in her she is really looking very Popi and gives me all of her attitudae! LITERALLY! :) Freebie couldnt come which was a shame as she was keeping Helene and Archie company - she really is the most lovely little BC, absolutely perfect for breed as she is just so well adjusted and even yet VERY willing to roll up her sleeves and get to work. Today I feel lucky to have such a great team of dogs and enjoy investing time in our relationships!

Below is Popi - I can't believe she is 8 today - this dog has given me so much, my first BC and she was the best move I ever made, she took me to G7 status at just 23months, qualified for Olympia and then the World Championships TWICE and has had 3 gorgeous litters. I feel very lucky to have her in my life and can't wait to get her working again next year - she has NOTHING to proove, she owes me nothing, I owe her everything - thankyou Mrs POPs xx

Bowerlands Visitors....

2010-11-15T15:42:00.000-08:00

Sue and Nigel left last week and after asking their permission I have printed their card - here goes -

"Dear Lauren and co..

Just want to say a really big thankyou for letting mum and dad bring us on holiday and for giving them some lessons. We had a really great time and agility really has been fun. I am sure mum has already told you but I had a great time at the show and only clipped a pole (mum's fault) otherwise our time would have been third! Mum was delighted and don't you worry I got paid well :) Rigsby and dad went faster than normal and brought home another 2 rosettes!

Mum chose flowers for you but I thought you might like something nice to eat. Looking forward to our next holiday already. Just keep reminding mum and dad about lots of lovely food and dont forget the ball. Woof, woof

Molly and Rigsby xx'

What a pleasure to have these visitors on site and to train :) I feel very lucky - above are the puppies - cant believe they are only 4weeks - they act sooooo mature play bowing and staring right into your eyes - gorgeous :)

Lauren xx

And the weekend just got better :) :)

2010-11-14T13:01:00.000-08:00

Fabulous Training Day - EXCELLENT PEOPLE, fantastic young dogs and lots of food for thought at Bowerlands. As usual lovely food although my naughty father forgot the cheese board, tut tut! The pups have just had so much socialisation! Virginia has now left but we are full again next week and then Dave Munnings is back and Karen Laker and Mel Doyle too - lucky Jonathon Woodger is able to visit as often as he likes and the puppies will all be gone by mid December - they really have had a FAB start even if I do say so myself :) Happy days :) xxxx

Dartmoor show

2010-11-13T09:47:00.000-08:00

We decided to go to Dartmoor despite the mud mainly because it is 6, yes 6 minutes away from Bowerlands. We had a FAB show with some great results.......and cloudy lemonade to top it off....It left me with a real buzz :) We also took the new van - mistake - MUD CENTRAL!

Sian and Ash had a 3rd in G1&2 Agility - well done you!
Lauren and Reef 3rd in G5-7 Agility with a very held seesaw :) bonus as thought I had 5r :)
Linda and Gyp - 3rd in ABC
Alexis and Ruby clear in agility but we had to leave - we had a long way home - hehehehe
Nigel and Rigsby 9th in 1 agility
Sue and Molly some really really motivated runs - well done you :)
Also lovely to watch some great progress from lots of different partnerships.

A lovely show and some very appropriate courses I thought - and lovely Chris Huckle judging - we always enjoy his courses! Thankyou Chris!

Then back to Bowerlands for some cuddles and coffee and had to say no to others as house was full! Great for puppies and lovely reward for us :)

Lauren

Virginia Harry from the Voice, Karen Laker and David Munnings....

2010-11-11T03:35:00.000-08:00

Well we have been busy this week, camera people, photographers, Virginia Harry and a lesson a day, Dave Munnings and Karen Laker and I just feel like my feet havent touched the ground.....

Karen has picked her puppy, Dave Munnings wants a puppy and Virginia Harry is after a puppy hehe, there just arent enough to go around. Lessons have been fantastic - everyone is keen and love teaching people with such a passion for what they do. I just feel very lucky to be in such a privileged position.

Today I worked in the barn - this weather is just unpleasant but am lucky to have a lit space to go into. Off to Newhall to teach now - please let the weather be kind :) Above is Reef - he is just a pleasure :)

Lauren

How many lovely people are there out there?

2010-11-09T14:41:00.000-08:00

So pleased with the weekend. Trained some fantastic new customers who were so open to new learning and also some amazing existing customers. It is always fun to have new blood but also love that we have some great people who come again and again! However today was just inspiring, I had the most amazingly positive group - just great. I had two messages from them on my way home and an email. I also had some lovely feedback from a new customer - always good to hear :)

Hi Carole and crew..

Firstly - thank you for making me so welcome even when I turned up far too early.

Thank you for the lovely food - it was very well received.

Lastly can you let Lauren and Mat know how impressed I was with the day and wish we lived alot closer, they never once did anything to destroy anyones confidence and only ever built people up, that in itself is something I as a relative newbie to the sport will take away with me (even though I have a g6 dog) I have already made a list on paper of what I feel we need to concentrate on - in both the short term and long term. I also wanted you to know when reading the Agility Voice yesterday I looked at every decision making jump to try and work out the best way to do it, not just the way I would of done it in the past! So if I get a nervous breakdown I blame you two.

Lauren and Mat and Carole - thank you all again for letting us invade your home and giving us a very enjoyable learning experience.

PS
Trying to rearrange about 4 things so I can definetly come on February date to follow up this session.

Below is our stable block and tack room - the dogs think there new play den is FAB - loads of work to do but sooooooo much fun :) This place is INSPIRING :) Feel lucky to be here xx

I couldn't help but post it :)

2010-11-03T15:40:00.000-07:00

I have been looking at blogs today and checking emails and FB and ahhhhhh I have spare time on my hands. My fabulous helpers agreed to work without me as I just felt too ILL :( so whilst searching and blogging I found a lovely informative blog and reading this really cheered me up along with Tiki and Reef who helped me work! (well sort of - their whole face just says MISCHIEF!)

The blog talks about, "Games and early training, and everything we've picked up from the wonderful Lauren Langman of Devon Dogs. Hopefully this should give us the best possible start! And if we put in the effort to building a solid foundation, then introducing the pieces of equipment at 12 months is so very, very easy that they'll be out there competing successfully in no time! You only have to look at the results of those coming through Lauren's training system to know that it works - all those coming through Devon Dogs go to their first few shows and seem to start winning classes straight away, and move up through the levels so fast, achieving such consistently good results. And I know she's one of the biggest proponents of Foundation training in this country. If we only lived closer we'd be down there training with her every week! (and we have more-than-jokingly looked at the possibility of moving in her direction so we could!!)"

Thankyou guys - you really boosted my day along with Vivienne who is an inspiring person to teach, work with and know! And to the lovely Tiki and Reef too :) Even though you are wild :)

Winning - not a must but still feels good :)

2010-11-02T01:46:00.000-07:00

http://www.agilitynet.com/

If you scroll to the Split Pairs final 2010 there is a link to the report! Matt and I won this final for the second year running and really enjoyed ourselves - great feeling being such a competitive partnership - especially as Bailey is Reefs biggest fan :)

Sian and pup - these are some of the fattest pups I have had, Pops is certainly enjoying having this litter :)

Hoping to train all of the youngsters later today such fun and some lovely 121s lined up too, great day ahead now I just need to shift this cold :) PMA I have been told!

Lauren

Why do we need to develop ourselves for agility?

2010-10-31T14:20:00.000-07:00

November 28th Mark Laker sports psychology
January 9th - Sprint Training
January 15th - Trevor Wiggins Performance Nerves
February 20th - Performance Nerves follow up
February 27th - Mark Laker Sports psychology

Well here at DD HQ we have been concentrating hard on ourselves - sometimes you need to sit back and take a long look at yourself and your life and decide is it all as you want it to be? I have to say that on the whole I am happy with myself and my business, customers and certainly my home and my friends, family and boyfriend however there is always room for improvement. So here is my Winter improvement programme, this is for me, my customers and others who join us and I am pleased to say is has started off well. Thankyou to all who made today enjoyable :) xx

(If you havent already booked these some are full but we are operating a waiting list and some still have limited space-do join us :))

Bengally Cat

2010-10-29T13:06:00.000-07:00

Well Devon Dogs HQ has its very own Bengal cat, I have always loved breedy type cats as they just seem to be really full of personality, just wild in lots of ways! Anyway here he is, our new Bengal cat, given to us as he was a bit of a monkey, he seems to be fitting in here just fine. Other pics are of the house - it is just a gorgeous place to live and I am so proud of it :)

Today has been a lovely day, productive, thoughtful and all in all enjoyable, life is for living, thankyou to those who made today enjoyable!

What makes you a good student?

2010-10-28T14:59:00.000-07:00

Popi is just fabulous - for a nearly 8 year old bitch I think she looks like a very 'yummy mummy' :) On a different note see below :)

Today I read something really interesting by Susan Garrett, she wrote:

"Many years ago I wrote an article for a very popular Dog Agility Magazine. The article entitled "On Being A Good Student" was a popular one, I received many emails and positive comments about it.

Today I decided it would be worthwhile to share the concepts of how to be a good student once again. So I sat down in a quiet room and thought about all of the students I have had over the years. Certainly there are those that have stood out for one reason or another.

First there are the great students. The sponges, the ones that can't get enough information. The ones that seem to improve right before my eyes and in no time at all, are amazing dog trainers in their own right.

On the other end of the spectrum are those students that stand out because they were a pain in my a**. The ones that I may have only taught for one day but they left an impression on me many years later. I recognize as an educator we can learn from everyone. Those that are a challenge give me insight into what holds people back from learning and what holds me back from reaching people with my message.

And there are the students that I really thought would be brilliant but ended up falling short. What held them back?"

Well it really made me think that on the whole I am so grateful for all of the amazing people I teach, I feel honoured and privileged most of the time to be working with many 'great,' students, thankyou all, you know who you are xxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxx

You know you love training when...

2010-10-26T03:50:00.000-07:00

This morning I have had torrential rain and yet still feel that the training I have done was not only worthwhile but really enjoyable. Played some great games with a new BC that is staying with us and really enjoyed watching the learning process. WOW! I love to see creative thinkers and dogs that can problem solve and yet practice their instinctive behaviours. I then trained a gorgeous young Gunran pup and it really inspires me when I work with people that just so want to learn - fabulous morning - then trained my guys - JOB DONE! Even in the rain life is good especially here at Bowerlands - it is really special here.

Above are a couple of puppy pics - growing by the minute! We are looking for Devongem D names - so far we have Devongem Dante as a definate and Devongem did it again :)

Lauren

How time flies

2010-10-23T14:42:00.000-07:00

Its so funny, I have been sat here all evening with Dave Munnings and Dan Shaw and the lovely Mathew Rouse,eating a very naughty take out and watching the puppies grow by the second. I watch in amazement at how they grow - they are just awesome.

However it reminded me of Reef, I picked him from Sandra Adams first named DARLEYFALLS litter and he has had a massive impact on me as an owner, dog lover and trainer. I just adore this dog - so here is to REEF, this is before I knew what he would be, I adored him for being just Reef, even if the noisiest pup I have ever had. Thankyou to Sandra for letting me have him and thankyou to Reef for being such a gorgeous dog to work with! Here is baby Reef - at this age it was all hopes and dreams - its now reality :) :) Thankyou Reef x

Learning and developing as a trainer and handler

2010-10-18T04:37:00.000-07:00

As a trainer and a dog handler and fanatic I do love to see clever dog training! People do not give dogs choices, allow dogs to think and choose for themselves and make correct and appropriate learning decisions and actually learning time! For me dog training is not just an art but a science - there is huge amounts of clever reading and learning that can be done about how dogs learn! Contact training for me is well thought out, independently executed and an enjoyable experience from the first moment the dog performs and attempts the behaviour! I am really proud of lil Tiki - this is her first DW at Newhall in the outdoor school - thanx to Gary for filming and am so pleased with how she looks particularly with a group environment and distractions as well the fact it is a send ahead dog walk and she is a dog that naturally works well on recall as she has vey little eye stalk behaviours - no luring and no baiting just clever choices :)

Puppies at Devongem :)

2010-10-17T11:17:00.000-07:00

There are puppies at our Devongem home Bowerlands - Popi x Reef both fab dogs and really hope the pups will be great too! Popi has the most loving nature with them and tends to every squeak and Reef is a typical man! (Actually he loves the puppies but is not in with them as gets just slightly obsessed:) We are more than happy after two weeks to have all of our lovely customers in to see them for a cuddle and socialisation session, so do come for a visit to Bowerlands.

On another note had a FAB training session yesterday with a great local club - really enjoy working with this club, they are just ACE! And today I have run a course at home with some excellent people and their 'Youngsters for Sport.' An inspirational day and feels very much time well spent :) XX

Thankyou to everyone for making this all soooo positive - your attitudes are amazing and with so many new ideas to work with I can barely contain myself :)

Lauren xx

Winter Training Plans

2010-10-12T07:28:00.000-07:00

If you haven't already seen on the website we have lots of new days coming up - exciting times! We have some space on the following courses if you have not already booked -

* Skills day 24th October - Jump skills in the am, followed by the EVER popular walk the course, followed by a send ahead and distance workshop!

* Stretcholt - we have new stretcholt dates - please look at these - this is a great habitat to work in and always makes both handler and dog think hard. Course walking, running and analysis for competitive dogs only!

* Awesome Handling - an excellent day of handling and analysis with a farmhouse lunch provided!

* Performance Nerves - a day looking at improving your mental game

* Sprint Training - a day of energy, improving technique and style and generally learning about your sprint style - farmhouse lunch included!

* Tuesday morning course running workshops - These really are such fun, great course running, analysis and looking at handling style and technique.

* February Mark Laker sports psychology and Handling Training

* Karen Laker weave, contact and young dogs sequencing workshops

We also have coming up -

Guest Trainer Days at other clubs so look out for these
Improving relationships with your dogs
Awesome Contacts
K9 Massage workshop

All for the new year so watch this space......

Please email Carole@devondogs.co.uk or text Lauren for more information or see the website!

Hope you have your Winter Training Plan -

Lauren and all at www.devondogs.co.uk
Below is a picture of Clover x Reef pup Five - 16weeks old
Popi x Reef pups are due any day time now - fingers crossed

Mark and Karen Laker Training

2010-10-11T00:26:00.000-07:00

Well the weekend started with a tour around the farm, the Lakers are interested in the farm for lots of reasons - watch this space :) All I heard was "ah," and "lovely" and "a laundry room?" We then had a fab dinner and far too much wine, well they both insisted so who am i to refuse ??;)

The training on the Sunday was great for me and really reaffirmed for me that DD is on the right track and are getting a lot of things right. Mark posted on his blog too, he said,

"It was good to see everyone again and note the progress made since last time. I must say Devon Dogs have had a good season."

I really like the fact that they are successful with the same handling system and yet human nature will always dictate that we sometimes have a different take on things.

Below is Shadow aka Shadow Man. He has had a very good G1 season - he has progressed from G1 to G3 and we are really proud of both him and Karen. Karen also has a gorgeous new tri boy pup from the Reef x Clover litter so watch this space :)

Oh how we love foundation....

2010-10-08T05:37:00.000-07:00

So Winter is fast approaching and I love the fact that we have great people coming to train with us every Saturday and Sunday from now until the end of March to try to improve individual skills, develop knowledge and continue to generally improve and get better! I am also continually suprised with the lesson requests we have - Virginia Harry from the AGILITY VOICE is coming to stay with us in a few weeks and is also asking for foundation so I really am pleased that we have such a breadth of knowledge in this area. I also am really pleased with the numbers od new enquiries we are having, only this week I have had three new lesson enquiries for G6 and 7 handlers so am pleased we are helping this niche too :) Happy days.

We are really enjoying the YD sequencing and the new block of foundation is going really well too - some great people and great future pupstars! I think they are all going to be fab - with such dedicated owners how can they not be?

Winter Training plans

2010-10-07T02:44:00.000-07:00

Here is Lyla on the A frame - for me this photo shows a very different dog to the one we started out with almost two years ago re agility. Her photo shows drive, intensity and focus - definately something we want to increase in our agility dogs.

We have some great workshops coming up to increase and boost your winter training plan challenges. Awesome Handling, Course Analysis (all with a farm house kitchen style lunch) Youngsters for Sport, Contact and weave workshops and Skills day with walk the course, sprint training days, Dave M training, Mark Laker and Karen laker various sessions and go the distance send ahead workshops! Some of these are full and operating waiting lists but we can have spectators, others have space so book early to avoid dissapointment.

Hope to see you all soon,

Lauren

Finally....

2010-10-01T12:02:00.000-07:00

Ok so I LOVE this place :)

Today has been a very surreal day - I really cant believe we are finally here! To reassure all of my million customers look above I have a very adequate King sixe bed AND my own en suite in my little studio annexe of the house! Matt and I LOVE it - it is just sooooo us!

The dogs are just loving it here, I walked them at about 6ish and they really couldnt believe that a miracle fairy (more often known as Fern) had deposited agility equipment ready for the course analysis on Sunday in the school - wow - the place is officially too cool!

I am off to have a glass of well deserved red wine and may even open the bubbly that a very kind customer has given me - thankyou all for your lovely cards, chocs and moving in gifts you are all too kind and supportive! You have really been so good to me over the last year - I promise to try my hardest to help you all :)

Lauren and Team DD (Carole is currently making bread with her Kitchen aid whilst drinking a glass of wine and looking at a recipe for a Victoria Sandwich/Carrot Cake for Sundays course - oooh the fun - I really am looking forward to it! Any special requests please put them in now as she is really getting quite good at this domestic goddess thing :))

Introducing Coast and Spice

2010-09-29T08:31:00.000-07:00

So most of you guys probably already know these two however I know that lots of you have been asking me what they are like in training. Well to be honest we don't do a huge amount of agility bar foundation, solid waits, good strong hand targets demonstrated in this video with constant pressure for food, balance, propriaceptive work and focus in groups. There head space is great really strong work ethics and lovely drive for toys - both natural learners in lots of ways and are very rarely worried by anything.

All of the youngsters are coming on really well in groups and I am really looking forward to the upcoming YD sequencing, new foundation block and youngster for sport training. All are full so please don't try to book on now - we will run these courses again soon! I saw Zing, Effi, Wookie, Dusty and Brooke on Monday and Cove and Coast trained on Tuesday and all are looking gorgeous.

What I think the video shows is that both youngsters are willing to work equally for food/toys. Both can maintain focus on the task in hand and both are learning how to use their bodies at different stages of development. I can certainly see a real difference in Coast lately as being male it often takes them that tiny bit longer to learn to co-ordinate and am really pleased with the progress I see from both dogs. They are in most of the same groups as Brooke below and we are really pleased with how they are all coming on. Dont work your pups too hard guys but do the right foundation and it all pays off dividends :)

Lauren

2010-09-29T00:59:00.001-07:00

Winter Training Plans are well and truly kicking off.....

2010-09-22T04:38:00.000-07:00

Have just been writing an article for the voice and it really has got me thinking, you guys are so good at putting your whole hearts, energy and soul into what you do - you really do make me enjoy what we do!

Looking at the next few months we have some really great Winter Training Plan (WTP) sessions coming up - please dont book any before you have checked re availability, quite a few of them are now FULL and operationg waiting lists! I personally am particularly looking forward to our WTP already with skills days, youngsters for sports days, grids and jump skills sessions, SPRINT days (for owners) awesome handling workshops and Performance Nerves days with a very skilled musician with a vast international profile. These are all part of our game plan both personally as a trainer and for you guys! So my task for you all this week is to tell me what you want, to tell me how and when you want it and I will really try my best! Well, within reason of course ;)

I am so proud of so many of your achievements this year as well as our own individual achievements and I really think we are very lucky to have this therefore we must keep developing and learning like this.....GAME ON!

I am leaving you with a video of Jon and Elsa - Jon has had a fab season so far going from G1-3, has he achieved his goals this season? Now that would be telling ;)

Some more fantastic DD and training results

2010-09-19T12:41:00.000-07:00

Okay so this season is nearly ending and it really hasn't stopped amazing me, right from the start really!

We trained up near Shauna Lyons and had a fab day training both Shauna and her friends. I have to say miss Breeze was FANTASTIC. Shauna is working through all of her puppy foundation and doing such a great job - she plays like a demon Shauna :)

We then travelled to Thatcham - absolutely shattered. We bought lovely Waitrose food and satin the caravan for about 18hours before we decided to see the show. The dogs were happy playing and chewing in the garden and we were just so tired we knew we needed to get some proper rest before the final that eve, the reason we were in Thatcham. Reef and Bailey were both stars as usual and it really is becoming a bit of a trend to us to do well! They won the final beating some great dogs. In secon were Tim Marsh and Lesley Olden. We were both ecstatic - our second year in a row!

On Sunday I only did two runs - a power and speed with Reef 1st place in 13seconds winning by nearly 5 seconds! And a training run with Tiki, am so pleased with how she is coming on - I will upload some vid soon.

Lastly I have to try to make a link to Alexis's win last weekend, am so pleased for both her and teresa, they have both worked so hard through foundation and now all that hard work is showing! Both dogs are now grade 5!! I'm sure G6 is just around the corner! Here is the link but I am not sure I have done it correctly - will ask matt!

I asked matt and now you can see it :)

On another note I heard that Kim and Lyla won out of grade 1 today too, faberooni - you guys make me just so proud, your results are outstanding! But my final well done is to V and Kidi - V you have made two dogs grade 7 this year - FANTASTIC! G7 with Kidi is such an achievement - I knew you could do it :)

Well done to you all,
Lauren and team DD xxxxxxxxxxxxx

Success breeds success

2010-09-15T05:27:00.000-07:00

I am just amazed by the recent months success. Success certainly breeds success! I am so impressed that I have to blog about it!

Training is just going from strength to strength. The last group of young dogs are pretty awesome - not all of them are out competing yet but all are awesomely talented! Watching PC and Indi come 1st and 2nd to Mark and Devongem Crystal Method (who is also very talented) was just inspiring - 1st and 2nd against a more experienced handler and trainer is just fab! Mark it must be down to the running ;) You need Tom Rooney I tell you!

It is also inspiring watching some of our complete newbies really pull it all together - they did a 25ft weave send ahead on Monday and I really do think they are inspiring - no luring, no help just beautiful send aheads!In addition to this some of the youngsters are also showing both raw talent and great foundation - this really has to be my favourite area of training - foundation and developing the youngster for sport.

I do hope the agility circuit is being as kind to you - today is one of those days to feel proud about, I love my job, my clients, my family and partner and my dogs!

Lauren
www.devondogs.co.uk

Our New Training Blog :)

2010-09-08T04:35:00.000-07:00

Well this is exciting - a new training blog!

I am going to kick it off with some of our own dogs achievements this year as 2010 has certainly been amazing! We have certainly had one of our most successful yeas with 88 trophies to date, individually -

Reef
Has managed to go from G4-G7 and won out at the biggest show of the year with over 300 in the class at KCI all in 2010.
Has sired some beautiful puppies.
Has qualified for Olympia with a 1st and a 3rd at semis and for the second year running.
Won the Tug-e-nuff final MAXI
Qualified for the UKA Nationals week finals
Qualified for the split pairs final to take place soon.

Tiki and Riot
Both won their heights of the UKA steeplechase final.
Riot has two G3 wins towards grade 4.

Bailey
Has achieved grade 7 status
Won the CSJ Final at his height.
Qualified for the UKA Nationals final.
Qualified for the Masters Final.
Acheieved Masters status at UKA
Qualified for the split pairs final
Reached the champ final at his first ever champ class
Qualified for Olympia

Popi
Come back after a very complicated wrist injury and won 4 Grade 7 classes
Back competing in champ
Now having her final litter
Hope to be back competing in 2011

2010-09-08T04:28:00.000-07:00