A week with dogs

Just returned from a week where we  introduced our new 'rescue' cocker spaniel Pebbles to the joys of North Devon.  As a former breeding bitch everything was new to her including being inside a cottage, let alone running on a  beach. Luckily we also had our daughter's dog Dot with us to show her the ropes.
The weather was not brilliant but every day we managed a walk on the beach in the dry.

Pebbles having a first run on the beach

Looking after a new dog with  the challenges of house training kept us pretty busy in the day and then at night, Pebbles decided to keep us awake with crying, barking, yapping and rattling her cage.  Our initial strategy was to leave her until she settled but this was often over an hour.  On the third night she also started Dot barking so we decided on a different approach and finally succeeded in quietening her with a firm no, followed by gentle praise ( whilst remaining hidden).  It seemed she just needed reassurance that we were still there.

Hil was also kept busy with a request at short notice for her to take and preach at the Remembrance Sunday service at the village church, it was a lovely service and very much appreciated by the congregation.

We took the opportunity to sample Michael's pies on Tuesday Pie Night at The Bell next door.  A great selection including a fantastic vegetarian pie which Hil much enjoyed.

A new railing which we planned to install on the lounge steps was finally delivered on Tuesday having been made in Cradley Heath.  A friend arrived on Wednesday morning to help with the installation, which I thought just involved drilling 7 holes for the pre-purchased bolts.  Sadly, in an old cottage things are never simple and the uneven state of the wall into which we will be drilling means that a few longer screws and some washers are needed, now a job for our next visit.

We returned after a week to be home for the funeral of a dear friend but look forward to our visit in December when we hope Pebbles will be more settled and allow us to sleep through the night!