Top Lodge Dancing Dogs

Kath, Spice, Amber and Denby captured on video by Mars PetCare

2011-12-21T13:01:00.001Z

Thanks to Mars Pet Care for edting this lovely short video of Kath's time with you for Christmas.

Christmas at Mars Pet Care Melton Mowbray

2011-12-19T19:33:00.000Z

Another visit to Mars Pet Care for Kath and her three dogs, Spice, Amber and Denby, but this time to the factory at Melton Mowbray.

Kath showed them some of the basic moves for Freestyle with Spice and explained the sport of HTM to them.

A couple of people had brought their own dogs for today's lesson - and others borrowed Kath's dogs.

Time for everyone to join in with a rendition of The 12 Days of Christmas made especially special for the dogs by Kath.

All had to join in - singing or taking part with the dogs.

Amber thoroughly enjoyed dancing with her new partner!

Captured on film!!!

Nearly at the end of the song - and once again Kath and Spice were the only ones not to miss a beat!!!

Time for a rest - well done Denby, Amber and Spice!

Kath did OK too!!! Thank you to Mars Petcare for inviting Kath and her "pack" to entertain at this special Christmas lunch time break.

Karen & Kath judge the Swedish Championships

2011-12-19T17:29:00.000Z

Shortly before the Open European Championships, Kath and Karen received a wonderful invitation from The Swedish Kennel Club to judge at the Swedish HTM and Freestyle Championships to be held on 10th & 11th December

Arlanda Airport - Stockholm - beautifully decorated for Christmas

The huge venue where the Swedish Championships were held

On arrival at the venue each dog was carefully checked by a veterinarian

The Swedish Kennel Club Stand

Inside the venue with its "living walls" - carefully covered for the weekends visitors!

The Saturday saw the judges working with the Young KC Members. Three levels of competition and some superb routines. Judging took all morning and then within the Dog Show, prizes were presented.

Unfortunately - no photos of the competition as Karen and Kath were busy judging!

Lovely to be able to give a little feedback to the competitors during the presentations

The FCI celebrated its100th Birthday in 2011 and the Freestylers were invited to "dance" out the decades in the afternoon for the Main Arena Entertaiment - they did very well.

Whoops - there is a Chihuahua there somewhere!!!

Manchester Terrier and its handler depict the 1980's

And a fabulous finale for all the handlers and their dogs

These two were kept busy throughout the weekend with each Champions Fanfare

The Young KC - Class 3

The evening Dinner where Karen was joined by Rolf for aperitifes - anyone for a sprout??????

Sunday and the day of the Swedish HTM & Freestyle Championships.
All the competitors were greeted by the audience before the show started

The Prize Presentation - Thank you Yvonne Oster And Photos

View from the hotel - 17th floor! No snow!!

Thanks to the organisers of both competitions, to the Swedish KC and to the wonderful competitors for a great competition

Christmas Lunch Time at Mars Petcare Waltham

2011-12-19T15:56:00.000Z

Kath and her dogs, Spice, Amber and Denby were invited to entertain for the lunch hour at the Mars Petcare in Waltham.

Chairs set out in readiness for approximately 30 staff to be entertained.

And hot mince pies also lined up for a Christmas lunch time treat for those attending.

Kath with Spice and Denby all ready for the action.

Great - a few members of staff had brought along their dogs to learn some of the basic steps required for "Dancing Dogs"

Those without dogs watched intently hoping to take home some good training tips from Kath

Anyone struggling was given One to One help and guidance

Weaving, spinning, creeping and giving a paw - plenty to keep these dogs and handlers training over Christmas

Kath lent both Amber and Denby to people who had no dog with them to get a feel of training some moves

Everyone joined in throughout the hour

And a little hind leg work demonstration

The Finale - The 12 Days of Christmas". Twelve "volunteer" spectators were brought out on to the floor from the audience and each given a card prepared by Kath. Each card had one move for each of the 12 days. Kath with Spice completed the entire song and every move - helped by the singers and other dog handlers!

Each "card holder" had to remember when it was their turn to sing or call out their "move". So simple - well that was the plan!

The "singers" were harder to control than the dogs each having to read or sing out their Day of Christmas at the right time!!!

But it was all worthwhile - all participants - human and dog were given a Christmas Stocking courtesy of Pedigree

Thank you Mars Pet Care for inviting Kath and her dogs to entertain you all and thank you for taking part in the Finale!

Karen Receives the Open European Winner's Jacket

2011-12-03T19:38:00.000Z

Karen and Fly
Winners of the Open European Individual Heelwork To Music Championship

This week, Karen received her fabulous "Three In One" jacket from one of the major sponsors of the OEC held in Denmark on October. For more photos check HERE

The Canine Freestyle GB Committee Meet the Kennel Club

2011-11-25T19:03:00.000Z

The Kennel Club invite Committee Members of KC Registered Clubs to meet the staff that deal with the running of clubs and other administration towards the sport, so Karen, Lesley and Kath travelled to London. It was a very useful and instructive meeting - and they would recommend other clubs to send representatives to meet the staff and find out more!

Joanna Nosalik was a key member of the staff that sent in the HTM Team GB entries for the Open European Championship - so the trio took the opportunity thank Joanna and to show off their rosettes and Karen's huge Individual Winner's Trophy.

A great day out! Thank you to everyone in the Canine Activities Department for all the information and guidance they gave during this visit.

Karen and Fly at Discover Dogs

2011-11-14T21:12:00.000Z

Follow this LINK for more photos and a video link too!!

Success for Angus and Hamish

2011-11-13T19:40:00.000Z

Come on, let's go!

Lesley and Roger, and Angus and Hamish spent the weekend in Aberystwyth at the Show run by Aberystwyth DTC.

On Saturday Hamish enjoyed working his last Novice HTM Class, he has now moved up to Intermediate level, gaining a very respectable 4th place, and Angus and Lesley tried out their new routine in the Advanced Freestyle Class - and gained 1st place!

With the sun shining all weekend Sunday was a day for the beach - and how the boys enjoyed themselves!

This path goes on for miles!

Just like the beach

Miles and miles

Right down to the sea

Find a stick, dad, throw a stick, dad, please, please.....

Camouflaged Beardie!

Karen and Fly at Discover Dogs

2011-11-10T21:05:00.001Z

Karen and Fly have been invited to Discover Dogs to perform their Open European Championship winning routine to Hernando's Hideaway on Saturday 12th November at 16:05.

Good luck to them both and we all hope they enjoy their time in the Main Ring.

The Top Lodge Trio win Double Gold

2011-11-02T20:43:00.000Z

All three members of the Top Lodge Dancing Dog Team were selected by the Kennel Club to represent Great Britain at the Open European Championships held in Denmark on 22nd and 23rd October 2011.

Karen Sykes with Fly won the Individual Heelwork To Music Championship with two fabulous performances to the music "Hernando's Hideaway".

Massive cup, beautiful rosettes, clever Fly and Karen
with the Team's Good Luck messages.
WELL DONE KAREN - Individual Open European Champions!!!!

Furthermore, the Top Lodge Trio - HTM TEAM GB
were placed first in the Team Competition making
Lesley and Angus, Karen and Fly, Kath and Amber
the Open European Team Champions

In the Individual Championship, Karen with Fly placed 1st, Lesley with Angus 5th and Kath with Amber 10th

On the second day, in the Freestyle Competition, Team GB - Lesley with Angus, Kath with Spice and Amber finished in 4th Place!!!! Lesley and Angus individually placed 4th, with Kath and Spice in 7th and Kath with Amber just out the top ten places.

For more information visit the HTM TEAM GB BLOG and the Open European Championship Blog

Well done to Top Lodge Dancing Dogs.

Sad News - Archie

2011-10-31T16:30:00.002Z

Archie, Choxxstart Red Archie24 01 2011 – 22 10 2011

It is with great sadness that we have to report the death of Archie.

Whilst the trio were competing at the Open European Championships in Denmark, Lesley received the tragic news that Archie, her 9 month old pup had died suddenly.

Dance on in the stars with great uncle Robbie, little man.

HAMISH - A WINNER

2011-10-16T17:59:00.000+01:00

Happy Lesley and Hamish - they won Novice Heelwork To Music in Anglesey this weekend!!!!!!!!!!

Judging at the Nordic Championships

2011-10-04T07:45:00.000+01:00

Congratulations to Lesley Neville who has accepted an invitation to Judge at the Nordic Championship Show in Freestyle and Heelwork to Music to be held in Lillestrøm, Norway on the 26th and 27th November 2011.

The Top Lodge Team Members are certainly doing some traveling around the world this year!

Intermediate Erin

2011-09-21T16:02:00.000+01:00

Erin had a good weekend at the Canine Freestyle GB competition held at Tomlinson's Canine Academy and Boarding Kennels on Saturday 10th September 2011.

She was placed 2nd in the Novice Freestyle class which means that she is now qualified to compete in Intermediate Freestyle.

Congratulations to Erin - Intermediate in both Heelwork to Music and Freestyle!

Happy Hamish at Tomlinson's

2011-09-21T15:19:00.000+01:00

Lesley and Hamish were delighted to be placed 2nd in Novice Heelwork To Music Part 1 at Canine Freestyle GB's Show held at Tomlinson's Canine Academy and Boarding Kennels, on Sunday 11th September.

Hamish has had a few set backs in his dancing career, he has a few allergy problems which have knocked his confidence in the past and for the last year or so Lesley has been doing training rounds with him to gradually rebuild his enjoyment of the sport.

These all paid off on Sunday when a happy and confident Hamish strutted his stuff to Caro Emerald's "A Night Like This" and it was a very special moment for Lesley to receive the Blue 2nd place rosette and stand in the line up for the photos.

Well done Hamish!

Top Lodge - a return visit to The Eye Show

2011-08-31T18:11:00.001+01:00

Eye Show - a fabulous event where Top Lodge had entertained a few years ago

Beautiful weather!

Karen and Fly show their skills at Freestyle

Kath with Amber trying to keep precise Heelwork
but in grass long enough for your feet to disappear in!

Lesley and Angus dancing with the wind in his fur to POSH

Kes - the oldest Dog Member of the Team
still giving a good chase sequence whilst dancing to "Me Ol' Bamboo!"

Spice Flying through Kath's arms in "Those Magnificent Men In Their Flying Machines"

Fabulous photo by the Top Lodge Photographer Allan Brown
The Black Rock Llamas

Great fun - racing Llamas!!

The Cheshire Dog Display Team

Helicopter Rides all day long above the showground

Motorstunts International -
another fabulous photo by Top Lodge Photographer Allan Brown

Stuart at the Sheep Show - educational and very funny!

Kath with Amber and Karen with Fly - a pairs routine

Angus flying over Lesley in "Mame"

The Yakovlevs Aerobatic Display

Captured on Photo by Allan Brown (Top Lodge Photographer)

The children were invited into the ring to dance like Karen's dog Fly.

Not quite synchronised - but trying hard

Much better - altogether now!!!

Kath with Spice perform to "If I Only Had A Brain"

Sarah - Top Lodge thank you for the superb commentary you gave!!

Flying the Flag - a great display from the RAF

Lesley with Hamish really striding out

The Top Lodge Pups!!! Archie (7 months) and Denby (almost 6 months)

Thank you to the Organisers of Eye Show for looking after the Top Lodge Trio and their dogs so well. They hope your show was a total success.

Kath at Mars!!

2011-08-31T13:37:00.001+01:00

It was a wet, miserable day on Friday, but Kath and her husband David and three dogs set off for a visit to Pedigree in Leicestershire.

Spice

Amber

Denby

Kath gave a talk to the staff about Heelwork To Music and also included some demonstrations by all her dogs.
Thank you Pedigree for inviting them.

Gower Show 2011

2011-08-09T21:13:00.008+01:00

Sue Thomas, Gower Show Secretary wrote to Top Lodge in November 2010 to see if the group was available for their annual show in August 2011. Yes they were available so a firm booking was made.

Funniest face competition?

The team had never been to the Gower Peninsula but everyone they mentioned the venue to said it was a most beautiful part of Wales. And how true this was!

Steady up there!!! A frisky exhibitor!

Yummy - cakes waiting to be judged

A display of bees

A Garmen

Barn Owl

Hello!!!! A fabulous Alpaca

The weather could have been better - during the first display
it was pretty torrential but Karen and Kes made sure the show went on!!

Kath and Amber explaining the terms of Heelwork To Music
and in a little sunshine too

Karen and Fly performing Heelwork To Music to Hernando's Hideaway

And the sun kept shining -
Karen and Erin explaining some of the Freestyle moves

Yes - even when its been raining - the routine stays the same!!
Very soggy grass!

One of Spice's favourite jumps - "body popping"

Erin is finding that Denby just keeps growing!!!

The heavy horses were well turned out and looked great in the glorious sunshine

The show is set in the grounds of Penrice Castle Park,
Reynoldston, Gower.

The Members and Officials Car Park - the event was huge

The visitors gather at the Main Ring whilst the approaching clouds get darker!!

Spotted the large Blonde lady centre?

Here she is again!

Ah!!! She was part of the Police Dog Display!!!

The police handlers had sunny weather for their display of man work

A bit more "Man Work" as David holds Denby to greet the young ladies!

The top three Shire Horses - all these photos taken by Allan Brown - thanks Allan

Karen with Fly and Kath with Amber performing a pairs HTM Routine

Amber taking off!

Karen and Fly giving a lesson on Freestyle with the children

A very well behaved group all trying very hard to beat Fly into position

And Kath with Spice close the Top Lodge performances
with If I Only Had a Brain

Denby's first visit to the seaside!! 5 months old

Time to visit the seaside - what a glorious beach and totally dog friendly!!

A solitary house at the beach - as seen on "Torchwood"!

Karen gathering the pack in the sea

Fly and Erin chasing the waves

The pack of six dogs!

Amber chasing the photographer :-)

Karen's not one to miss a training opportunity!

Denby full of sea water!

Karen gathers most of the pack together

Lesley had been unable to travel on this trip due to a back injury.

Kes - always the last dog to leave the sea - she loves the beach and the waves

A bedraggled Spice

Thanks to Gower Show for inviting us to the show and thanks to our sponsors at the event - The Kings Head and THD (Gower) Limited. We loved the show and the surrounding scenery was amazing.

A Weekend In Sweden

2011-07-21T14:01:00.003+01:00

An invitation to teach in Sweden was received by Kath and Karen shortly after the World Show held in June 2010, but as their schedules were so busy, it had taken time to find a weekend when they would be available.

Leaving home at 7:30am on the Friday the duo travelled to Birmingham Airport for the 50 minute KLM flight to Amsterdam where a connexion would be made to fly the 1 hour 50 min KLM flight to Linköping in Sweden. It was all going so well until there was a delay on the first flight due to storms in Holland the previous night. Kath and Karen arrived in Schiphol airport to be told they would make the connexion - however, after running what seemed like 2 miles and passing through security where they were once again held up - the pair arrived just as the gate had closed.

Happily the next flight to Linköping would have room for them both but sadly it wasn't due to leave until 20:30 giving them over 6 hours waiting in the Airport. Texts were sent to Yvonne in Sweden apologising as they should have been attending the largest HTM Competition in Sweden that afternoon.

Thankfully, the flight left Holland and arrived in Sweden on time, however, no luggage arrived with them. After registering a complaint and giving details of the lost luggage, the pair were taken to the beautiful Scandic Hotel with an Emergency Pack given to them by the airport Customer Services. Arriving at the hotel at 23:30 and then having to wash their travel cloths in readiness for Saturday's Training Session! Not easy but .................................................

They found a "Sock Dryer" and iron to help persuade the clothes to dry!! The cases were eventually delivered at 18:15 on the Saturday!

The hotel was perfect - very quiet and with beautiful views from the bedroom window.

This was an area for early morning dog walkers and many "power walkers" in the dull but dry weather.

The training venue was a good sized Youth Club with some nice training areas outside.

This is where the competition had been held the previous day.

The 44 delegates on the seminar were split into group in the latter part of the afternoon as there was so much useable space.

Lots of breeds attended - Dachshund, Boston Terrier, Pug, Hungarian Pumi etc etc.........

Team and Group Work is always good to set.

And everyone found some special move for the dogs involved.

However - one group concentrated so much on the handlers - it seems they forgot to include their dogs!!!

Precision timing and good patterns on the floor for audience appeal.

On the Sunday afternoon, the group gathered for a photo -

- it had started to rain heavily outside so picture quality wasn't good but still a nice memento of the weekend.

The next day was set aside for sightseeing - Yvonne took the duo to Old Linköping - a small "village" of original very old buildings and shops which was preserved to show some of Sweden's history.

Some buildings are the originals whereas others had been brought in from surrounding areas.

Everything was well maintained and all the shops were open for trade!

Yvonne explained how the Freestylers use this "arena" for their under cover winter practice!! Kath and Karen suggested it was a stage fit for a competition!!

Can you spot the "OMO", "4711" and LUX soap?

Monica and Torbjörn joined Karen and Kath on their visit to the Old Linköping.

One of the shops had some really unique carvings on display and for sale.

The pictures on the wall were of a dark wood background - the lighter coloured wood was then placed on top, about an centimetre apart after it had been etched and carved out to reveal very famous faces.

The two trainers were then taken to the "new" Linköping - this is the magnificent cathedral.

The beautiful "Tree Of Life" made of silver, gold and glass, "planted" in the cathedral. At the top of this tree is a dove symbolising peace. There are also nine different kinds of fruit on the tree representing different virtues (such as patience, love, humility and kindness).

Photo call outside the cathedral - the red shoes are a must have for HTM!!!

A strange sculpture in the Main Square. Folke Filbyter is the horseman. The statue is from 1927 depicting him searching for his (allegedly, Verner von Heidenstam wrote about this in 1903) kidnapped grandson. Folke Filbyter is thought to be the first in line the Folkunga family, central in the history of this region and also with royal lines.

Our guides seemed to believe "Dancing Dogs" started in Linköping many years ago!! They seem to have proof too!

Time to leave Sweden. This was the duo's return transport to Holland at Linköping Airport - not the busiest airport they have ever travelled to but thank goodness sufficient flights from Amsterdam to re unite Kath and Karen with their luggage before they departed.
Many thanks to Yvonne for organising the visit, to Rolf for ensuring the equipment was working for the presentations and to everyone who attended the Seminars.

Lesley Takes A Break In Spain

2011-07-18T11:44:00.001+01:00

As Kath and Karen had been invited to Sweden to present a seminar, Lesley took the opportunity to visit family in Spain for the weekend.

Lesley and her sister arrived on the Thursday evening to beautiful blue skies and wispy clouds, but very hot! At least it seemed very hot to them but they were soon assured that they had arrived on one of the coolest days for a few weeks as the temperature was only in the low 30 degrees!

So it was lovely to sit outside and cook the evening meal on the Barbecue whilst discussing the plans for the weekend.

The next day Lesley had an opportunity to fulfill one of her ambitions. Having ridden horses in her teens, and taken up the sport again for a while in her early 30's (where she was often accompanied by her then teenage niece Georgina) she had been pleased to find that Georgina had started horse riding again in Spain and was now keen to meet her new acquisition - Kiwi - a gray horse that she had started riding at the local stables and had now bought.

Lesley tries the Western Saddle

Plans were made for Lesley to ride another friends horse, a skewbald called Percy. The ambition? Percy was ridden with a Western saddle and Lesley had always wanted to try riding with a Western saddle! Real cowboy style - well they did make the Spaghetti Westerns out in Spain so why not?
(It was very comfortable once she remembered not to lean forward when going up some steep parts of the path through the woods as the high pommel does tend to catch you in the ribcage if you do so.)

The View From The Town Walls

Saturday brought another new experience as the family visited the beautiful town of Guadalest way up into the mountains. With temperatures by the coast reading at 41degrees it was lovely to be so high up where there was a breeze, plus the views were stunning!

The Old Jail

A tour around part of the old castle, built by the Moors to defend the region, and the local shops and then it was home again.

Sunday was a family day around the pool followed by another barbie in the evening - much cooler outside than inside!

Back home in England on the Monday was a bit of a shock to the system to arrive to an unseasonable coolness and jumpers were soon found and worn, but Lesley was very warmly greeted by Angus, Hamish and Archie on her return!

Ynys Mon HTM Competition Anglesey

2011-07-11T11:42:00.001+01:00

The Top Lodge Trio had a good competition in Anglesey

Full results for Anglesey

Amber won the dfs Crufts Qualifier Advanced HTM Class and the following day was the winner of the Advanced HTM Class.

Spice was 2nd in the dfs Crufts Qualifier Advanced Freestyle Class on Saturday - but won the Advanced Freesstyle Class on Sunday.

Angus won the dfs Crufts Qualifier Advanced Freestyle Class on Saturday.

And Erin competed in her first Novice Freestyle Classes performing at her very best on Saturday gaining 3rd place - just 0.3 behind the winner.

Celebrating a friend's birthday

Archie met up with his brother Frankie who now lives on Anglesey

Kath was given the task of cutting the cake.

Lovely weather for the competition

Top Lodge at Alfreton Vets

2011-06-19T17:00:00.001+01:00

It was the tenth Anniversary of the opening of the Alfreton Verterinary Hospital and as both Karen and Lesley were their clients, they asked if they would entertain the visitors.

Happy to support their vets, arrangements were made for the trio to entertain for two short performances. A Bouncy Castle and Ice Cream Van were ordered to keep the vets' customers happy.

Inside the Reception Area, the staff were kept busy all day.

Day to day business had been suspended (Emergency cover was still available)

A raffle to raise money with an array of prizes.

First to entertain were Karen and Kes - the audience was packed into the area.

And they were very appreciative of the routines

Great applause for the final pose.

Most onlookers had never seen this sport before so they were in for a real treat.

Lesley and Angus performing to The Beautiful Briney

Kath and Spice attempting "Those Magnificent Men in Their Flying Machines" - all levels of jump were lowered in consideration of the dogs on the asphalt.

And then it was time for the pack to meet the public.

The Top Lodge Dogs are very experienced in letting other people and children pet them.

Everyone was talking about the "Dancing Dogs" and their display.

Here we met Robert, happy to take the lead!

or take two leads!!!! No problem.

The audience gathered again for the second instalment of Top Lodge's display.

Kath with Amber performing Heelwork To Music

Lesley and Angus performing Freestyle to Mame

Showing great speed and style

Karen with Fly closed the show with Heelwork To Music, to Hernando's Hideaway

The audience loved watching how well the dogs are trained.

Reward time for Fly whilst Karen says thank you to the crowd

More socialisation for the dogs and for Karen meeting a friend from the past!

Balloons too - scared?? Not Fly!

Thank you to Alfreton Veterinary Hospital for inviting Top Lodge to be at your special day.

Derbyshire County Cricket Club

2011-06-19T15:46:00.004+01:00

Lesley and Kath were entertaining at the cricket club in Derby during the interval in the T20 game between the Derbyshire Falcons and the Leicestershire Foxes.

Other entertainment was taking place around the pitch - including these three gents on stilts!

Denby taking it all in - another socialising occasion for him (15 weeks old) and............

his playmate Archie (20 weeks old)

And of course they watched the cricket too!

But the men on stilts were more interesting to the pups! Especially with the one with those fluffy legs!!!

The crowd were happy to come along and meet all the dogs

Amber looking keen to join in.

And at half time - Lesley and Angus danced to "Mame" and Kath with Spice danced to "If I Only Had A brain" - well halfway through - then Spice and Kath were halted as the cricketers were ready to play :-( Disappointing as they had almost finished and the audience were enjoying watching them.

The team watched a little more cricket and then the heavens opened!!!

Thanks to DCCC for the invitation.

Scotland ................ again!

2011-06-16T12:02:00.005+01:00

Upon their arrival at the cottage in Scotland - two members of the Top Lodge Team have fun in the garden!

Oh dear! Is it the fresh Scottish air or water that affected them?

A morning walk to the nearest village 3.5 miles away!

The dogs enjoyed the walk

Denby's first long walk - he did very well with a rest half way!

Still had energy to play with his pal Erin!

Kes looking on - just arrived back home and still playing!
Karen and Kath had travelled to Scotland to compete - sadly the venue wasn't bright enough for photos - but great news as Kes Qualified in Freestyle for the Crufts 2012 Semi Final and Kath had two 3rd places with Spice.

A trip to visit the Royal Yacht Britannia on one day after the competition. This is the Captain's Cabin.

And where he "entertained" his staff

The Greyhound Racing Yacht

The Queen's Bedroom

The Duke's Bedroom

Time to enjoy tea in the beautiful tea rooms.

Oh yummy!!!! A "telephone" is given to each visitor - as you progress around the ship, it gives a running commentary! Very useful.

The Dining Room - the commentary gave the names of all the dignitaries who had eaten here!

Even room for a Baby Grand Piano.

The beautiful Sitting Room

The Staff Quarters!

No one serving at this bar any more.

The Medical Area - with operating table

And a visit round the Laundry. This was fascinating!

The Royal Barge used to take the Queen and her family on to land.

Britannia's pristine Engine Room. So clean and this is how it was always kept!

And the staff washroom - 19 basins, 10 showers for 150 sailors!

Better weather and another good walk.

The final walk after a relaxing stay in Scotland

Top Lodge at The Hop Farm Kent

2011-06-13T15:45:00.001+01:00

The Top Lodge Trio received an invitation to attend "Only Paws and Horses" - a massive show held at The Hop Farm, Kent. Kath with Amber explained the sport of Heelwork to Music .....................

........... assisted by Lesley and Hamish

Followed by Karen with Fly showing a perfectly choreographed performance of Heelwork To Music to the music "Hernando's Hideaway"

Spice helped Kath explain the Freestyle division, showing many different moves .........................

And Karen with Kes then showed the audience a Freestyle routine to the music "Me Ol' Bamboo" from Chitty Chitty Bang Bang.

Angus sped his way with Lesley through their 2011 Crufts routine to the music from "Mame"

And Spice happily showed more freestyle with Kath in their routine to "Those Magnificent Men In Their Flying Machines"

The Trio had been asked to add something extra to their entertainment - the organisers wanted public involvement - so with Karen and Fly, Kath and Amber demonstrating a pairs routine first, the audience was then invited into the arena to dance with their dogs under instruction from Lesley.

Quite a few people showed a willingness to get involved .................

others had to be persuaded that any dog could try this sport ........

some brought in extra family for courage!

Kath and Karen were always there to show them what to to if in doubt

and for some, the challenge of dancing with two dogs was taken

Of course there were horse demonstrations too

wonderful high stepping

and then to make it interesting - the two ladies pictured above, swapped disciplines and horses!

Not looking so confident but they put on a great show!

Jason Webb, from "Australian Horse Training" carried out a demonstration of understanding and building confidence with your horse in unfamiliar surroundings.

It was late in the day when the Top Lodge Trio managed to catch one of these performances - in the gusty wind and drizzle.

Back to the Dog Display Arena and Top Lodge closed the weekend with another selection of routines plus Karen and Fly giving the children from the audience a chance to "Beat The Dog".

Thank you to the organisers of the Only Paws and Horses Show at the Hop Farm Kent.
Top Lodge enjoyed their time with you all.

Derbyshire County Cricket Club

2011-06-02T11:51:00.000+01:00

Derbyshire County Cricket Club asked the Top Lodge Team to entertain between innings at a fast a furious T20 game on 2nd June.

Kath and Karen were available so they went to the well attended the match.

Karen and Kes performed to Me Ol' Bamboo much to the delight of the on lookers.

This was possible the largest ground they had performed on - but luckily they only had to cover up to the boundary rope!

Kath chose to perform with Spice to "If I Only Had A Brain"

They only just managed to keep to the right side of the boundary rope as Spice loves running in the big circles around and over Kath.

At the end of their short performances, Phil Trow from BBC Radio Derby caught up with Karen and Kath to say how much he had enjoyed the routines. Early the next morning he interviewed Kath live on his radio programme asking about Canine Freestyle.

They have been invited back for Saturday 28th June and will be performing around 6:45 pm.

Lesley in Scotland

2011-05-29T12:01:00.000+01:00

The weekend following Kath and Karen’s return from France saw the trio involved in different activities. Roger and Lesley were at Fylde K9 Dancers Show held at Barnard Castle

where Lesley and Angus won the DFS Crufts Advanced Freestyle Qualifying class.

They then moved further north to have a few days holiday with friends Jackie and Chris de Jong and their dogs.

Holiday over it was back to Lanarkshire for the Bearded Collie (Scottish Branch) HTM Show.

Angus again won the DFS Crufts Advanced Freestyle Qualifying class. Wow he was on good form!

The beautiful sunset.

A celebration meal was called for as friends Jackie and Chris had also done well at the show.

However on the Sunday a problem with one of Lesley and Angus’ props put them into second place in the Advanced Class, but they celebrated again that evening as second place is still good, and also friend Jackie had two first places in Intermediate HTM and Freestyle, so a jolly good time was had by all!

Back home now and the trio are reunited for their next demo.

Watch this space!

Top Lodge at Abergavenny

2011-05-29T11:33:00.000+01:00

Abergavenny Steam Fair - 29th and 30th May 2011

This was a massive event in a local park in Abergavenny.

Not only Steam Engines, but a large display of Classic Bikes ...........

Classic Tractors ......................

Classic Cars .............................

Classic Commercial Vehicles .......................

Fun Rides for the kids ..........................

And a lovely Band Stand.

Having arrived the evening before the two day show, there was plenty of time to socialise with Denby (13 weeks old) making friends with the visitors to the show .........

Making friends with the big dogs too!!!

And an introduction to groups in Hi-Viz jackets and uniforms.

And of course Top Lodge provided entertainment. Karen with Fly - Hernando's Hideaway.

The end pose to a great routine and what a great audience - with an arena of 65m x 35m they were gathered all around.

And still more audience gathered as Karen with Erin explained how Top Lodge train their dogs with a high level reward based system

Kath & Spice take to the arena with their ever popular "Magnificent Flying Machine" routine.

And then it was time for the first public performance of a Pairs Heelwork To Music routine to "I Was Born To Love You" - Kath with Amber and Karen with Fly.

Kath with Amber dancing to "Thoroughly Modern Millie"

A huge jump from Amber demonstrating Freestyle moves.

And of course a huge reward!! (As usual - these high quality pictures are taken by Top Lodge member Allan Brown - thanks Allan)

A beautiful day for the children to join Karen and Fly with some Dog Dancing lessons!

All working in unison!

Up and Over - Spice dancing with Kath to "If I Only Had A Brain" - another audience "favourite"

Karen and Erin demonstrating more Freestyle .................

and Erin - looking significantly like a Kangaroo! ............ getting a great reward - running for the ball.

Another "Wizard of Oz" performance in a little sunshine on Day two which was mostly wet and cloudy.

Fly joins Erin at the end of the Top Lodge displays - after two days and still not looking tired. The Top Lodge Dogs have a thoroughly enjoyable life.

Thank you to Abergavenny Steam Rally for inviting Top Lodge to entertain at this wonderfully organised show.

And thanks to David Hardman for ensuring the music was played correctly for each routine.

The Seminars in France

2011-05-23T08:42:00.000+01:00

The training sessions began on Saturday morning with Kath and Karen having Mireille Poupard

their translator for the weekend. She was superb and took great interest in all the work covered.

Not having their own dogs with them - meant some of the training needed a "stooge dog" so Kath took to the floor whilst Karen showed the attendees what to do.

This was then followed by individual attention and tuition to each handler.

Sometimes its was easier to demonstrate with the handlers' dogs.

This gave those learning time to watch in detail.

Karen demonstrates handler movement - an important part of Heelwork To Music and better practiced without your dog.

Lunch time at the venue - under the shade of the trees.

And eating yet again after one of the training days. It was good for Karen and Kath to have quality time with these handlers who had travelled from France, Germany, Belgium, Germany and Switzerland

Another eating opportunity - this time at a local Pizzeria.

All recovering from two days hard work!

Time to relax - Karen takes a shady seat with Mireille and her poodles.

A visit to Corinne's training area.

And yes!!! Time to eat yet again!

Beautiful food before setting off to the airport.

The French Border.

The Rhine - looking very low. It has been very dry weather and the river is far too low for this time of year.
The Rhine - like a beautiful holiday location with sandy beach.

Thank you to Corinne for inviting Kath and Karen to help you with your HTM and Freestyle. And thank you to Vincianne Hubert for her photographs from the training days.

Training In France

2011-05-22T21:05:00.000+01:00

Karen and Kath were invited to to present a Seminar in France whilst at the World Dog Show in Denmark in June 2010.

They flew to Stuttgart Airport in Germany - the closest airport to the venue in Seltz, France where they were collected by Corinne and her husband Steve who had waited patiently at the airport as the flight had been delayed by almost 1 hour.

The seminar was held in Seltz, a small picturesque town the Alsace region in north-eastern France.

Hotel Des Bois where they stayed during the visit.

The fabulous fresh salad available in the local supermarket.

The produce was so well presented and everything was so much bigger than in the UK - no wonder the French are food critiques when they can get this wonderful quality at the supermarkets!

A visit to the Seminar venue. A lovely sized well ventilated building which would keep cool through out the weekend

Plenty of space - with a large stage and kitchen area for the preparation of lunch.

Mireille Poupard our translator for the weekend, was camping nearby the venue, she was to be the translator for the event. On the camp site, storks have been reared for a few years - and now they have too many!

Some storks are still using the purpose built nest holders. Other birds were to be seen entering the heavily laden nests as they too had decided to make use of the storks nests.

And it was the season for chicks.

There were 4 chicks inside just one nest.

The parents could be seen flying off and gathering moss containing insects which they brought back to the nests.

Other storks had made nests up in the trees.

Synchronised sun bathing!

The storks were a beautiful sight once in flight.

The visit to around Seltz was followed by Kath and Karen being met by Corinne, Steve and Mireille and taken on a trip to see Strasbourg. This building is the European Parliament.

The European Palace of Human Rights

Then a tram ride into the city centre - the grass certainly beautified the tram tracks.

On board the tram

Again the tram tracks are lawned.

Kath and Karen were invited for lunch provided by one of the seminar attendees, Etienne in his beautiful garden with beautiful roses.

His garden was immaculate.

And the lunch? Wow!! 5 courses of home prepared food!

More sight seeing in the afternoon - this building is the cathedral.

On a very hot day - it was good to see the fountains.

The local dogs were happy to stand in the water for a quick cool down.

Inside the Cathedral - a huge organ.

The square in front of the Cathedral with some very old architecture.

Look at the following Blog for more of HTM in France.

Top Lodge Trio At Loughborough Lions Carnival

2011-05-16T15:31:00.008+01:00

Loughborough Lions Carnival Organiser Ann Parsons - contacted the Top Lodge Team as a member of The Loughborough Lions had seen their display in 2010 and had suggested to Ann that they would be good entertainment for the visitors to the next carnival in 2011. The Team were more than happy to travel the short distance to Loughborough for their first appointment of the Season.

The Team arrived in good time to set up and Karen took advantage of the empty Main Arena to run through young Erin's routine and to acquaint her to the showground. The weather was anything but good - spitting heavily with rain and quite cool too.

David found out how attractive it is to hold a small puppy! Denby - 10 weeks old being introduced to the out side world.

First into the Arena were the Leicestershire and Rutland Pipe Band - dressed in their waterproof uniforms and later joined by the British Legion Standard Bearers - the weather did not deter their playing.

The crowds soon started gathering around the ring to watch and listen to the Pipe Band

Next into the arena were the Dako Flying Angels. Thanks to Top Lodge Member Allan Brown for these perfect frozen in mid flight photographs!! and of course - thank you to Allan for all the Top Lodge photographs on their blog!

A sixteen week old Archie, Lesley's new puppy, was very steady and well focused on Lesley whilst the Pipe Band and Dako Gymnasts entertained.

Well synchronised jumps from the Dako Flying Angels.

Commentary inside the ring - introducing the Dancing Dogs. (Thank you)

Kath with Amber explaining Heelwork To Music to the ever increasing audience.

Whilst Lesley and Hamish demonstrate the Heelwork positions with the Lady Mayor watching on.

Karen and Fly followed on from the explanation with their fabulous Crufts 2011 Heelwork to Music routine to Hernando's Hideaway.

Perfect balance - in very slippy conditions too! Well done Karen and Fly.

Kath took to the ring again, this time with her crossbreed, Spice to explain some of the moves which may be included in Canine Freestyle.

And Lesley helped with Angus to explain more of the moves.

Once the Freestyle moves had been explained, the team showed the first freestyle routine of the day - Karen with Kes who danced nimbly to "Me Ol' Bamboo"

Again coping with the slippy, wet grass - both Karen and Kes finished perfectly on the beat.

Angus and Lesley were next to show a great Freestyle routine - to the music "Mame" - this was Lesley's routine shown at Crufts 2011.

Up and over - with his fur flying - Angus jumps as Lesley plays the banjo!

Spice was the final dog in this section of the display with Kath and their popular routine to "Those Magnificent Men In Their Flying Machines".

Gosh - Spice looks a very big dog when balanced on her hind legs!

Photo session for the local press whilst in costume!

And then its time to meet and great the spectators.

Kath trying to perfect a move for a routine for a brace of dogs. Perhaps BGT would be interested! ;-)

Whilst again David introduces Denby to the important ladies visiting the Carnival!

Karen and Erin talk with the Lady Mayoress who had watched the entire performance.

Yet another photo call with the press with all dogs present.

To start the second programme, Kath and Amber opened the entertainment with their Crufts 2011 routine set to "Thoroughly Modern Millie"

Thank goodness the rain had stopped and the day began to feel a little warmer.

Karen with Irish rescue dog Erin followed with their freestyle routine dancing to "Lollipop" by Mika.

Erin is learning well to focus on Karen even in surroundings which are very busy like this Carnival.

Angus taking to the air again - or should that be swimming in the sea - as Lesley joins him dancing to "The Beautiful Briney"

Ship Ahoy!!!!

It was now the turn of the youngsters in the crowd to join Karen and Fly in learning some of the moves.

Could they spin or twirl as fast as Fly? No!!!! But they had fun trying.

All give a paw!!! Perfect!

The children all "Begging" - they were excellent and no doubt the mums and dads were wondering how the Top Lodge Team get the children to behave as well as their dogs!! A clicker is a wonderful "tool".

Finally into the ring - Kath and her Crossbreed Spice performing their Crufts 2008 winning routine to the music from Wizard of Oz, "If I Only Had A Brain"

Thank you to all The Loughborough Lions and everyone who made the day very successful and thoroughly enjoyable.

Denby's Busy Week

2011-05-11T20:15:00.001+01:00

A busy week for new Top Lodge puppy, Denby. He had to go to a puppy sitter over the two day show that Canine Freestyle GB organised at Tomlinsons 7th & 8th May 2011. But he was very well looked after - thank you Sarah and Otis!

Monday 9th May - Kath was booked to give a talk about Heelwork To Music at Lumb Farm for the Ripley Professional & Business Women. This was to be his first Public Appearance.

Beautiful surroundings and all three dogs were on top form. Even Denby received a round of applause. The ladies throughly enjoyed being "entertained".

And then Wednesday - final jabs at the vets. Kath's favourite vet, Chris Mann, Chapel House Veterinary Practice playing with Denby just after the jabs and the Microchip. Thanks Chris for keeping Denby a very happy pup at the vets!!!!

Time for bed - its been a busy week.

Pups Playing!

2011-05-09T16:26:00.002+01:00

Archie (Lesley's new pup DOB 25/01/2011) and Denby (Kath's new pup DOB 03/03/2011) had over 2 hours playing together in the sunshine.

Follow My Leader?

Synchronised Tails!

Gotcha!

No - I got you!!

We got each other! Now what?

I'll practice my Dancing Feet whilst you find a suitable "Start Pose!"

Whoops - "Rock N Roll"

Almost synchronised this time!!

No - that's more than a mouthful!

OK - I'm done in - sleep time - please???

Night Night

A Successful Day at Tomlinsons for Lesley and Angus

2011-05-09T15:57:00.001+01:00

The weekend saw the second Crufts 2012 Semi Final Qualifier, this time being held by "Canine Freestyle GB" - the National Club run by Kath, Karen and Lesley.

Angus was placed 3rd in Advanced Freestyle and has now qualified for the Crufts 2012 Semi Final for Freestyle to be held by Rugby DTC sometime in January 2012.

Good Luck to Lesley and Angus.

Denby's Busy Week

2011-05-09T11:40:00.000+01:00

A busy week for new Top Lodge puppy, Denby. He had to go to a puppy sitter over the two day show that Canine Freestyle GB organised at Tomlinsons 7th and 8th May 2011. But he was very well looked after - thank you Sarah and Otis!

Monday 9th May - Kath was booked to give a talk about Heelwork To Music at Lumb Farm for the Ripley Professional and Business Women. This was to be his first Public Appearance.

Beautiful surroundings and all three dogs were on top form. Even Denby received a round of applause. The ladies throughly enjoyed being "entertained".

And then Wednesday - final jabs at the vets. (10 weeks old) Kath's favourite vet, Chris Mann, Chapel House Veterinary Practice playing with Denby just after the jabs and the Microchip. Thanks Chris for keeping Denby a very happy pup at the vets!!!!

Time for bed - its been a busy week.

Stillmoor Extra Special - 'Denby'

2011-04-24T11:02:00.003+01:00

Denby is the youngest member of Kath and David's household and of the Top Lodge Team. He is a little black and white Border Collie boy. He was born with the same breeder as Amber, but he is only remotely related to her.

Here are some photos from his first day in his new home...

What a big world!
And a very big water bowl too!

Moving in with a new family makes you hungry!

Zzzzzzzzzzz

Archie's First Walk

2011-04-23T11:26:00.000+01:00

Archie has had a busy two days, on Monday the sound of the bagpipes came drifting across the garden so Archie and Lesley went to investigate. A funeral was being held at the Church so Archie listened to his first pipe tune and saw his first kilted man. Now Angus, despite his name, does not like the sound of the pipes but Archie seemed to enjoy them!

Tuesday was the first walk and little Archie took to the idea beautifully. He was so good on the lead and thoroughly enjoyed himself.

Yippee here we go!

OK, are we all ready to go.

A bit of sausage does help.

Bounce, bounce...

Just so good.

Now keep together chaps.

Oooh er, what's that?

Yes, I've got the hang of this now

A Successful Day at Westglen Show for Karen!

2011-04-16T22:29:00.000+01:00

Westglen Show - held the first of the dfs Crufts 2012 Qualifiers in April.

Karen had a very successful day - firstly with Fly in the Qualifier she was placed in FIRST POSITION. And qualified for the Crufts 2012 Semi Final for Heelwork To Music. Good Luck at the Semis Karen!!!!.

And secondly, her youngest dog Erin was placed SECOND in Novice Heelwork To Music which has now moved her into the Intermediate level.

Congratulations and Good Luck in the next level.

And Finally Melbourne

2011-04-11T17:47:00.000+01:00

Karen and Kath moved on to their final destination for training in Melbourne where they were very well looked after by Sue Cordwell and Greg.

Another good Training Venue on the Melbourne Showground.

Everywhere in Australia still very green even though this is the start of Autumn.

The attendees were split into several Discussion Groups

Another of the Groups - one step on into a multi dog routine - Who is that hiding behind the umbrella?

Another Group setting their routine out

One of the largest groups that Kath & Karen had attend their Training Weekends.
Thank you all for joining in.

Sue and Greg's latest recruits to help with the gardening!

Much to the amusement of the wild birds!!

The main Train Station in Melbourne

A sightseeing walk around Melbourne - beautiful architecture

Found in the pavements - follow the route to walk the Golden Mile

A reminder that Easter was coming. So much chocolate.

Lots of small shops for browsing

Melbourne Royal Arcade

Flying Pig spotted!

Found in the streets, laneways and parks of Melbourne Australia are some very creative sculptures.
The three men on their way to work can be found on Swanston St

The ANZ Building

Inside the ANZ Building

The Australia New Zealand Building

View from the top

Melbourne - A very green City

The Ladies' Powder Room - not for those scared of heights!

Thank you to Sue Cordwell for arranging this fabulous sightseeing trip around the City. Very worthwhile.

And again many thanks to everyone who hosted each event. Kath & Karen would love to return again to see what progress the Dancing Dogs have made in Australia.

Moving on to Sydney

2011-04-05T22:22:00.000+01:00

Kath and Karen arrived in Sydney to be met by Loretta who made them both very welcome in her home.

That evening, they were joined by Loretta's husband and they went on a night cruise of Sydney Harbour with dinner. A great cabaret evening on board the old fashioned Steam Boat and wonderful illuminated sights around the harbour.

The Fun Fair as seen from the cruise.

On the Wednesday they travelled to the fabulous Training Venue for those involved in Dancing with Dogs in Sydney and surrounding areas. There was a good crowd eager to learn and of course Karen and Kath were eager to teach too!!!

This venue was carpeted and air conditioned - it really was the smartest of training halls.

A delightful selection of breeds of dogs were in attendance.

All the handlers listened intently to the advice they were given for their particular dog.

Many Cockatoos flying freely in most areas of Australia.

The following day, Loretta took the duo for a well earned day out. A visit to the Blue Mountains was top of the list!

And a trip on the steepest railway in the World.

Its only a short ride but almost vertical. This shows the ride from bottom to top - Kath and Karen did it from Top to Bottom!

Steeped in history of the miners,

And a cable car ride to take the travellers back to the top of the Blue Mountains.

The famous "Three Sisters Mountains"

And then on to the Jenolan Caves

A short time for lunch and a walk (avoiding the snakes!) before a spectacular tour of one of the caves

It was amazing to find out these are the oldest caves in the World.

And the one cave that Karen, Kath and Loretta toured took nearly 90 minutes to cover!

Thank you to Loretta and her husband Glen for the sightseeing in and around Sydney and thank you to all who attended their Training Day.

Training Days in Brisbane

2011-04-01T08:37:00.000+01:00

Karen and Kath's first visit to the venue to be used for the Brisbane Training Days was on the Friday night as the attendees had arranged a Cabaret Night of entertainment with Dinner.

The floor surface was concrete - and quite shiny but it was good to see that the "performers" carefully ensured that their dogs were not moving too fast or jumping to save injury. It was a brilliant large area.

A new version of the Sorcerer's Apprentice.

None stop entertainment - some handlers performing 3 or 4 routines during the evening.

A mixture of breeds - including some rescue dogs like this wonderful Standard Poodle.

A very enthusiastic Boxer - this handler was very pleased - along with everyone watching - as it was the best performance ever achieved with this dog. Congratulations.

It was a great set up with a Commentator and DJ in attendance.

It was good for Kath and Karen to see the handlers and dogs who would be attending the weekend of training.

First Prize for entertainment and innovation to Coral and her GSD. Coral was the entertainer here - the dog almost a prop! But Coral had ingeniously choreographed a very clever piece of Canine Freestyle.

Whoops!!! Every move was perfect for the theme!

And this handler who normally works her dogs in Working Trials decided that the Cabaret Night was her night to "come out"!! Yes, to the amusement of her friends, she "blinged up" for the first time and looked very good too!

A lovely Labrador sets the pace in this routine.

Gay with her second performance of the evening with Gemma "dancing" to an Australian Theme.

And the final performance was this Batman Routine

- so many "props" setting the stage for a routine to be videoed and entered into an American Competition.

The training days were well attended.

The training venue kept cool during the day.

A significant part of the training covered Choreography.

Involving all of the 37 participants.

The umbrellas were out for this theme - and outside there was a very loud storm with rain falling heavily for a prolonged time! Of course Brisbane has suffered from vast flooding earlier in the year.

Kath and Karen would like to thank all those who attended their training sessions in Brisbane.
They enjoyed every moment of the teaching and of course the food and sightseeing!

Hope to return again another time.

Kath & Karen visit Australia - The Journey

2011-03-31T19:58:00.000+01:00

The invitation from Australia arrived many months ago and needed a lot of planning as this would be the longest time away from home for Kath & Karen. Flying to Australia was a daunting journey - but deciding on a night flight seemed to be the best option - leaving on a Tuesday Night and arriving on the Thursday morning with a short stop over in Singapore.

They travelled the first leg of the journey on the new A380 - a double decker plane!! Seated on row 74 on the upper deck - this was one very large plane carrying 100 more passengers than a Jumbo Jet (with first Class, Business Class and Economy Class Passengers) and with a wing span of an unbelievable 79.8 metres!!!! The A380-800 is certified for up to 853 passengers (538 on the main deck and 315 on the upper deck), achievable with a one-class configuration.

A three hour stop over in Singapore gave them time to wander around the Butterfly Garden - a bit too hot in there though at 30 degrees C.

But it was lovely to be walking around with the butterflies

Flowers are cut and placed in strategic places for the tourists to see the feeding butterflies.

And time to stop, relax and watch the Koi Carp. What a beautiful airport.
Karen & Kath also booked into the hotel for a shower during their stop over and feeling quite refreshed after the first flight of 13 hours they finished the trip to Brisbane with a second flight of just over 7 hours.

On arriving at Brisbane at 7:00am, they were met at the Airport by their First Host in Australia - and chief organiser of their visit - Gay Westmore. Gay took them to her beautiful home and then whisked them off to Australia Zoo. No time for Jet lag!! The Zoo was founded by the famous Steve Irwin who died in 2006.

Karen makes friends with one of the "wild" Iguanas.

Two large parrots displaying their fast flight in unison.

The crocodile display - they can move very fast once they have sought out their prey.

Camels - now native in Australia. Brought over in the Victorian times to assist with the moving of building materials for the railways. Now breeding very well!

The Cassowary is a large, flightless bird from Australia. It is the biggest bird in Australia and the second-biggest bird in the world (only the ostrich is bigger). The cassowary's life span is about 40-50 years.

A sunbathing crocodile - this old beast was enormous - but had no teeth left!!!

Karen and a different type of owl. This is a Barking Owl.

And a Wombat out for a stroll.

The smaller Grey Kangaroos - it was lovely to be able to walk amongst these animals and stroke them.

Is this one practicing for Kangaroo Heelwork To Music? ;-)

And Koalas - many of them - very slow animals that just eat all day and night.

Kath & Karen actually saw one moving!! A very rare sight.

The elephant display - the smallest elephant is actually the oldest in the Trio.

And this is Gay - who took them to the zoo and looked after K&K on their first day in Australia. With her beautiful dogs, Gemma, Talli (Kelpie) and Piper. Gay invited some of her HTM friends to a welcome dinner for K&K the first night after which they slept very well.

The following morning, Kath & Karen were collected from Gay's home by Col and Barbara Murfet who drove them to the Gold Coast for more sight seeing.

One of the many venomous spiders found in Australia.

Barbara and Col Murfet shared their home with Karen & Kath for the next 3 nights.

The Gold Coast - quite dull but a magnificent beach on any day!

A Meter Maid - they collect donated money and then "feed" the parking meters so no one is given a fine!!! Very popular ladies in more ways than one!

The view from the bottom of the Q1 Building - the highest sky scraper on the Gold Coast.

And this is one of the views from the top of Q1. Wow!!! The Observation Deck is at Level 77

Many canals and the river flow through Brisbane making it a very pretty city.

Lunchtime and this was Fish and Chips with a difference - you choose the type and piece of fish you want cooking.

The Ibis bird - the Australian equivalent to the GB Pigeon. Wading birds that have found plenty of food dropped in the cafes and restaurants on the Gold Coast.

Archie - the new member of the Top Lodge Team

2011-03-21T18:38:00.000Z

Lesley collected her new puppy today

This is Archie, Working Bearded Collie born on Lesley's Birthday 25th January 2011

And here he is with Angus - both behaving nicely - so far ;-)
Looks like Hamish didn't want to be photograghed with new puppy Archie.

dfs Crufts 2011 - The Samsung Stand

2011-03-15T11:06:00.004Z

Samsung kindly invited Kath and Karen to demonstrate the sport of Heelwork To Music on both Thursday and Saturday

They carefully explained both Heelwork and Freestyle with the help of their dogs Fly, Spice(pictured), Amber and Erin to an ever increasing audience.

Kath explains the way to start teaching a young dog to jump and start interacting with the handler whilst Karen demonstrates this with Erin the Top Lodge Team's youngest member

Volunteers from the audience were invited on stage to try weaving a dog through their legs. Amber is working nicely for this young man

Whilst this volunteer learning to work with Erin looks very serious!

You can't keep too serious with this sport - the dogs soon lifts the pressure

And a young lady now shows she can master the technique of weaving with Erin

Whilst this young lady manages to show elegance and gain speed with Amber

Teaching moves safely is of paramount importance to the Top Lodge Team

Erin is only allowed to be positioned higher from the ground when she is steady and relaxed enough to be able to sustain a very nice sit position.

Children were then invited to the stand to see if they could be quicker than Fly in changing position - lifting a paw

Walking Backwards

And finally Rolling over!! They were very keen and as the audience shows - the demonstration by Kath & Karen and their wonderful dogs was very popular at Crufts 2011

Thank you to all at Samsung for inviting us.

Samsung Electronics (UK) Ltd

Since 1993, Samsung has been a proud Partner of Crufts and continues its support for Animal Welfare.

As a corporate philosphy, Samsung values harmony between humanity and animal welfare.

Samsung is also involved in funding Samsung Guide Dogs for the Blind, the only one of its kind in Korea, where growing numbers of dogs are trained every year. The company also works with the Royal New Zealand Foundation for the Blind Guide Dog School to ensure that its trainers are certified to the highest international standards.

Samsung has also received the Lesley Scott-Ordish Award from leading UK charity, PRO Dogs, for its outstanding services for the benefit of dogs.

dfs Crufts 2011 - Competition Days Karen & Fly

2011-03-15T10:33:00.001Z

The Heelwork To Music Final with Karen and Fly

For their routine this year Karen and Fly worked to "Hernando's Hideaway"

Very dramatic music which suits Karen and Fly

Fly's enthusiasm is continual which gives her a great attitude in Heelwork

Covering all of the eight officially recognised Heelwork positions and then adding many different directions gives a programme full of variety

Fly's precision was excellent

And when Karen was moving her arms to the Tango Theme of the music - Fly looked superb

The final pose - great routine Karen and Fly who were placed 4th