Allie

A couple of things which aren´t in the video ...

Dima arrived with four dogs and immediately pointed out that it was getting hot and there was no shade where the Editor had set up the camera. We suggested that we move to a shadier place and I asked Dima if he had water for the dogs (none of us had dogs with us). Apparently Dima does not think it is a good idea to carry water for dogs on hot days. Interestingly, whilst he told us that his dogs are never more than 40´ away or out of his sight he did not appear to have noticed that during the interview one of the dogs disappeared for about five minutes and came back wet - obviously he´d discovered a nearby ditch to lie in to cool off and have a drink. (We didn´t move by the way).

Dima did not complete his degree in animal physiology either in the Ukraine or in the U.K. He denied various reports that he had worked training animals in circuses in Russia, although his display of dog dancing reminded me of things I had seen as a child but which are banned in circuses here now. Why it is so fashionable in the dog world I do not know - but each to his own.

Dima initially said that he needs to work with owners and their dogs together, but when I pointed out that his website merely states "owners presence preferred" he agreed that some dogs arrive with drivers, housekeepers, nannies, etc. - none of whom have the vaguest interest in the dog.
I have no idea how this works for the dogs or the owners, but - let it pass. It´s a fact of life I suppose.

It´s only my opinion, but I thought that the Staffie he had with him (only for five days) would have been better wearing a harness than a collar since - as you can see in the video - there was a lot of pulling against the collar when Dima was holding it, and subsequent throat-clearing.

I am STILL hearing things about Dima´s treatment of dogs. The latest was about five days after the interview was filmed and concerned an incident on the Heath Extension, although Dima assured me that he no longer walks his dogs there. I have no way of corroborating this report but it was claimed that a complaint was made to the Heath managers and that they are dealing with it, so maybe we will learn more in due course. Then again - maybe not.

My beloved Allie was put to sleep on 29th December 2009 having been diagnosed with inoperable, untreatable cancer on the 14th November. It was a terrible shock as previously I have looked after all of my animals into old age. I was in no way prepared to lose a very vigorous 11 year old so quickly. I still can´t believe she´s gone. My other dog, Amber, was my friend Helen´s last guide dog and I inherited her when Helen died in September 2007 aged 94. I have a sneaky feeling she is rather enjoying being the only resident dog - but that will all change in about a year when I get another rescue dog. Sorry, Amber.

allie you are adorable xxx