Dogs that Save Lives
Guide Dogs for the Blind Association
Exciting news! Dogs Direct UK is thrilled to welcome the Guide Dogs for the Blind Association to our summer festival. Witness their incredible work in the "Dogs that Save Lives" arena, where the team will guide you through the process of how these extraordinary dogs become guides.
With over years of experience, the association has developed a wide range of services, both with and without dogs, to support individuals living with vision impairment, spanning children and adults. Their expert staff, devoted volunteers, and life-changing dogs are dedicated to helping you lead an active, independent, and fulfilling life.
As a charity primarily funded by donations, they stand as the world's largest assistance dog organisation. Pioneers in puppy socialisation and dog training, they are unique in breeding and training guide dogs in the UK. Moreover, they hold the distinction of being the largest employer of specialists committed to assisting children and young people in overcoming the challenges of sight loss.
Don't miss the chance to celebrate the remarkable abilities of our canine companions on June 29th and 30th, 2024!
Super Spaniel Show
Introducing Chloé Fuller, the host behind The Super Spaniel Show, an awe-inspiring performance unveiling the daily routines of Assistance Dogs.
Chloé showcases the diverse tasks these incredible animals perform to help individuals with disabilities. Meet the stars of the show, Ted and Cinna, as they demonstrate their remarkable abilities.
Protection Dogs Display
Elite Demo Dogs – Protection Dog Demonstration
We are excited to welcome Elite Demo Dogs to our event, where they will showcase the incredible training that goes into creating protection and working dogs for professional roles, such as police and security.
Elite Demo Dogs specialise in training dogs for high-level security and protection work. With years of experience in the field, their expert trainers will demonstrate the essential skills needed to turn a dog into a highly effective and disciplined working partner. From obedience training to protection techniques, their demonstrations provide a fascinating look into the world of professional canine work.
In their session, Elite Demo Dogs will show how their dogs are trained to assist with the police, security, and even personal protection, ensuring both handler and public safety. These highly trained dogs undergo rigorous training to perform in real world scenarios, from detecting intruders to providing security at high profile events.
The demonstration will highlight the physical and mental training required to create a working dog capable of handling complex tasks, with insights into their role in keeping our communities safe. Whether you are fascinated by police dogs or interested in learning more about how these dogs perform, this session is a must-see!
Trail Hunt International
Trail Hunt International – Scent Work Sport Demonstration
We are excited to welcome Trail Hunt International to our event, where they will showcase an innovative and engaging scent work sport that combines elements of tracking and trailing.
Trail Hunt International is a dynamic canine sport designed to harness and enhance a dog’s natural scenting abilities. Handlers will demonstrate how dogs are trained to follow a specific odour trail laid in the environment, leading them to a designated “Trail Pod” at the end of the trail. This sport offers a perfect blend of tracking and trailing, making it accessible to all dogs and handlers, regardless of experience level.
In their demonstration, Trail Hunt International will highlight:
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Training Techniques: How dogs are taught to follow an odour trail using positive reinforcement methods.
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Equipment Used: Essential tools such as a good-fitting Y-fronted harness, a 10m longline, and a tasty reward or favourite toy.
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Benefits of Scent Work: The mental and physical stimulation dogs receive from scent work, which is equivalent to an hour’s walk in just ten minutes of activity.
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Getting Started: Information on how to get involved in Trail Hunt International, including foundation courses, practice sessions, and progression workshops.
Whether you are new to scent work or looking to expand your dog’s skill set, this demonstration will provide valuable insights into the world of scent detection and trailing.
Hope Therapy Dogs
Hope Therapy Dogs – Meet the Team & Learn About Their Work
We are thrilled to welcome Hope Therapy Dogs to our event, where you will have the unique opportunity to meet the team and learn how their amazing dogs are trained to provide emotional and mental health support.
Hope Therapy Dogs work tirelessly to support children, young people, and adults through animal-assisted therapy. In their session, you will gain an insight into the vital work the dogs do and how they are trained to assist in schools, hospitals, and community settings, helping those who may be struggling with anxiety, stress, or other challenges.
During the demonstration, the team will:
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Introduce the dogs: Meet the wonderful therapy dogs and learn about their roles in supporting emotional well-being.
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Learn about training: Discover how these dogs are trained to provide comfort, calmness, and companionship in a professional environment.
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Interactive activities: The team will invite children into the ring to meet the dogs and take part in fun and engaging activities designed to highlight the positive impact therapy dogs can have.
Whether you are interested in learning more about the incredible work therapy dogs do, or you want to see the bond between the dogs and the people they help, this session promises to be an inspiring and heartwarming experience for all ages.
