I have personal experience in dealing with puppies, elderly dogs and dogs of different temperaments. Animals have always played an important role in my life. As a child I grew up in St Helen’s Woods where we had a small holding of chickens, ducks, goats and even a Shetland pony. We had a wonderful family dog called Paddy who was an Irish Setter and who lived to a ripe old age of 16. Later on my parents rescued a little Yorkshire Terrier called Millie, who’s favourite place was always sitting on someone’s lap. When my own children were old enough, my partner and I introduced a Parson’s Terrier puppy into the family, called Poppy. She had a huge character (and attitude at times) and I’m sure she thought she was the size of a Great Dane! Sadly, at Christmas, our current family dog, Rolo, died of cancer. He was a rescue dog and a Staffie and a Collie cross and was 15. There is now a huge dog shaped hole in our lives! I wouldn’t want one of my beloved dogs to go to a kennel - I would want them to stay in a loving family home where they would be treated as part of that family, where they would be safe, happy and cherished. Before coming to stay I would highly recommend having an introductory meeting with me so that I can get to know your dog’s individual needs, their likes and their dislikes, which will encourage them to settle in quicker but also importantly, reassure you.