Crete Kennels: March Update

Peter and Kimberley write: ‘It’s still raining (and don’t we just know it! - ed), but working in between downpours Peter has now managed to produce the start of the running track for our doggie guests (the imported flymo was a great help!).

We still have 60 kg of grass seed to go down, but we have learnt from the last rains… we want the seed to stay on our land this time so we are trying to be patient. The track has been already in use by Kimberley , a keen runner—as some of our readers may remember, Kimberley put in a highly creditable performance at the 10 kilometre component of the Athens marathon in 2007. Anyway two laps around the field with each dog is proving great fun and good exercise for hostess and guests alike—as you can see from our pictures.

One of us is often ready with a camera, but we still miss some of those funny or cute shots of the dogs whilst they’re playing - but we still have those memories which helps to keep us smiling , whatever the weather!

This month we have witnessed the distress caused by the failure to keep dogs’ vaccinations up to date. You may think that if you live here it ’s not as important as it is if you live in the UK. Not so! Quite aside from the fundamental welfare issues involved, unfortunate circumstances can lead to Brits having to go back to the UK urgently. Without up to date injections, pets may have to stay in Crete which, even with the care and love that we can give them, is an additional source of stress and anxiety for the owners.

Time flies and it is coming up to Easter again! As this update goes to press we are rapidly getting filled up – please phone soon if you have plans to be away over the holiday season and need us to look after your dogs - whichever Easter you are celebrating - Orthodox or Catholic!’

Canine tip for the coming month: Cut the grass and weed your garden as soon as possible to help prevent midges. And if there is any standing water on your land, drain it or fill it in if at all possible to avoid mosquitoes