A Lull

We actually have one day with no boarding dogs in so I am going to put the finishing coat on the floor then we are ready for summer. This coat is specialist for kennels and will not be affected by dogs claws and we can pressure hose it with no ill effect. I am determined to keep it all looking as smart as it is now and never smelly.

We have been having real problems with the horses not letting us clean their ears so have resorted to a very simple, sedating method called a twitch.
You have a stick with a loop of sting and take their top lip and in effect restrict the circulation. This releases endorphins in their brain and they are very sleepy which allows you to complete the treatments much more safely and effectively. Once the twitch is removed they are fully alert with no after effects.

cleaning, cleaning, cleaning

I am giving the cattery a thorough, spring clean. I have hoovered every nook and cranny and my eldest son is painting and freshening up the wood work.

We have found some lovely paint to do the floor in both the cattery and dog boarding so that is the next job.

He is coming to the end of his GCSE's and with the unemployment in the youth of today there is ever increased amount of pressure for them to do well. Fingers crossed. He does care which is half the battle.

I still haven't ridden for ages, partly as so busy but also having saddle problems. Think I have it sorted though.

We have new neighbours who seem very nice and reasonable so I am happy as living in such a secluded area is easier just knowing you have nice people on your door step.

My feet have hardly touched the floor :)

I cannot believe how busy I have been with boarding dogs, cats and small pets.
It took me pretty much all day to tend them all, to ensure a good level of care and attention all round.

I had a Collie who had managed to eat rat poison a few days before she came to me so she needed special care and attention and vitamin K. What a responsibility. I had a few others guests on medication too. I really should charge for the administration of it.

My own dogs are settling to the visitors although i'm not sure that they are very impressed with it all.
I have had some of my girls in season too.
Pippa has mated a poodle so we should have Jackapoos
Jilly has also mated a poodle to create Labradoodles. First cross
Bae is having a rest this time around much to her disgust.

I only have a couple more to come into season so they should be all done for my busy summer time.

The horses are all very well but rather fat with all this lovely, lush grass.
My boys and I set out to do a ragwart pull in the horses field as it is poisonous if they eat it. I could not believe how much there was. We filled 2 big bins and have much more left. Years ago we never had a problem with it as there is a small orange and black caterpillar that eats it but nower days it has been killed off by use insecticides.

I haven't ridden very much as have just been so busy but I would like to do a dressage competition before the end of the year. Just the one :)
I am trying to get hold of a saddle flocker (stuffer) at the moment to alter our saddles but how hard is that proving?
There are so few of them around, good ones any way.