Dog Channel finally launches on Tuesday 23rd October 2007, on Information TV, Sky Channel 167.

After much planning and filming the pilot episode of The Dog Channel finally went to air on Tuesday 23rd October at 4pm on Information TV. This edition is  repeated every Tuesday at 4pm, Thursday at 7.30pm, Saturday at 3pm and Sunday at 7pm, and at the same days and times for the next five weeks After that it’s a new programme every two weeks. Also don’t forget that it’s also simulcast on the Information TV website.. We’d like to thank all those who have taken part in this first edition, and all those who have sent us emails of support. Here’s to what looks to be a long and prosperous future for the channel.

BE DOGWISE with Caring Canines

Caring Canines, the Bournemouth based dog assisted therapy ground have commenced delivery of their BE DOGWISE programme with a visit to Townsend First School.

The programme, covering “Safety in Dogs Company” and “Responsible Dog Ownership”, is a free presentation for schools and youth groups.

Members of the group also recently visited Montacute School on Canford Heath, to help students with their Duke of Edinburgh Gold Award project, and the subject they chose was “Working Dogs in the Community”.

 CARING CANINE dogs offer their own unique brand of therapy across the community, from pre-school groups to the very elderly, helping dog phobic people, those with low self esteem and poor social skills, and people who are isolated and withdrawn.

TV Presenter Tim Vincent launches  campaign to find best dog walks.

Former Blue Peter presenter, Tim Vincent, and his dog Ruby launched the Winalot Roasts Walkies Campaign in Regent’s park - a nationwide search to find the best dog walks across the country.

Tim says: “Getting out and about with your dog is a great way to spend your time, which is why I am delighted to be launching this campaign. When I’m at home in Wales, I love walking with Ruby and enjoying the fresh country air. Not only is it a good way for us to bond, but we both encourage each other to go that little bit further.”

A recent study by the American Journal of Alternative Medicine 2007, found that dog owners walk an average of 300 minutes a week, as opposed to 168 minutes for those without a dog.

According to the British Journal of Health, pet owners have:-

• Lower stress levels
• Lower blood pressure
• Lower cholesterol
• Reduced anxiety
• Fewer common ailments (colds/back ache etc.)

Dr. Peter Neville, Animal Behaviour Therapist, confirms the benefits of walking with your dog; he believes it’s essential for a good quality of life for owner and dog.

“A good walk after a large meal like a roast dinner, or in a dog’s case, a meal of Winalot Roasts, is beneficial to both dog and dog owner. Exercising and playing with your dog after a meal not only has huge health benefits but is also the perfect activity for strengthening the bond between dog and dog owner. It’s a fun and relaxing activity the whole family can enjoy and is the perfect opportunity to unwind and provide your dog with the essential daily exercise required”.

Winalot Roasts is encouraging you to put your route on the map and nominate your favourite dog walk. if you think your favourite walk with your dog stands out above the rest then log onto www.winalot-dog.co.uk/walkies, before the 12th of November, for your chance of winning a weekend break to a dog friendly hotel, a trophy, and a years supply of Winalot Roasts.

Caring Canines need your help!!!!

Caring Canines is a voluntary non-profit dog assisted therapy group based in Bournemouth and are seeking dedicated dog owners who would be willing to visit on a regular basis and share their pet with those more vunerable members in the community who are unable to have a companion of their own.

Members and their registered dogs visit venues in Dorset, from Upton to Highcliffe, via Poole, Bournemouth, Wimborne and Christchurch.

New members are always welcome and at present they have 4 venues eagerly awaiting their very own special volunteer team.

• Poole - a special needs day centre seeks confident medium/large breeds to visit once a month.
• Westbourne - a psychiatric residential unit seeks outgoing medium/large breeds to visit once a fortnight or once a month.
• Bournemouth - a residential elderly persons home seeks small quiet breeds to visit once a fortnight
• Southbourne - a residential elderly persons home seeks small/medium quiet breeds to visit once a month.

Venues will be found for anyone who joins the group and full support is given at all times, and a varied social and fundraising events programme is maintained throughout the year.

For more information call 01202 764625 or 01202 579744 or visit the website www.caringk9s.webden.co.uk