Robyn enjoyed a staycation

Robyn recently had a holiday!

Actually, it was his Volunteer Puppy Trainers Guy and Heather who went on holiday, so another volunteer, Sue, looked after little (or not so little any more) Robyn. This is why our network of volunteers is so fantastic. They all help each other out. We really could not help deaf people without them.

Robyn had a wonderful time!

First of all, she made some new friends.

Sue tells us all about this: "He's my littlest grandson (18 months) and Robyn was brilliant with him. I also have a 5-year old grandson and 11-year old granddaughter who all played with her."

What is it about dogs and children that they get along so well together? Robyn is clearly besotted with her new pal!

She also 'made friends' with the hosepipe.

Back to Sue: "The hosepipe was her idea. I was trying to water my vegetables and tubs but she just kept intercepting it and made hilarious faces while doing so!"

That's definitely an action shot of Robyn.

Sue also did a fabulous job of maintaining Robyn's training. Here's proof:

So, what's going on in those videos? 

Well, we want all our puppies to be well-behaved, so that they're no bother to their eventual deaf partners. A very important part of this is not just acting on all their impulses, otherwise they'd be chasing squirrels, snaffling food from plates, and all manner of behaviour that, while amusing sometimes, could be a real problem. Imagine if one of our dogs ran into the road pulling its partner behind it, or caused chaos in a café?

So, we teach our puppies impulse control. This means that they know they'll get a treat if they do the right thing - which, in this case, is waiting for the cue to eat. And Robyn does it brilliantly! From now on, her deaf partner will know that Robyn will be a good girl, and will wait when getting out of the car, or onto public transport, or when visiting the vets. Well done Robyn, and well done Sue!

After a fab time together, Sue made sure her last day with Robyn was extra special, so they went for a day trip to Cliveden (ooh, posh!)  

Sue laughs: "She looks like she owns the place! Shame I wasn’t able to let her run free with Covid-19 restrictions, but we had some great walks. She’s very well behaved and sits beautifully for her photos."

Yes, she does sit very nicely doesn't she? We're not sure if this is a big dog and small hall...

... or a small dog and a massive gate!

Overall, we suspect Robyn had a wonderful time. What do you think?

Yes, it's true, dogs definitely smile, and Robyn is definitely smiling there!

She's continuing to do really well now she's back with Guy and Heather, and we'll give you the latest in your next Pupdate. Until then, again, from all of us... thank you for sponsoring Robyn!