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Crufts - Day Three



Endal, dog of the millenium.
Click on photo for larger image.

I've seen many celebrities in the press room at Crufts, and I've always left them in peace, as they're usually on a break or eating a quick meal or snack and I don't want to intrude. However, I saw one yesterday that I couldn't resist asking if I could approach. It was Endal, the dog of the millennium. His story is amazing
, he and Allen Parton found each other when each was in a very dark place, with a future that looked bleak. Despite that Endal became Allen's assistance dog, and the bond between them is heart warming. I can't read the story without my eyes filling up - but you know by now I'm like that about dogs!

So there I was with Endal just a few feet away. I wanted to leave him in peace, but I really wanted to say hello to him. I wavered, but in the end I asked Allen if I and Jenny could go and say hello, which we did. He was lovely, and I'm so glad I broke my celebrity rule. Allen was telling me that Crufts 2009 would be Endal's last public appearance, and after that it would be a full retirement for him. I hope it's a long and happy one. EJ (Endal Junior) is ready to take Endal's place at Allen's side, and I hope they develop an equally strong partnership.

Allen now writes a blog in the magazine Dogs Today, and there is also a book of their story Endal: How One Extraordinary Dog Brought a Family Back from the Brink.

I also caught up with the determined SOFA club (http://speaking-out-for-animals.co.uk/SOFA/index.html) with their wonderful teacher Sue Cole. They are mounting a campaign to have microchipping made a legal requirement. The TV vet Marc Abraham is their patron, and was extremely enthusiastic about the group when I spoke to him about them. It was certainly refreshing to meet such a group of articulate, determined and thoroughly polite young ladies. I hope they achieve their aim - and I suspect they will!

Take care,

Julie x