Dogpeople Limited passionately believes in responsible dog ownership as a precursor to the wider acceptance of dogs by society as a whole.  We strongly advocate responsible ownership by visitors in the tourism sector - we take as much care about Hamish's impact on his surroundings whilst away as we do at home.  For example, we make sure we scoop and use an appropriate bin, we keep him off furnishings (other than his own bed ... of course), we dry and clean him if he's been on a muddy walk (at least a 'towelling' before going into a pub or other place to eat) and we keep him under general control so he doesn't interfere with others (but, at the same time, we make sure people who want to meet him can - so many children are really keen to stroke him).

We also believe responsible dog ownership enriches Hamish's life.  This is our number one priority for him and is why we always take him on holiday with us (rather than pack him off to the kennels whilst we enjoy ourselves elsewhere) - the inspiration for this website.  We never leave him alone in a car for more than a minute or two - and never on a warm day (never mind a hot one!).  We look after his health and diet.  We make sure he is well trained and obedient (as far as his incredibly strong Airedale will allows - we look upon this as an asset, but patience and firmness are required from time to time!).  We try and keep his coat in good order and 'trim' - but are much more concerned that is appropriate to the weather conditions (longer in winter) and his other needs than it conforms to any 'breed standard'.  These days he is full of lumps and bumps - and he has always hated being clipped or brushed - so we groom him ourselves in the hope we can minimise his discomfort whilst not doing too much damage to his 'come and meet me' good looks.

The Kennel Club's purpose is "to promote, in every way, the general improvement of dogs".  It does this in a number of ways and Dogpeople Limited are happy to be associated with some key measures.  Among these are the Responsible Dog Ownership campaign (www.thekennelclub.org.uk/item/1287)  - including the Good Citizen Dog Scheme - and their Open For Dogs campaign (www.thekennelclub.org.uk/item/1664).  Use the image links in our 'bottom banner spaces' to request your Open for Dogs sticker or to find out more about the Good Citizen Dog Scheme.