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"I wanted to take a moment and let you know what a FABULOUS experience camp was for both of my dogs this year. (As it always seems to be).
The scenery and location of camp is absolutely amazing, with Lake Joe
providing an almost unreal view. The water and swimming area were used at
least twice daily by my dogs and the waterfront appeared to always have at
least one dog running and playing at all times. It was great that they
could swim and play making new friends and getting exercise.
I enjoyed the wine and cheese and think it is a great ice breaker for all
campers new and old to mix and mingle at their own pace and a chance to
get comfortable with the surroundings and each other. Also this years ice
breaker game was a neat twist.
I was very interested in the lectures and found especially the "Doc Sue" chiropractic session of interest, as well as the first speaker on Homeopathic and "alternative" medicine. If they or others in their field were to be at camp next year I think it would be great to have sign up sessions (for additional fees) to see them one to one as is offered for the Animal Communication and Tellington Touch instructors. With regards to the instructors I was able to have the pleasure of working with one dog in Search and Rescue while someone else worked with the other in Tellington Touch. I must say that it was a pleasure to work with such a qualified and experienced person in her field Susan Read. It was a remarkable learning experience and great exercise for the dogs and handlers both physically as well as mentally. I found that her passion for this carried over into the group as a whole and it was great to see how much all the dogs were able to learn in a weekend. She has been in many situations and knew just how to get each of the dogs revved up to succeed at what was asked of them. Also having Beth there to help her out was nice in the way that we were able to split into two smaller groups. She was excited to be at camp working with us and our dogs and this showed. My Aunt was working with my other dog in Tellington Touch and after each training session had nothing but great things to say and new things to teach and share with me that would help the dogs out. Nella exhibited great patience and experience with each of the dogs she had in the group. The ratio of dog to instructor in this group was remarkable with each dog getting one on one attention during each of the training sessions. The fun matches are a nice way to end the weekend Sunday afternoon. As it has been the past three years the Iron Dog competition was the most talked about and for us the most challenging (other than obedience so close to the waterfront-hahaha).
My overall impression of camp is that it is always a great time for the people as well as the dogs. I know the dogs had fun as they were more than willing to go back to each training session looking to get back at it or whatever activity was next on the agenda, then curl up and go to sleep when we got home. I will defiantly be coming to camp next year and look forward to registering early to secure our spots. I hope to pass on the positive experience of Camp Dogwood North to as many people as possible so that they do not miss out on a wonderful weekend of bonding and learning with their best friend.
THANK YOU for all the time and energy that is put into organizing such a great event."
Marcie
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