Gail Skinner as a young teenager in Africa would have never guessed her forever ‘Crufts’ dream would be granted. Her humble but determined beginnings with animals gave her the passion and zeal she exudes, especially when she is around her friends.
The ‘canine’ variety. It is more than a bond; it is a complete understanding of the whole dog. “Not just their behaviour, but their evolution, anatomy and the complex way they interact with humans.” Gail is very specific. “I am not just teaching people how to train dogs. I’m teaching them how to understand dogs.” Gail has her own magic and it shows. “Reading the dog, working with them not against them. It’s all about building partnerships. Not just giving commands.”
Through hard work and dedication, she and her dogs have earned many accredited titles; Senior Instructor at UK’s Xtra Dog and Lead Trainer of OFQAL Dog Instructor Course. Having just returned from ‘Crufts’ she has seen her life, flash past her eyes. “The atmosphere is unbelievable.” Gail is beaming at the memory of her experience. “I can’t describe the thrill.” Working with the breeds and the owners was a busy schedule, and in between her working in the rings with the prize dogs, Gail was busy launching her book, ‘For Dog’s Sake’. No time for her to deflate from the ‘happy cloud’. Gail was asked to take part in the TV Production ‘Celebrity Coach Trip Portugal’ hosted by Brandon. “It was hectic, a one-day dog training session, with each of the celebrities. Matching dog to owner. Touch-and-go.” She beams. “But an absolutely awesome experience.” Gail’s favourite word ‘awesome’. “My dog ‘Key’ is awesome, a beautiful animal he’s trained as a medical alert dog.” Gail had trained, loved and nurtured ‘Key’ to reach his full potential. Gail has returned and settled back into her training here on the Algarve at The Alldog Training Centre. She’ll be Gglad to hear from you just to swap information or get details on how she can be of assistance to you and your four-legged pal.
The Animal Rescue Algarve Shelter ARA’s CIC, Sid Richardson and his General Manager João Ferreira’s special bond with APAA’s President, Jenny Clarke, and ‘Pop-Up’ Shop Manager Anita Wight is the keyword, ‘Legacy’. “Coincidence?” Jenny grins. “No. We believe things happen because they’re meant to.” The tie being the same deep feeling for animals. Apart from looking after ARA’s four-pawed-furry-friends. João has several of his own animals, mostly very traumatised and missing a limb or two. Anita had seven of her own canines. Jenny two dogs and two cats. (The numbers and names sometimes change).
Responsibility of ‘ownership’ fell hard, dealing with APAA members, passing away and leaving their loved-ones behind. Having been rescued, re-homed, and once again homeless. Re-traumatised. “Of course the first thing we think about are humans.” Loved-ones? “But no. Wait a minute, we are definitely talking animals here.” Anita is in full agreement. “We don’t own these wonderful animals, they are indeed gifts.” Sid, who has his own private menagerie, agrees. “In practice, if we have an expensive necklace, or watch or vehicle, we insure it. If it’s that important. The loss of this valuable item would be a tragedy.”
This thought, permeates into a huge ‘What IF!?’ We get ill, die, can no longer care for our loved-ones. Yes, the four-legged type. ARA & APAA have reached out to all corners of the Algarve and have attracted many people who have now taken out a ‘Legacy for Pets’. Anita was volunteered the unenviable role of ‘Ambassador for Legacy’. “I felt so strongly about this issue, that I couldn’t refuse the task. I am only too pleased to be able to carry the message forward in any way I can.” Mostly associated with ‘Pop-Up’ shops, she will now be turning your attention from boodles and bangles and things, to more treasured items. “Your pets!” Anita cuddles a stuffed droopy-dawg. “Legacy is a simple, effective, personalised programme just for you. Complete a simple form, nominating a guardian for your pets, and ARA will take care of them, and their re-homing when you are gone. No time like the present.”
Reminder:
Ferragudo Car-boot sales every 2nd Sunday of the month 8-12. Weather permitting!
‘Pop-Up’ Stall Convento’bio Lagoa, Friday, May 16. APAA stall hand-made jewellery, gifts and goodies. Charity shops at Alvor and Silves. Pop-In and buy. Clothing. Bedding. Books. Jewellery. Gifts. Take in your unwanted presents, house-hold items especially man-cave stuff.
Emporium Charity Sale Facebook 19/04-26/04. Jackie’s Cookies, Jenny’s Jams, Pickles, Marmalades: ‘Pop-Up’ and Charity shops. Not Car-boot sales.
Contacts: info.apaaportugal@gmail.com
Legacy : info@animalrescuealgarve.com
Gail : keyawesomedogs@gmail.com
https://www.awesome-dogs.com/trainer/gail-skinner
Emporium https://www.facebook.com/groups/594035701307971
By APAA
