Shooting Gazette

Demonstration Testimonials

At the end of our demonstration yesterday in one of the largest arenas and in front of one of the biggest crowds we have ever seen (17,000), I was stopped by many people including by Lisa Tonks, a professional dog trainer based in Ringwood who runs "Paws4Reward". Lisa was kind enough to write to me after the show:

"How refreshing to watch a Gun Dog demonstration using reward based training, a clicker and treats. This showed how gun dogs can really enjoy not only working, they are also capable and enjoy preforming fun tricks.

It was obvious to all that Stephen loves working with his dogs and his dogs relish working with him.

The demonstration was full of great training tips and advise, for all dog owners and not just for Gun Dogs.

I hope many of my clients were watching. I certainly learnt new things today.

Lisa Tonks
Dog Trainer, Ringwood
lisa@paws4reward.co.uk
http://lisatonks.vpweb.co.uk/default.html
07967 640533

APDT 001152

I was also approached by Mr & Mrs Conlan. Mr Conlan, an ex VC10 pilot in the RAF, said that he had not wanted to come to the show but had been persuaded to do so by his wife. He said he had seen "hundreds" of Gundog demonstrations in the past and had said to his wife "Here we go again!" when it was our turn. But he said he was so pleased he had been persuaded to come along as this was the best and most entertaining show he had ever seen. He promised to write a testimonial and, true to his word, I received this email the next morning:

Dear Mr Harrison,

The high point of the Ellingham Show yesterday for both my wife and me was your demonstration. It was a delight to see the rapport you have with your dogs and their obvious enjoyment of the whole display. I suspect many of the attending dog owners watched with envy.

We look forward very much to seeing you and your team at future events.

Thank you once again.

Tom Conlon

And then, out of the blue, I received this from Christine Pomroy in Bransgore:

"At the Ellingham Show we were delighted to watch your gundog display. Your two dogs, Poppy and Daisy, were a credit to your training regime and entertained the audience with their routines and tricks. It was the best dog display that we have ever seen!"

9 August 2014 - Ellingham & Ringwood Show

"After watching your gundog training display at the Wessex Country Fair on 16th August, I feel I must offer my congratulations. Your wonderfully sympathetic and compassionate approach to the training of both Daisy and Poppy with remarkable results, has my total admiration. It was wonderful to watch, you had us spellbound. Your 'unconventional' method just seems so natural and I can only hope that future dog owners take note and follow your teaching, I most certainly will. Thank you."

Jackie Ward, Wilton

A great demonstration at the Wessex Country Fair on 16 August. Wonderful to see Stephen, Daisy and Poppy in action, certainly the highlight of the day combining information, skill and great humour. My partner, Jenny, has fallen in love with Poppy.

Tony Chalcroft, Upavon

16 August 2014 - Wessex Country Fair

"Superb! I can honestly say that this was the most entertaining thing I have ever witnessed! You had the whole crowd, old and young, transfixed!"
Pam Kent, Chitterne

2 August 2014 - Jack's Jamboree Fundraiser, Codford

Steve put on a very entertaining and informative display recently at the Ellingham & Ringwood Show. All aspects of dog training were demonstrated, from the very first actions with your brand new puppy to the high levels of training expected of more experienced dogs that are ready to go into the shooting field. Added to these elements were some of Steve's special tricks showing that dog training can be fun. The crowd around us certainly enjoyed watching the display as much as we did; there was something for every person at the show ground to enjoy.

If you are ever able to watch one of Steve's displays we would highly recommend you do so; it's guaranteed that you will enjoy it and there are always plenty of tips and advice to take home with you. It will certainly be different to any other display you are ever likely to see.

Matt & Martine Blake.

8 August 2015 - Ellingham & Ringwood Show

Warminster Journal

Friday 13 Sep 2013

"Highlight of the day was Stephen Harrison's demonstration of dog training methods, gundog skills and tricks - with the help of Springer Spaniel Poppy and Labrador puppy Daisy.

He showed basic dog training techniques and also how gundogs hunt and retrieve.

The most popular part of the 30 minute show was a fun display of tricks by Poppy worthy of Britain's Got Talent's Pudsey. She balanced a sausage on her nose, danced, walked backwards, walked on Stephen's toes, did meerkat impressions, saluted and won everyone's heart".

Warminster Carnival 2013