In the year 2016/17 we rehomed 26 Kerry Blue Terriers.
Below are some of their wonderful stories and also included below are downloadable PDF reports from the KBTR's Director and Treasurer.
Below are some of their wonderful stories and also included below are downloadable PDF reports from the KBTR's Director and Treasurer.
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Pamela - September 2017
Nell came in to rescue after being found as a stray and was lovingly rehomed by Pamela in South Wales.
Nell came in to rescue after being found as a stray and was lovingly rehomed by Pamela in South Wales.
Elaine - September 2017
An update will appear here once Pegs has had time to settle into her new home
Pegs was surrendered to the rescue by her owner for behavioural reasons and was lovingly rehomed by Elaine in the East of England.
An update will appear here once Pegs has had time to settle into her new home
Pegs was surrendered to the rescue by her owner for behavioural reasons and was lovingly rehomed by Elaine in the East of England.
Hannah - August 2017
Max was surrendered to the rescue after his owner sadly passed away and was lovingly rehomed by Hannah in the West Midlands.
Max was surrendered to the rescue after his owner sadly passed away and was lovingly rehomed by Hannah in the West Midlands.
Alex - August 2017
Flynn was surrendered to the rescue by his owner for behavioural reasons and was lovingly rehomed by Alex and his family in Northern Ireland.
Flynn was surrendered to the rescue by his owner for behavioural reasons and was lovingly rehomed by Alex and his family in Northern Ireland.
Whet - August 2017
Chrystal was surrendered to the rescue by her owner sue to a change in their circumstances and was lovingly rehomed by Whet and his family in Scotland.
Chrystal was surrendered to the rescue by her owner sue to a change in their circumstances and was lovingly rehomed by Whet and his family in Scotland.
Judith - June 2017
Misty was surrendered to the rescue by her owner for behavioural reasons and was lovingly rehomed by Judith in the East Midlands.
Misty was surrendered to the rescue by her owner for behavioural reasons and was lovingly rehomed by Judith in the East Midlands.
Maura - June 2016
My mum tells me you would like to know how I'm getting on?
Well in the picture they have just taken they have just woken me, and I'm chilling after a visit from dad's grandson who runs us all ragged for a couple of hours.
Apart from that I have a great time at home chasing the birds from the garden when there not looking and sniffing out the various mouse holes around the pond....did I mention the pond? It's great for a drink any time of day "don't drink from the bowl you know"
All week dad takes me and Henri to work, we still love it, it keeps us busy and we get a great walk after to say thanks for looking after things for him.
The fields around here are wicked and I can't remembwr the last time dad had me on a lead, "great isnt it" I do worry him sometime as he thinks he's lost me but I know where he is, I'm just messing with him.
Anyway don't worry about me I'm fine, just keep doing a great job rescuing more Kerry's and finding them great homes,
Until the next time,
Tarah.
My mum tells me you would like to know how I'm getting on?
Well in the picture they have just taken they have just woken me, and I'm chilling after a visit from dad's grandson who runs us all ragged for a couple of hours.
Apart from that I have a great time at home chasing the birds from the garden when there not looking and sniffing out the various mouse holes around the pond....did I mention the pond? It's great for a drink any time of day "don't drink from the bowl you know"
All week dad takes me and Henri to work, we still love it, it keeps us busy and we get a great walk after to say thanks for looking after things for him.
The fields around here are wicked and I can't remembwr the last time dad had me on a lead, "great isnt it" I do worry him sometime as he thinks he's lost me but I know where he is, I'm just messing with him.
Anyway don't worry about me I'm fine, just keep doing a great job rescuing more Kerry's and finding them great homes,
Until the next time,
Tarah.
Lesley - June 2016
We got our first Kerry Blue by accident. I wasn’t a dog person, so had resisted the family’s calls, until one day my eldest daughter said one of her school friend’s family was rehoming Murphy. They persuaded me to go have a look, and that afternoon he was in our house.
We decided a few years ago to get him a wee friend, and travelled to Northern Ireland to a breeder and came home with wee Maisie Blue – I was truly in love! After having her only 10 days, we discovered she was really ill, She died a day before she would have been five months old and we were distraught. We’d nursed her day and night, but it just wasn’t to be.
One night I was feeling particularly low and I came across the (Kerry Blue) Rescue Facebook page and asked to join. I saw a post about dogs that had passed that year and I put up a simple comment about Maisie. The responses made me cry – but more importantly led to several friendships including the lovely Gayle Don, who asked if I would consider adopting. We talked about it as a family and decided that if the right dog came along we would, never thinking it would happen.
When a picture of Luna and Misty, two 10 month old sisters was posted, I knew this was it. Luckily the rescue paired us with Luna and we travelled to Eastbourne to pick her up – a round trip of 24 hours straight driving.
We fostered at first – a rescue rule to make sure that everyone, including Luna was happy. It’s certainly not been plain sailing. Little did we know how unlike a kerry Murphy is. Yes, he can be stubborn, but doesn’t have the mischievous, ‘I’m in charge’ personality that we discovered in Luna. If she didn’t get her own way she got really aggressive, but I was open with the rescue team and they offered support, strategies and an ear when needed. It’s been hard work – she needs really strong boundaries – and thinks she’s the Boss, but she’s learning. We can’t afford to give her an inch or anything that can be shredded will be.
From the time we decided to take her as a foster, we considered her a part of the family, warts and all. So adoption was inevitable. The fostering co-ordinator asked me outright, would you consider rejecting her? Nah, she’s one of our family. I haven’t sent my kids back (and that’s saying something), so why would I do it with Luna?
Murphy just tries to keep out of her way when she starts – he’s been at the receiving end of her tantrums a few times – but he loves to play tug of war with her, because he always wins. We still cannot let her off the lead, not even in the garden as she will find some way to escape. And as for other dogs, well let’s just say she’s a tad fussy…
The rescue has been fabulous and we’ll forever be grateful and we’ll do our very best Mark, Gayle and the rest of you, to make you proud!
We got our first Kerry Blue by accident. I wasn’t a dog person, so had resisted the family’s calls, until one day my eldest daughter said one of her school friend’s family was rehoming Murphy. They persuaded me to go have a look, and that afternoon he was in our house.
We decided a few years ago to get him a wee friend, and travelled to Northern Ireland to a breeder and came home with wee Maisie Blue – I was truly in love! After having her only 10 days, we discovered she was really ill, She died a day before she would have been five months old and we were distraught. We’d nursed her day and night, but it just wasn’t to be.
One night I was feeling particularly low and I came across the (Kerry Blue) Rescue Facebook page and asked to join. I saw a post about dogs that had passed that year and I put up a simple comment about Maisie. The responses made me cry – but more importantly led to several friendships including the lovely Gayle Don, who asked if I would consider adopting. We talked about it as a family and decided that if the right dog came along we would, never thinking it would happen.
When a picture of Luna and Misty, two 10 month old sisters was posted, I knew this was it. Luckily the rescue paired us with Luna and we travelled to Eastbourne to pick her up – a round trip of 24 hours straight driving.
We fostered at first – a rescue rule to make sure that everyone, including Luna was happy. It’s certainly not been plain sailing. Little did we know how unlike a kerry Murphy is. Yes, he can be stubborn, but doesn’t have the mischievous, ‘I’m in charge’ personality that we discovered in Luna. If she didn’t get her own way she got really aggressive, but I was open with the rescue team and they offered support, strategies and an ear when needed. It’s been hard work – she needs really strong boundaries – and thinks she’s the Boss, but she’s learning. We can’t afford to give her an inch or anything that can be shredded will be.
From the time we decided to take her as a foster, we considered her a part of the family, warts and all. So adoption was inevitable. The fostering co-ordinator asked me outright, would you consider rejecting her? Nah, she’s one of our family. I haven’t sent my kids back (and that’s saying something), so why would I do it with Luna?
Murphy just tries to keep out of her way when she starts – he’s been at the receiving end of her tantrums a few times – but he loves to play tug of war with her, because he always wins. We still cannot let her off the lead, not even in the garden as she will find some way to escape. And as for other dogs, well let’s just say she’s a tad fussy…
The rescue has been fabulous and we’ll forever be grateful and we’ll do our very best Mark, Gayle and the rest of you, to make you proud!
Carly-Jayne - May 2017
Meet Ben (AKA Ben the Barbarian!) our lovely rescue Kerry.
We lost our beloved Billie in February to kidney failure earlier this year and felt our other Kerry - Vera - would be lonely without a companion.
We particularly wanted an older Kerry who would be a little calmer because Vera likes a quiet life, we contacted the KBTR after seeing him on the website and falling in love with him and after a successful meet and greet we arranged to collect him in May 2017.
Ben is a lively boy who loves to play with a ball or his tug toy and will repeatedly bash you with whichever toy he wants to play with until you relent and join in his game.
Ben may be nearly 10 but he's certainly not showing any signs of slowing down!
He is a cheeky boy who loves to chew and frequently makes off with my hair donuts and has destroyed more than one stuffed toy since moving in with us (I still keep finding fluff everywhere!) Ben is best of friends with Alex his (Human) playmate and follows him all over the house.
Meet Ben (AKA Ben the Barbarian!) our lovely rescue Kerry.
We lost our beloved Billie in February to kidney failure earlier this year and felt our other Kerry - Vera - would be lonely without a companion.
We particularly wanted an older Kerry who would be a little calmer because Vera likes a quiet life, we contacted the KBTR after seeing him on the website and falling in love with him and after a successful meet and greet we arranged to collect him in May 2017.
Ben is a lively boy who loves to play with a ball or his tug toy and will repeatedly bash you with whichever toy he wants to play with until you relent and join in his game.
Ben may be nearly 10 but he's certainly not showing any signs of slowing down!
He is a cheeky boy who loves to chew and frequently makes off with my hair donuts and has destroyed more than one stuffed toy since moving in with us (I still keep finding fluff everywhere!) Ben is best of friends with Alex his (Human) playmate and follows him all over the house.
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Christine - May 2017
Stanley was surrendered to the rescue by his owner due to behavioural issues and was lovingly rehomed by Christine in the South of England.
Stanley was surrendered to the rescue by his owner due to behavioural issues and was lovingly rehomed by Christine in the South of England.
Fiona - May 2017
What a year it has been! (June 2018)
On the 18th of May 2017 we were awoken very early in the morning by the arrival of Christine and her sister, who had driven overnight, from Liverpool to Elgin in the North East of Scotland. Christine loved her boy Judah so much she wanted to see personally where he was going to be living in his new, forever home. It was very hard for her to leave him and I reassured her that we would remain in contact, exchanging photos and stories of how Judah was progressing.
He came to us and took over our lives, as kerries are prone to do. He made friends with the butcher and pet shop owner pretty quickly, although the local dogs took a little longer and the postie not at all. He is still selective with other dogs but we have strategies in place to avoid conflict as much as possible, and he has accepted quite a few as firm friends, none more so that his standard poodle pal Doncha!
He has been to the Humber Bridge walk last year where all the dogs behaved impeccably, he holidayed with us in a camper van, took ferries, stuck his head out of windows and generally had a fantastic time.
He tried to climb the Christmas tree, ripped open the contents of his stocking, and has been royally spoiled every day he has been with us. He receives multiple long walks everyday, from park to beach to forests and loves nothing more than to chase and sniff. After a busy day working with me he likes nothing better than to snuggle up on his cushion until its time to crawl into bed.
In just a few days he will have been with us a whole year! Another milestone to celebrate. He makes life more fun, he makes me get out and walk, and he makes our day, every day. We can't thank Christine and all at the the KBTR enough for choosing us as Judah's forever home. He is as loved as ever.
Fiona & Calum
What a year it has been! (June 2018)
On the 18th of May 2017 we were awoken very early in the morning by the arrival of Christine and her sister, who had driven overnight, from Liverpool to Elgin in the North East of Scotland. Christine loved her boy Judah so much she wanted to see personally where he was going to be living in his new, forever home. It was very hard for her to leave him and I reassured her that we would remain in contact, exchanging photos and stories of how Judah was progressing.
He came to us and took over our lives, as kerries are prone to do. He made friends with the butcher and pet shop owner pretty quickly, although the local dogs took a little longer and the postie not at all. He is still selective with other dogs but we have strategies in place to avoid conflict as much as possible, and he has accepted quite a few as firm friends, none more so that his standard poodle pal Doncha!
He has been to the Humber Bridge walk last year where all the dogs behaved impeccably, he holidayed with us in a camper van, took ferries, stuck his head out of windows and generally had a fantastic time.
He tried to climb the Christmas tree, ripped open the contents of his stocking, and has been royally spoiled every day he has been with us. He receives multiple long walks everyday, from park to beach to forests and loves nothing more than to chase and sniff. After a busy day working with me he likes nothing better than to snuggle up on his cushion until its time to crawl into bed.
In just a few days he will have been with us a whole year! Another milestone to celebrate. He makes life more fun, he makes me get out and walk, and he makes our day, every day. We can't thank Christine and all at the the KBTR enough for choosing us as Judah's forever home. He is as loved as ever.
Fiona & Calum
Emma - May 2017
Brody was surrendered to the rescue by his owner for behavioural reasons and was lovingly rehomed by Emma in Tyne & Wear.
Brody was surrendered to the rescue by his owner for behavioural reasons and was lovingly rehomed by Emma in Tyne & Wear.
Irene - April 2017
Having previously had a Kerry Blue rescue we decided that rehoming another Kerry was something we wanted to do.
I spoke to Mark Buckley from the Kerry Blue Rescue (KBTR) who was fantastic and spent a lot of time discussing with me all of the dogs and our options. He just seemed to know that Floyd was the perfect Kerry for us. I was really pleased to find out that KBTR arranged all the transport from England to Ireland, it was amazing.
I then met Vivien, Fostering Co-ordinator, who was brilliant. She did a home check with me to ensure we would be suitable. Vivien also came to meet Floyd when he arrived in N. Ireland which was great because we were unsure what to expect as he had been travelling a long journey.
All of KBTR have been great, Judy is the Aftercare Co-ordinator and she has contacted us to make sure everything is going well. It is good to know that we will always have their support.
WELL WHAT CAN I SAY ABOUT FLOYD
We met this energetic boy who was gorgeous and just full of love. He settled so well with us and is such a good boy.
We were a bit unsure if he would get on with our cat so we had Floyd initially as foster with a view to adopting and after some work both Floyd and the cat are getting along which is fantastic. We can now let Floyd off the lead in the gardens and he can just run and run ( he tries to eat the cat food and the cat tries to eat his which obviously we don't allow but it is very funny)
Floyd still needs some more socialising with other dogs which we will continue to do. We have visited Beechgrove doggy park - for one to one play which Floyd loved.
Floyd loves his cuddles and hugs, is great with everyone including children and he doesn't mind getting brushed !!!. He is totally spoiled by everyone.
Mark was most definitely right as Floyd is the perfect boy for us, we all love him so much and it feels like he has been with us forever.
Having previously had a Kerry Blue rescue we decided that rehoming another Kerry was something we wanted to do.
I spoke to Mark Buckley from the Kerry Blue Rescue (KBTR) who was fantastic and spent a lot of time discussing with me all of the dogs and our options. He just seemed to know that Floyd was the perfect Kerry for us. I was really pleased to find out that KBTR arranged all the transport from England to Ireland, it was amazing.
I then met Vivien, Fostering Co-ordinator, who was brilliant. She did a home check with me to ensure we would be suitable. Vivien also came to meet Floyd when he arrived in N. Ireland which was great because we were unsure what to expect as he had been travelling a long journey.
All of KBTR have been great, Judy is the Aftercare Co-ordinator and she has contacted us to make sure everything is going well. It is good to know that we will always have their support.
WELL WHAT CAN I SAY ABOUT FLOYD
We met this energetic boy who was gorgeous and just full of love. He settled so well with us and is such a good boy.
We were a bit unsure if he would get on with our cat so we had Floyd initially as foster with a view to adopting and after some work both Floyd and the cat are getting along which is fantastic. We can now let Floyd off the lead in the gardens and he can just run and run ( he tries to eat the cat food and the cat tries to eat his which obviously we don't allow but it is very funny)
Floyd still needs some more socialising with other dogs which we will continue to do. We have visited Beechgrove doggy park - for one to one play which Floyd loved.
Floyd loves his cuddles and hugs, is great with everyone including children and he doesn't mind getting brushed !!!. He is totally spoiled by everyone.
Mark was most definitely right as Floyd is the perfect boy for us, we all love him so much and it feels like he has been with us forever.
The Lotteys- April 2017
Both Emma and myself have wanted a dog for a number of years, but while we were both working full time it just wasn’t an option. I grew up with blue merle border collies and I want my kids to have the same opportunity, to learn about caring, responsibility, and the sheer joy of owning a dog. Of course there are harsher life lessons too, while never easy, it’s just as much as part of life. It’s important they aren’t hidden away from it and can learn from the experience. My kids are both relatively young, Isla being 5 and Ted 3.
Recently my wife gave up her work to set up her own business from home. With someone going to be in the house most of the day, it seemed like the ideal time to go ahead and look at getting a dog. At this point I knew very little about Kerry Blues, and I wasn’t sure what breed to go for. We had a look on some of the bigger rescue sites, but with the age of our kids I knew many would rule us out straight away. I know there are risks with young children, but I’ve always believed that if you get the preparation right, those risks can be minimised and the benefits far outweigh them. I found a very handy little app on the Kennel Club website which asked a series of questions about you, your home and what sort of dog – size, hair type, amount of exercise, allergies etc. It then came up with a number of breed options, and the one that stood out was the Kerry Blue.
Initially it was the look of the breed, I hadn’t seen one before and was just gobsmacked at how stunning they were! As I read more on the internet, it soon became clear that this could be a perfect fit for our family. I read about potential issues with other dogs, but I’m used to walking my brother’s Siberian Huskies and I was sure we could deal with that. For me, the main point was that they sounded brilliant with kids, I read article after article and this was a repeating story.
We talked about getting a puppy, but we have both had other rescue animals in the past and decided that’s the route we would choose. I wasn’t sure where to look, but quickly found a link to the KBT Rescue on the UK KBT Association page and had a look at the dogs for adoption. Something just clicked when I read about Kerry and saw the pictures, so I got in touch with Mark. I was immediately struck by Mark’s passion for the breed and for the care he takes in selecting homes. We had a few conversations by email and by phone and I completed the rehoming questionnaire. Very soon we had a home visit booked and the kids were eagerly waiting to see Neil Archer with Hugo, though I must include myself as I’m a big kid ☺ Hugo was a real star and my kids were in love straight away. They just let him wander round the house and come and see them. Neil went through the thorough home check with me and Emma and it was good that the kids just got on with things. Thanks so much to Neil for coming over and taking the time for the visit. Ted was really upset when they left, he had really taking to Hugo in a big way.
We were thrilled when we got the call from Mark and he told us that we had been chosen for Kerry!! We had been stressing to the kids that it may not happen and it could be a long search, so to get Kerry was just amazing. Something that had been a wish for the last 10 years and about to become true. Emma and the kids immediately began to buy things, the kids chose a bed and some toys for Kerry. There were some small delays in getting dates arranged, 21 days for the rabies jabs and then issues with the paperwork and microchip, however Mark worked tirelessly to get things sorted and soon we had the call and Kerry was on her way!
When I told people I was picking Kerry up from a dog van on the motorway services it drew some quizzical looks, but the process ran like clockwork and soon we saw Kerry for the first time. She was on the top floor in the van, barking away. The guy delivering her did not fill us full of confidence when he said “Your here for the Kerry….good luck, she never f*cking shuts up!!”. So with a little trepidation we sorted things out with Aiden and then he got Kerry down for us.
We were surprised at how petite she was for a Kerry, but she was just so full of character and life that it just felt right straight away. She was so pleased to see us, although it help we had a few treats. Neither my wife nor I could believe how perfect she was and we were both beaming from ear to ear ☺
We took her for a stroll in the grass around the services and it soon became clear she had been well looked after. She went well on the lead and immediately looked alert. She did all the basics well and you could see the joy on her face at being out and about again. After 20 minutes we went back to the car and she curled up next to my wife on the back seat and was no bother on the drive home. Another big plus as she was fine in the car.
The timings worked well as Kerry had a few hours at home before the kids were home, so she could get her bearings. Poor thing was tired after the journey so she just curled up on the sofa with Emma. The kids were good as gold, they were excited but allowed Kerry some space to come to them and she took it all in her stride. Within hours it felt like she had been with us forever. We had no accidents or crying on the first night, it was like she just walked in and set up home.
Over the past few weeks Kerry has brought so much joy into our family. She is always so pleased to see us, the kids love that she wags her little tail so fast for them. They play tug of war with her and she is just so tolerant of them “stroking” and playing with her. We’ve walked more miles in the last few weeks than probably most of the rest of the year combined, and its now easy to get the kids to come along. We’ve found places within walking distance of the house that are so beautiful, but we would have probably not seen them without her. Kerry’s favourite walk is in the woods, she leaps about looking for squirrels and rabbits, running rings round us as she goes.
Judy has been regularly in touch, making sure things were OK and generally having a natter. While it’s been very smooth going It is a great comfort to know we can call on her experience. Judy has been really useful with the only slight issue. We knew as a rule the breed could be troublesome with other dogs, and initially Kerry would bark and leap up at every dog we saw. With Judy’s advice she is now responding well to positive enforcement. She does have off days like anyone else, but we are always able to get her attention and there haven’t been any serious issues. I’ve probably found this easier than Emma. We had one more scary incident when my wife was taking Kerry out, where things got a bit more aggressive but neither dog was hurt. This left Emma a bit shaken. Again we had Judy’s experience to call upon and she recommended a Halti harness. We’ve now started using a halti when we know there are lots of other dogs around and that is working well, especially for Emma. I’m positive that this will improve, but even if it doesn’t, it doesn’t take anything away from Kerry, and it doesn’t spoil our walks. Its all part of her make-up, that makes her the character she is, our beautiful Kerry.
So 5 weeks ago our lives changed at Ferrybridge services and I don’t think it will ever be the same. Our family has grown and Kerry is now such a part of that, we couldn’t imagine life without her. I do believe things happen for a reason, and that this could not have gone any better. Kerry is just the perfect fit for us and we are so lucky to have her. We are all looking forward to a long and happy life together
Both Emma and myself have wanted a dog for a number of years, but while we were both working full time it just wasn’t an option. I grew up with blue merle border collies and I want my kids to have the same opportunity, to learn about caring, responsibility, and the sheer joy of owning a dog. Of course there are harsher life lessons too, while never easy, it’s just as much as part of life. It’s important they aren’t hidden away from it and can learn from the experience. My kids are both relatively young, Isla being 5 and Ted 3.
Recently my wife gave up her work to set up her own business from home. With someone going to be in the house most of the day, it seemed like the ideal time to go ahead and look at getting a dog. At this point I knew very little about Kerry Blues, and I wasn’t sure what breed to go for. We had a look on some of the bigger rescue sites, but with the age of our kids I knew many would rule us out straight away. I know there are risks with young children, but I’ve always believed that if you get the preparation right, those risks can be minimised and the benefits far outweigh them. I found a very handy little app on the Kennel Club website which asked a series of questions about you, your home and what sort of dog – size, hair type, amount of exercise, allergies etc. It then came up with a number of breed options, and the one that stood out was the Kerry Blue.
Initially it was the look of the breed, I hadn’t seen one before and was just gobsmacked at how stunning they were! As I read more on the internet, it soon became clear that this could be a perfect fit for our family. I read about potential issues with other dogs, but I’m used to walking my brother’s Siberian Huskies and I was sure we could deal with that. For me, the main point was that they sounded brilliant with kids, I read article after article and this was a repeating story.
We talked about getting a puppy, but we have both had other rescue animals in the past and decided that’s the route we would choose. I wasn’t sure where to look, but quickly found a link to the KBT Rescue on the UK KBT Association page and had a look at the dogs for adoption. Something just clicked when I read about Kerry and saw the pictures, so I got in touch with Mark. I was immediately struck by Mark’s passion for the breed and for the care he takes in selecting homes. We had a few conversations by email and by phone and I completed the rehoming questionnaire. Very soon we had a home visit booked and the kids were eagerly waiting to see Neil Archer with Hugo, though I must include myself as I’m a big kid ☺ Hugo was a real star and my kids were in love straight away. They just let him wander round the house and come and see them. Neil went through the thorough home check with me and Emma and it was good that the kids just got on with things. Thanks so much to Neil for coming over and taking the time for the visit. Ted was really upset when they left, he had really taking to Hugo in a big way.
We were thrilled when we got the call from Mark and he told us that we had been chosen for Kerry!! We had been stressing to the kids that it may not happen and it could be a long search, so to get Kerry was just amazing. Something that had been a wish for the last 10 years and about to become true. Emma and the kids immediately began to buy things, the kids chose a bed and some toys for Kerry. There were some small delays in getting dates arranged, 21 days for the rabies jabs and then issues with the paperwork and microchip, however Mark worked tirelessly to get things sorted and soon we had the call and Kerry was on her way!
When I told people I was picking Kerry up from a dog van on the motorway services it drew some quizzical looks, but the process ran like clockwork and soon we saw Kerry for the first time. She was on the top floor in the van, barking away. The guy delivering her did not fill us full of confidence when he said “Your here for the Kerry….good luck, she never f*cking shuts up!!”. So with a little trepidation we sorted things out with Aiden and then he got Kerry down for us.
We were surprised at how petite she was for a Kerry, but she was just so full of character and life that it just felt right straight away. She was so pleased to see us, although it help we had a few treats. Neither my wife nor I could believe how perfect she was and we were both beaming from ear to ear ☺
We took her for a stroll in the grass around the services and it soon became clear she had been well looked after. She went well on the lead and immediately looked alert. She did all the basics well and you could see the joy on her face at being out and about again. After 20 minutes we went back to the car and she curled up next to my wife on the back seat and was no bother on the drive home. Another big plus as she was fine in the car.
The timings worked well as Kerry had a few hours at home before the kids were home, so she could get her bearings. Poor thing was tired after the journey so she just curled up on the sofa with Emma. The kids were good as gold, they were excited but allowed Kerry some space to come to them and she took it all in her stride. Within hours it felt like she had been with us forever. We had no accidents or crying on the first night, it was like she just walked in and set up home.
Over the past few weeks Kerry has brought so much joy into our family. She is always so pleased to see us, the kids love that she wags her little tail so fast for them. They play tug of war with her and she is just so tolerant of them “stroking” and playing with her. We’ve walked more miles in the last few weeks than probably most of the rest of the year combined, and its now easy to get the kids to come along. We’ve found places within walking distance of the house that are so beautiful, but we would have probably not seen them without her. Kerry’s favourite walk is in the woods, she leaps about looking for squirrels and rabbits, running rings round us as she goes.
Judy has been regularly in touch, making sure things were OK and generally having a natter. While it’s been very smooth going It is a great comfort to know we can call on her experience. Judy has been really useful with the only slight issue. We knew as a rule the breed could be troublesome with other dogs, and initially Kerry would bark and leap up at every dog we saw. With Judy’s advice she is now responding well to positive enforcement. She does have off days like anyone else, but we are always able to get her attention and there haven’t been any serious issues. I’ve probably found this easier than Emma. We had one more scary incident when my wife was taking Kerry out, where things got a bit more aggressive but neither dog was hurt. This left Emma a bit shaken. Again we had Judy’s experience to call upon and she recommended a Halti harness. We’ve now started using a halti when we know there are lots of other dogs around and that is working well, especially for Emma. I’m positive that this will improve, but even if it doesn’t, it doesn’t take anything away from Kerry, and it doesn’t spoil our walks. Its all part of her make-up, that makes her the character she is, our beautiful Kerry.
So 5 weeks ago our lives changed at Ferrybridge services and I don’t think it will ever be the same. Our family has grown and Kerry is now such a part of that, we couldn’t imagine life without her. I do believe things happen for a reason, and that this could not have gone any better. Kerry is just the perfect fit for us and we are so lucky to have her. We are all looking forward to a long and happy life together
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Gayle Don - April 2017 (Update October 2018)
Well there is no short way to tell this story. Danny is my life changing dog, he has taught me so much, been on a journey with me and together we have met so many wonderful people...he is the dog that brought me to the Rescue.
I used to be too embarrassed to share this but I think it may help those who are struggling with their dogs. I first met Danny when he was 10 months old, before I had anything to do with the Rescue, he was for sale on Gumtree...a show dog who was never going to make the grade. I already had Ruby who was a beautifully natured Kerry and after they were introduced and got on I took him home. Despite being a dog owner my whole life I was not prepared for this...the dog reactivity was horrendous and on our second day out on a walk he grabbed a Jack Russell dog and the fight to get him to let go was a struggle..it really shook me and I had no idea how to deal with it. I bought a muzzle and the following day we were back out and he was pulling and jumping so hard at a dog he saw he manged to free the trigger on his leash and break free and well all I can say is thank goodness for the muzzle.
At this point in time I had 2 very young children, one with additional needs and my husband was working all the hours under the sun 7 days a week so I am completely ashamed to say we took Danny back to his original owner....a decision I immediately regretted. I couldn’t stop thinking about him and kept an eye out and saw him for sale again some 6 months later again on Gumtree. I contacted the lady and confirmed it was him, she said it was due to aggression towards other dogs and I begged her to get in touch with the Rescue and in fact, I did it for her and Mark contacted her, offered to help but unfortunately she declined. In the meantime as a family we had got Darcy our second Kerry and I had become more involved with the Rescue and became part of the team.
Last April I got a call, there was a dog at the Cat and Dog home in Glasgow to be surrendered and if it had nowhere to go it was to be put to sleep....it was Danny. I dropped everything and ran and got him, I was told he was extremely aggressive to other animals and some people. He hadn’t been groomed in a long time and had no current vaccinations...what was I going to do with him? I couldn’t take him home...I had 2 dogs and kids so a wonderful man who used to breed Kerries and had kennels stepped in and took him until we got him sorted....Whet has since helped with many of our rescue Kerries. I was desperate to keep him as my own dog, I could not let him go again so after introducing him to my girls without incident he came to our house and was fine. We took lots of care to ensure everything was safe and it was clear we had a lot of work to do...he couldn’t even be in the same street as another dog. I started to research, to learn, to watch videos, read and engage with a dog trainer I knew could help me. It’s been a hard road with plenty of ups and downs and we are still travelling but now we walk daily along the local canal towpath calmly and without incident, we go on pack walks with lots of other dogs and enjoy them.
He is such a loving dog and makes us laugh all the time...he is a total man in comparison with the girls who are very ladylike. He farts loudly and then turns round to look, he drinks from the toilet if the lid is left up and he is always up for a cuddle. This makes it all worthwhile. Taking on a rescue dog with issues is a huge commitment but the rewards more than make it worthwhile...I will say this quietly in case Ruby or Darcy are listening...but Danny is the favourite in the house...with us all.
Well there is no short way to tell this story. Danny is my life changing dog, he has taught me so much, been on a journey with me and together we have met so many wonderful people...he is the dog that brought me to the Rescue.
I used to be too embarrassed to share this but I think it may help those who are struggling with their dogs. I first met Danny when he was 10 months old, before I had anything to do with the Rescue, he was for sale on Gumtree...a show dog who was never going to make the grade. I already had Ruby who was a beautifully natured Kerry and after they were introduced and got on I took him home. Despite being a dog owner my whole life I was not prepared for this...the dog reactivity was horrendous and on our second day out on a walk he grabbed a Jack Russell dog and the fight to get him to let go was a struggle..it really shook me and I had no idea how to deal with it. I bought a muzzle and the following day we were back out and he was pulling and jumping so hard at a dog he saw he manged to free the trigger on his leash and break free and well all I can say is thank goodness for the muzzle.
At this point in time I had 2 very young children, one with additional needs and my husband was working all the hours under the sun 7 days a week so I am completely ashamed to say we took Danny back to his original owner....a decision I immediately regretted. I couldn’t stop thinking about him and kept an eye out and saw him for sale again some 6 months later again on Gumtree. I contacted the lady and confirmed it was him, she said it was due to aggression towards other dogs and I begged her to get in touch with the Rescue and in fact, I did it for her and Mark contacted her, offered to help but unfortunately she declined. In the meantime as a family we had got Darcy our second Kerry and I had become more involved with the Rescue and became part of the team.
Last April I got a call, there was a dog at the Cat and Dog home in Glasgow to be surrendered and if it had nowhere to go it was to be put to sleep....it was Danny. I dropped everything and ran and got him, I was told he was extremely aggressive to other animals and some people. He hadn’t been groomed in a long time and had no current vaccinations...what was I going to do with him? I couldn’t take him home...I had 2 dogs and kids so a wonderful man who used to breed Kerries and had kennels stepped in and took him until we got him sorted....Whet has since helped with many of our rescue Kerries. I was desperate to keep him as my own dog, I could not let him go again so after introducing him to my girls without incident he came to our house and was fine. We took lots of care to ensure everything was safe and it was clear we had a lot of work to do...he couldn’t even be in the same street as another dog. I started to research, to learn, to watch videos, read and engage with a dog trainer I knew could help me. It’s been a hard road with plenty of ups and downs and we are still travelling but now we walk daily along the local canal towpath calmly and without incident, we go on pack walks with lots of other dogs and enjoy them.
He is such a loving dog and makes us laugh all the time...he is a total man in comparison with the girls who are very ladylike. He farts loudly and then turns round to look, he drinks from the toilet if the lid is left up and he is always up for a cuddle. This makes it all worthwhile. Taking on a rescue dog with issues is a huge commitment but the rewards more than make it worthwhile...I will say this quietly in case Ruby or Darcy are listening...but Danny is the favourite in the house...with us all.
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Adam & Eli (& Matilda) - February 2017
What to say about Finn, I don't think I can do him justice with words alone, he is absolutely beautiful in every way imaginable. Striking to look at, amazing temperament, bright as a button, loving, caring and most importantly for Elli and I, both himself and Matilda have formed a special bond. They are completely inseparable and although Matilda still gives him a nibble or two on the ear if he steps out of line, they seem all at sea and completely out of sync when the other isn't around.
The day we took Finn for his 6 hour 30 minute grooming session with the amazingly talented Mich Dale, Matilda refused to go out with our dog walker and sulked until he came home. I can't thank everybody at KBTR enough and especially Mark Buckley who ensured that we got the perfect dog for our circumstances.
So...... when we got Finn from Burtonwood Service station on the 24th February it was basically love at first sight. Elli burst into tears and Finn jumped into my arms from the top cage. He wagged his tail, shook his bum and nothing has quite been the same since. He spent the journey on the way back to Manchester cuddling Elli on the back seat and wildly wagging his rear whenever we spoke or made eye contact with him.
We are not 100% sure about Finn's (maybe Finbar, maybe Findlay) history, we think he may initially have been earmarked to be a show dog due to his fantastic looks and his father being a previous championship dog (i can't remember who told us that) and although house trained and great on the lead, he had trouble understanding basic instructions such as sit and wait. He has since learned how to do this.
He came with a dry cracked nose, a severely matted fall and body and in real need of some love and attention. He is now in great shape, currently weighing in at just over 12KG with a wet nose, a proud fall and great hair cut. He walks around like he is 10 ft tall.
It feels like we have never been without him and our wee family is now complete. We certainly don't know what we would do without him and know Matilda is also grateful to the fantastic work that the team at KBTR continue to do.
What to say about Finn, I don't think I can do him justice with words alone, he is absolutely beautiful in every way imaginable. Striking to look at, amazing temperament, bright as a button, loving, caring and most importantly for Elli and I, both himself and Matilda have formed a special bond. They are completely inseparable and although Matilda still gives him a nibble or two on the ear if he steps out of line, they seem all at sea and completely out of sync when the other isn't around.
The day we took Finn for his 6 hour 30 minute grooming session with the amazingly talented Mich Dale, Matilda refused to go out with our dog walker and sulked until he came home. I can't thank everybody at KBTR enough and especially Mark Buckley who ensured that we got the perfect dog for our circumstances.
So...... when we got Finn from Burtonwood Service station on the 24th February it was basically love at first sight. Elli burst into tears and Finn jumped into my arms from the top cage. He wagged his tail, shook his bum and nothing has quite been the same since. He spent the journey on the way back to Manchester cuddling Elli on the back seat and wildly wagging his rear whenever we spoke or made eye contact with him.
We are not 100% sure about Finn's (maybe Finbar, maybe Findlay) history, we think he may initially have been earmarked to be a show dog due to his fantastic looks and his father being a previous championship dog (i can't remember who told us that) and although house trained and great on the lead, he had trouble understanding basic instructions such as sit and wait. He has since learned how to do this.
He came with a dry cracked nose, a severely matted fall and body and in real need of some love and attention. He is now in great shape, currently weighing in at just over 12KG with a wet nose, a proud fall and great hair cut. He walks around like he is 10 ft tall.
It feels like we have never been without him and our wee family is now complete. We certainly don't know what we would do without him and know Matilda is also grateful to the fantastic work that the team at KBTR continue to do.
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Judy - February 2017
Jimmy came to live with me on February 19th, 2017. Jimmy is two years old and a bundle of energy!! I was fully aware that Jimmy was aggressive towards dogs and at times people.. so I thought to myself...'Buckle up your seat belt Jude...we're in for a bumpy ride!!!!'..lol.
I took Jimmy out for a walk to assess his behaviour and he barked, snarled and snapped at every dog he saw. He leapt in the air and spun round like a demented spinning top!!! I have experience of Kerries with behaviour issues so his behaviour didn't faze me. I don't think Jimmy has ever been told no though as he really doesn't like not getting his own way!!
We have locked horns on most things.....Kerrys can be so stubborn!!!! At home Jimmy is well behaved. He is a loving boy who loves to play and loves cuddles. I have to be careful though as Jimmy nips me when we are playing or when he gets excited and Jimmys teeth are like little needles!!!
I have now had Jimmy for seven weeks and it feels like he's always been part of my life and home. He is responding well to training and now accepts me as the boss!!! He is quick and eager to learn. He walks well on his lead and will now walk past most dogs if they are on the other side of the road. I put a halti collar/muzzle on him to be on the safe side (I've had a few bites!...lol) and he is much easier to handle. He is calmer and happier. His training is on going and we have a long way to go but with every little success we have, we grow closer and the bond between us deepens. Jimmy is a demanding dog who needs a lot of work and keeps me on my toes but I adore the boy!!!!
Taking on a Kerry Blue Terrier (or any other dog for that matter) that has behaviour issues is not for the faint hearted. It is a hard and challenging thing to do but the rewards are huge!!!! Working with a dog that has been aggressive and untrained and then with time, patience and love seeing that dog blossom into a happy, sociable and well adjusted dog is the most rewarding and and satisfying job I have ever known!! I am extremely grateful to all those that made it possible for Jimmy and I to become the firm friends that we are and I can truly say that even on the worst days when he is testing me and I've had a few nips.......I wouldn't change him for the world!!!!
Judy and Jimmy XXX
Jimmy came to live with me on February 19th, 2017. Jimmy is two years old and a bundle of energy!! I was fully aware that Jimmy was aggressive towards dogs and at times people.. so I thought to myself...'Buckle up your seat belt Jude...we're in for a bumpy ride!!!!'..lol.
I took Jimmy out for a walk to assess his behaviour and he barked, snarled and snapped at every dog he saw. He leapt in the air and spun round like a demented spinning top!!! I have experience of Kerries with behaviour issues so his behaviour didn't faze me. I don't think Jimmy has ever been told no though as he really doesn't like not getting his own way!!
We have locked horns on most things.....Kerrys can be so stubborn!!!! At home Jimmy is well behaved. He is a loving boy who loves to play and loves cuddles. I have to be careful though as Jimmy nips me when we are playing or when he gets excited and Jimmys teeth are like little needles!!!
I have now had Jimmy for seven weeks and it feels like he's always been part of my life and home. He is responding well to training and now accepts me as the boss!!! He is quick and eager to learn. He walks well on his lead and will now walk past most dogs if they are on the other side of the road. I put a halti collar/muzzle on him to be on the safe side (I've had a few bites!...lol) and he is much easier to handle. He is calmer and happier. His training is on going and we have a long way to go but with every little success we have, we grow closer and the bond between us deepens. Jimmy is a demanding dog who needs a lot of work and keeps me on my toes but I adore the boy!!!!
Taking on a Kerry Blue Terrier (or any other dog for that matter) that has behaviour issues is not for the faint hearted. It is a hard and challenging thing to do but the rewards are huge!!!! Working with a dog that has been aggressive and untrained and then with time, patience and love seeing that dog blossom into a happy, sociable and well adjusted dog is the most rewarding and and satisfying job I have ever known!! I am extremely grateful to all those that made it possible for Jimmy and I to become the firm friends that we are and I can truly say that even on the worst days when he is testing me and I've had a few nips.......I wouldn't change him for the world!!!!
Judy and Jimmy XXX
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Don & Deena - February 2017
Blue was surrendered to the rescue by her owner due to a change in personal circumstances and was lovingly rehomed by Don & Deena in the Suffolk area.
Blue was surrendered to the rescue by her owner due to a change in personal circumstances and was lovingly rehomed by Don & Deena in the Suffolk area.
Caroline - January 2017
Charlie was surrendered to the rescue by his owner due to a change in personal circumstance and was lovingly rehomed by Caroline and her family in Scotland.
Charlie was surrendered to the rescue by his owner due to a change in personal circumstance and was lovingly rehomed by Caroline and her family in Scotland.
Gayle - January 2017
Roah was surrendered to the rescue by her owner for behavioural reasons and was lovingly rehomed by Gayle and her family in Merseyside.
Roah was surrendered to the rescue by her owner for behavioural reasons and was lovingly rehomed by Gayle and her family in Merseyside.
Martin & Julie - December 2016
A further update on Murphy's progress will appear here shortly.
Murphy has settled in really well, good in the house, great with people and other dogs.
He has just been let off the lead and returns when called (even when a deer appeared in our walk recently).
The only issue is at night when he won't settle in his bed In the kitchen which is something we're working on. The photo is of Murphy down in Torquay on the beach - displaying his xmas haircut !!!
A further update on Murphy's progress will appear here shortly.
Murphy has settled in really well, good in the house, great with people and other dogs.
He has just been let off the lead and returns when called (even when a deer appeared in our walk recently).
The only issue is at night when he won't settle in his bed In the kitchen which is something we're working on. The photo is of Murphy down in Torquay on the beach - displaying his xmas haircut !!!
Laura - December 2016
In 2016 we decided to look into a dog breed that would suit our crazy yet very active family . Time and time again we just kept being drawn to a kbt. We researched for quite a while for breeders and came across a great breeder in Liverpool who seemed ideal . We choose a little female puppy and called her Rita . We had no idea at the time just how integral this beautiful litter of puppies would become .
Once Rita was in our lives you get the kbt bug and want to know everything possible, this is how I stumbled upon Mark and the rescue .
A beautiful pup called "The Captain" came onto the website and I was instantly drawn to him . Thankfully being such a tight knit community it came to light that Captain was actually Rita's brother from the exact same litter . I could not believe it .
We met with Captains owner on a beach in Liverpool and the pair instantly became a typical pair of siblings ( No I had the stick first behaviour ) .
We collected Captain Christmas week and he settled in to our lives as if we had collected him the same day we had Rita . They became a cheeky tag team and I became the owner of various new peep toe shoes ( only one of each pair mind ) , 6lt bowls of beef stew miraculously disappeared from the work top and the only remotes I have left are the ones I can now download as an app to my phone . The pair simply look at me and state it wasn't me ??
Whilst Captain came to us with a few undesirable traits this was anything that isn't kind of typical of this amazing terrier breed . He is stubborn and cheeky , loves to chase birds and generally just wants to be with me all of the time . With a few tweaks and training he has become the perfect dog for us .
There is no better way to return home to find two kbt's both sat with their bums wagging uncontrollably waiting for you give them the ok to unleash the licks and cuddles .
We are expecting another new arrival in July of this year , hopefully less furry and with a greater interest in milk than shoes . We have no doubt that Captain will love baby florence as much as he does all of us and he will continue to flourish in our ever growing family .
In 2016 we decided to look into a dog breed that would suit our crazy yet very active family . Time and time again we just kept being drawn to a kbt. We researched for quite a while for breeders and came across a great breeder in Liverpool who seemed ideal . We choose a little female puppy and called her Rita . We had no idea at the time just how integral this beautiful litter of puppies would become .
Once Rita was in our lives you get the kbt bug and want to know everything possible, this is how I stumbled upon Mark and the rescue .
A beautiful pup called "The Captain" came onto the website and I was instantly drawn to him . Thankfully being such a tight knit community it came to light that Captain was actually Rita's brother from the exact same litter . I could not believe it .
We met with Captains owner on a beach in Liverpool and the pair instantly became a typical pair of siblings ( No I had the stick first behaviour ) .
We collected Captain Christmas week and he settled in to our lives as if we had collected him the same day we had Rita . They became a cheeky tag team and I became the owner of various new peep toe shoes ( only one of each pair mind ) , 6lt bowls of beef stew miraculously disappeared from the work top and the only remotes I have left are the ones I can now download as an app to my phone . The pair simply look at me and state it wasn't me ??
Whilst Captain came to us with a few undesirable traits this was anything that isn't kind of typical of this amazing terrier breed . He is stubborn and cheeky , loves to chase birds and generally just wants to be with me all of the time . With a few tweaks and training he has become the perfect dog for us .
There is no better way to return home to find two kbt's both sat with their bums wagging uncontrollably waiting for you give them the ok to unleash the licks and cuddles .
We are expecting another new arrival in July of this year , hopefully less furry and with a greater interest in milk than shoes . We have no doubt that Captain will love baby florence as much as he does all of us and he will continue to flourish in our ever growing family .
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Joe - December 2016
My journey towards Nelson started in September 2016 with a speculative e-mail to the rescue. Just to give you some background, I have been a life long asthma sufferer with an allergy to dogs (amongst other animals) and for this reason I never thought I would be able to own one. That was until circumstances took a twist and I found myself living back at my parents following a divorce, while I was awaiting the completion of a new build property. They have two miniature schnauzers, which I found I was able to tolerate well with the use of a standard daily antihistamine. It was this experience that put the idea in to my head that I may be able to own a dog.
Following much research on the internet, the Kerry Blue Terrier was a breed that was coming up time and again as being a good dog for allergy sufferers. This prompted me to research the dog in more depth and what came up was really encouraging, the only down side being possible dog aggression common within the breed. Not wanting to take the internet as being the gospel truth, I made contact via e-mail with the rescue. What I got was an almost immediate response from Mark Buckley, despite being on holiday with his family at the time. Now the purpose of my contact at the time was to get insight into the breed with a view to buying a puppy, however Mark allowed be to join the recue group facebook page and I was immediately won over by the great work that was going on. Mark had suggested that I foster a dog for a short time to see how I got on, but I pretty much knew that if I did that I would have difficulty letting the dog go.
Mark was generous with his time and advice and to cut a long story short put me I touch with Bridie Moriarty in November, also attached to the rescue. I arranged to visit Bridie so that I could spend some time with her two lovely dogs to see how my allergy reacted, and I am happy to report that there wasn't a reaction at all.
From this point I was expecting a long wait for a dog to come along which would be suitable for me, but to my surprise I was contacted the following week to be told that a change in circumstances meant that a dog had become available and thus began my partnership with Nelson, who arrived with me at the beginning of December.
Since then myself and Nelson have become firm friends. We are rarely out of each others company and he has slipped into our family effortlessly. I have to say that everything that I had read and been told about the breed has manifested itself in Nelson. He is an incredibly loving and bright dog, who is absolutely fantastic with all people but can also be feisty with other dogs when out walking. I certainly couldn't be without him now.
For anyone with asthma and allergies I would highly recommend the Kerry as a great breed for you. I have had Nelson now for nearly 4 months and while I can't claim that I have been totally unaffected by him, the reaction has been very minor compared to other dog breeds. A quick visit to my GP for a slight change to my prescription and now the impact of having him around is practically zero on the negative health side compared to the exercise I get with him and the love and affection that comes back.
My journey towards Nelson started in September 2016 with a speculative e-mail to the rescue. Just to give you some background, I have been a life long asthma sufferer with an allergy to dogs (amongst other animals) and for this reason I never thought I would be able to own one. That was until circumstances took a twist and I found myself living back at my parents following a divorce, while I was awaiting the completion of a new build property. They have two miniature schnauzers, which I found I was able to tolerate well with the use of a standard daily antihistamine. It was this experience that put the idea in to my head that I may be able to own a dog.
Following much research on the internet, the Kerry Blue Terrier was a breed that was coming up time and again as being a good dog for allergy sufferers. This prompted me to research the dog in more depth and what came up was really encouraging, the only down side being possible dog aggression common within the breed. Not wanting to take the internet as being the gospel truth, I made contact via e-mail with the rescue. What I got was an almost immediate response from Mark Buckley, despite being on holiday with his family at the time. Now the purpose of my contact at the time was to get insight into the breed with a view to buying a puppy, however Mark allowed be to join the recue group facebook page and I was immediately won over by the great work that was going on. Mark had suggested that I foster a dog for a short time to see how I got on, but I pretty much knew that if I did that I would have difficulty letting the dog go.
Mark was generous with his time and advice and to cut a long story short put me I touch with Bridie Moriarty in November, also attached to the rescue. I arranged to visit Bridie so that I could spend some time with her two lovely dogs to see how my allergy reacted, and I am happy to report that there wasn't a reaction at all.
From this point I was expecting a long wait for a dog to come along which would be suitable for me, but to my surprise I was contacted the following week to be told that a change in circumstances meant that a dog had become available and thus began my partnership with Nelson, who arrived with me at the beginning of December.
Since then myself and Nelson have become firm friends. We are rarely out of each others company and he has slipped into our family effortlessly. I have to say that everything that I had read and been told about the breed has manifested itself in Nelson. He is an incredibly loving and bright dog, who is absolutely fantastic with all people but can also be feisty with other dogs when out walking. I certainly couldn't be without him now.
For anyone with asthma and allergies I would highly recommend the Kerry as a great breed for you. I have had Nelson now for nearly 4 months and while I can't claim that I have been totally unaffected by him, the reaction has been very minor compared to other dog breeds. A quick visit to my GP for a slight change to my prescription and now the impact of having him around is practically zero on the negative health side compared to the exercise I get with him and the love and affection that comes back.
Caroline - November 2016
Badger has settled in brilliantly, he loves his walks and is eating & sleeping well. He is experiencing a little separation anxiety when we have to leave him, but he only gets left for a short amount of time and since its only been 2 weeks since we collected him from his foster home I'm confident we will sort it out.
We're also having some interaction with other dogs now as well when on our walks. I feel so lucky that we were chosen to care for Badger, we love him dearly and cant thank Mark and the Kerry Blue Rescue enough.
Written 2nd December 2016
Badger has settled in brilliantly, he loves his walks and is eating & sleeping well. He is experiencing a little separation anxiety when we have to leave him, but he only gets left for a short amount of time and since its only been 2 weeks since we collected him from his foster home I'm confident we will sort it out.
We're also having some interaction with other dogs now as well when on our walks. I feel so lucky that we were chosen to care for Badger, we love him dearly and cant thank Mark and the Kerry Blue Rescue enough.
Written 2nd December 2016
Carol - October 2016
The imaginatively named Kerry was in a rescue centre in Dorset when Mark found her for us. At over 10 years old she had already been rehomed once, hundreds of miles away, and sent (yes, sent not taken) back as ‘too aggressive at the vets, and unable to bond with a new owner’… and that was after just one week!!
After some long conversations with the rescue centre, and with some sterling support from Mark, the rescue agreed that they would consider rehoming her to us if we went to visit several times to ensure compatibility before taking her. As the 6 hour round trip was physically difficult, they finally agreed that if we spent the day there, and Kerry and my existing dogs were ok together, then yes, they would let me take her home the same day… Phew!
So we set off down to Dorset with Moya the 13 year old Jack Russell and Freddie the 10 year old lurcher, still unsure how they would get on and if it would be a wasted journey, but absolutely committed that we wouldn’t take Kerry home if any of the three dogs were going to be too distressed after their introductions.
With some trepidation I went to meet Kerry alone at first, and was delighted to see such a waggy tail and happy little dog. Despite her age and health conditions (untreated Dry Eye means she has limited vision now, and cysts and lumps and bumps everywhere!). Introductions to Moya and Freddie (and of course Graham, my partner!) went better than expected and we all spent the rest of the afternoon in the Sensory garden, with all three dogs running around happily together. In true KBT style Kerry put Fred in his place when he got too boisterous, but he took it well considering.
And so we travelled home with three dogs in the car, not a sound out of any of them all the way home!
Kerry has now been here just over a month, and as with any rescue dog of her age, we didn’t expect plain sailing all the way. However, she has been and made friends with everyone at our local vets, and had her second injections without any issue, and with lots of tail wagging and making friends (we were told that she was so aggressive that she must be muzzled at the vets….), she has coped with the grandchildren visiting frequently, and knows that the three year old is a really good source of food J She has visited lots of new friends, and behaved impeccably with them all. We appreciate it is still early days, there have been a few face offs between Kerry and Freddie as Freddie doesn’t like her KBT demand barking, but we’re working on that (working on both of them!). They all sleep together, eat together and walk together as if they’ve been together for years, and are even learning to share toys nicely! We have some lovely walks over the local fields and towpaths, and then all three will settle for a nice quiet sleep once home (except when Kerry decides to play!)
Kerry still has a few issues, she doesn’t like sore patches being fussed over (although she will happily let Moya minister to them!) but she does at least grumble rather than snap so we get warning when we’re straying into difficult territory, and she is now comfortable enough to have her twice daily eye medication without being muzzled – success! Considering the vet report that came with her had suggested that euthanasia should be considered an option given her aggression, I think she feels secure and safe enough now not to need to be snappy. There is still some work to do with her, but we are already seeing her mischievous character emerging out of the sad little dog that had been described to us.
The imaginatively named Kerry was in a rescue centre in Dorset when Mark found her for us. At over 10 years old she had already been rehomed once, hundreds of miles away, and sent (yes, sent not taken) back as ‘too aggressive at the vets, and unable to bond with a new owner’… and that was after just one week!!
After some long conversations with the rescue centre, and with some sterling support from Mark, the rescue agreed that they would consider rehoming her to us if we went to visit several times to ensure compatibility before taking her. As the 6 hour round trip was physically difficult, they finally agreed that if we spent the day there, and Kerry and my existing dogs were ok together, then yes, they would let me take her home the same day… Phew!
So we set off down to Dorset with Moya the 13 year old Jack Russell and Freddie the 10 year old lurcher, still unsure how they would get on and if it would be a wasted journey, but absolutely committed that we wouldn’t take Kerry home if any of the three dogs were going to be too distressed after their introductions.
With some trepidation I went to meet Kerry alone at first, and was delighted to see such a waggy tail and happy little dog. Despite her age and health conditions (untreated Dry Eye means she has limited vision now, and cysts and lumps and bumps everywhere!). Introductions to Moya and Freddie (and of course Graham, my partner!) went better than expected and we all spent the rest of the afternoon in the Sensory garden, with all three dogs running around happily together. In true KBT style Kerry put Fred in his place when he got too boisterous, but he took it well considering.
And so we travelled home with three dogs in the car, not a sound out of any of them all the way home!
Kerry has now been here just over a month, and as with any rescue dog of her age, we didn’t expect plain sailing all the way. However, she has been and made friends with everyone at our local vets, and had her second injections without any issue, and with lots of tail wagging and making friends (we were told that she was so aggressive that she must be muzzled at the vets….), she has coped with the grandchildren visiting frequently, and knows that the three year old is a really good source of food J She has visited lots of new friends, and behaved impeccably with them all. We appreciate it is still early days, there have been a few face offs between Kerry and Freddie as Freddie doesn’t like her KBT demand barking, but we’re working on that (working on both of them!). They all sleep together, eat together and walk together as if they’ve been together for years, and are even learning to share toys nicely! We have some lovely walks over the local fields and towpaths, and then all three will settle for a nice quiet sleep once home (except when Kerry decides to play!)
Kerry still has a few issues, she doesn’t like sore patches being fussed over (although she will happily let Moya minister to them!) but she does at least grumble rather than snap so we get warning when we’re straying into difficult territory, and she is now comfortable enough to have her twice daily eye medication without being muzzled – success! Considering the vet report that came with her had suggested that euthanasia should be considered an option given her aggression, I think she feels secure and safe enough now not to need to be snappy. There is still some work to do with her, but we are already seeing her mischievous character emerging out of the sad little dog that had been described to us.
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The Rescue's 2016/17 Annual Reports
The 30th September 2017 saw the end of the Kerry Blue Terrier Rescues first financial period.
Right from the outset we felt that it is important to be transparent on how the Rescue is operated and funded and so it gives us great pleasure to share with you our first annual reports.
If anyone has any questions or queries regarding the reports then please contact one of rescue team members below.
Kind Regards
Kerry Blue Terrier Rescue
Mark Buckley (KBTR Managing Director) on [email protected]
Emma Bendall (KBTR Treasurer) on [email protected]
Right from the outset we felt that it is important to be transparent on how the Rescue is operated and funded and so it gives us great pleasure to share with you our first annual reports.
If anyone has any questions or queries regarding the reports then please contact one of rescue team members below.
Kind Regards
Kerry Blue Terrier Rescue
Mark Buckley (KBTR Managing Director) on [email protected]
Emma Bendall (KBTR Treasurer) on [email protected]
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Managing Director's Report
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Treasurer's Report
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