Poppy's Journey
On the 17th February 2005, the Campbell family drove to Stuart Milner's kennels in the Midlands and picked up a rescued Harrier Beagle.
Poppy had come from a violent home and had had a bad start to her life. As Poppy required a 'quiet life', she would be well suited to a happy home near the Sussex Downs.
Initially Poppy seemed to settle in, eating well and enjoying her walks on the lead. She was very quiet and appeared slightly withdrawn, so we allowed her space and time to adapt. She was still expressing milk as her puppies had been removed from her far too early and there was a sadness about her. Unable to play because she didn't know how, Wendy and I remained patient but were obviously keen for our families to meet Poppy. That's where it all went wrong. Poppy bit my mother within two minutes of meeting her and continued to bite, snap, growl, bark and try to attack anyone who came near her or us. Friends and neighbours couldn't visit and families stayed away. We explained the situation to Beagle Welfare, who sent along some Area Officers to assess the situation and to offer help and support. Poppy bit one of them as well. The future did not bode well for Poppy.
Undeterred, and up for a challenge, Wendy and I remained resilient. We were committed to Poppy and determined to break her cycle of fear aggression. She had never been aggressive to us, displaying only unconditional love and affection. Armed with a strong lead, a muzzle, a training cage and lots of patient understanding, began a journey for the three of us. At times it was hard and quite stressful for all. As prison officers it was easy for us to set Poppy rules and guidelines.
She had structured expectations and training targets that were achievable. We challenged her bad behaviour, often by ignoring her for hours, which was harder for me and we rewarded her good behaviour. Often, for all Poppy's good erfforts, she would always take three steps forward in the right direction and then ten backwards. At times this was disheartening but I still believe Poppy disappointed herself more than us.
Over the next year, Poppy grew in confidence and became 'happy'. It was as if she had turned a corner. This year we re-homed another Beagle called Frankie, who is just the loveliest little dog and what an inpact she has had on Poppy's life. Both girls are the best of friends who play, eat, sleep and walk their way through a wonderful life.
Poppy is now unrecognisable from the dog she used to be. Poppy no longer needs a muzzle and is off the lead. She is a happy, well adjusted and fabulous pet and companion. She loves being with people, especially our mums and families. Poppy loves life now and embraces every day with a happy contentment. She has a good home, a lovely friend in Frankie and us. All in all, Wendy and I are very proud of both our 'girls'.
Best wishes
The Campbell Family
(First published in In Full Cry the newsletter for the Friends of Beagle Welfare)
Happy Tales.. 1 .. 2