HELEN'S HOUNDS NEWSLETTER - MAY/JUNE 2026
- helenshoundsdt
- 41 minutes ago
- 3 min read
Another busy month here at Helen's Hounds Dog Training, filled with exciting activities, but before I delve into the details of our latest happenings, who's up for a FREE RAFFLE? This will be launching on the 1st of July and the lucky winner will be drawn on the 23rd of July. The prize for this raffle will be a natural treat box filled with treats that your furry friends are sure to love. The reason behind this celebration? It's a significant milestone, as Helen's Hounds will be officially FIVE years old! This journey has been incredible, and I want to celebrate it with all of you who have supported me along the way. Make sure to keep an eye out for our posts on both Facebook and Instagram, where we will be sharing more details about the raffle. If you are not on social media, don’t worry! Just let me know, and I will happily issue you with a Raffle Number so you can participate in this fun event. Thank you for being a part of Helen's Hounds!
Regarding the five-year goal, I'm still striving to reach 100 Google reviews by that time. I currently have 90, so if you'd like to assist me with this challenge, my Google review link is here and at the bottom of this newsletter.
To begin, on May 30th and 31st, Helen's Hounds organized two UK Sniffer Dogs Trials, featuring Bronze and Silver levels. Participants included a mix of my clients and attendees from Sittingbourne, Maidstone, Tenterden, and other areas. A total of 23 teams competed, and everyone had a fantastic time. I'm delighted to announce the winners: Team Fudge won the Bronze, and Team Reggie claimed the Silver. Congratulations to them and to everyone who participated.
HELEN'S HOUNDS SUMMER HEAT RULES
As the hottest months of the year arrive and with some clients being new this year, here's a reminder: I won't conduct outdoor classes if the temperature exceeds 23 degrees. For clients with Brachycephalic breeds (like French Bulldogs or Bulldogs) or elderly dogs, I will discuss this separately with you, as these dogs are more vulnerable to weather conditions.
Classes in halls differ because each hall is unique. However, if I need to cancel a lesson, I will inform you. If I cancel a lesson, you will be offered an alternative lesson, a credit for future groups, or a refund for that session.
One to ones will also be decided on individual basis depending on where and what time the session is due to take place.
I will not put training over heat safety.
WORLD CUP 4-4-2 CHALLENGE
Over the past week, the Scentwork Groups have been participating in the group rounds of the UK Sniffer Dogs World Cup Challenge 4-4-2. Each team competes to earn points, but there are penalties for moving "up field," making a false call (red flag), or if the dog stops searching (injury time).
The Winners so far (Group 5 hasn't done the challenge yet as weather stopped play - too hot)
Group 1 Ziggy
Group 2 Fudge
Group 3 Teddy
Group 4 Red
CERTIFICATES AWARDED IN GROUPS:
INSTITUTE OF MODERN DOG TRAINERS GRADES
GRADE 1 BERNIE, TOPSY, OBI
GRADE 2 LARA, PARIS, NIKO, BERNIE
GRADE 3 BONNIE, EDDIE, OAKLEY
GRADE 4 BONNIE, EDDIE
GRADE 6 ROXY
Huge Congratulations to Roxy for completing this full set of the IMDT Grades, it is not an easy task and she is the first Boxer to have done this.
UK SNIFFER DOGS (not many this time due to trial practice and World Cup Challenge)
SILVER
LEVEL 2 TEDDY, BAILEY
Would also like to congratulate all those who have graduated from puppy group this week.
One-on-one sessions have been progressing well, combining special one-on-one meetings for puppy group attendees and general rescue cases. It's wonderful to see them all settling into their new homes. Each situation presents its own unique challenges, and I'm here to provide reassurance or guidance as needed. If you haven't yet scheduled your special puppy one-on-one, please let me know.
Upcoming Puppy Classes, the Thursday classes are full, however if you know anybody with a puppy I still have 2 spaces on Friday mornings. They start 3rd July.
Watch out for news of Have a go Scentwork, plus a recall workshop shortly.
I think I shall sign off now, however if there are any subjects you would like me to discuss in my next Blog let me know.
Helen
Please find below my Google Review link as promised, thank you in advance.