New Releases by Jackie Drakeford

A passion for working lurchers has been the driving force behind this book. With many of their traditional skills now difficult to uphold within the law, there is the risk of losing honest experience of what lies at the heart of this tremendously versatile working dog. The author writes from the perspective of one who really has seen it and done it in all its glorious diversity, and has clearly loved every minute. With a wide and detailed background of training and entering to quarry, the author shares fascinating details and tales taken from her own days and nights of hunting with lurchers from the south coast to the northernmost tip of Scotland. Easy to read yet outstandingly informative, this book allows us to look over the author's shoulder and watch lurchers prowling round buries, working through thickets or stretched out at full pelt across open landscape. This book is for everyone who wants to know about lurchers working where results really count.

A down to earth dog behaviour book that sorts out the jargon and provides an easy to read reference book for all breeds of dog.

The rapport between dog and human is at its strongest and most profound when the dog is fulfilling its working instincts under human guidance. It is deeply moving when seen at its best, blurring the lines between canine and human, almost spiritual in its harmony. There are many ways in which dogs work with us, far exceeding anything that they would do for themselves, and often in danger of compromising their own welfare on the way. Dogs are infinitely generous with using their health and strength, their particular skills and instincts under our instruction to help us. Inevitably, there are accidents and illnesses, which can occur as a direct result of this willingness. We in our turn can do our best to keep risks to a minimum, and give the most appropriate care for that particular dog working in that particular discipline, whatever difficulties arise.

Those of us who pursue countryside activities know that they are the greatest of levellers: one minute birdsong, next minute cowpat. Here we have a collection of wry snippets about those situations that can arise when keeping hunting dogs, going out in the beating line or following the hunt.

This new edition includes the latest ferreting techniques and healthcare issues.

With the tips and training techniques in this book, owners of pet lurchers and domestic greyhounds can learn how to live happily with their dogs at home and in public. In particular, they will learn how to establish a sound recall so that their lurcher can be exercised with confidence off the lead. All aspects of owning and training lurchers are covered in detail. * Now fully updated * Ideal for owners of pet lurchers and domestic greyhounds, including rescue greyhounds

This book presents a completely fresh look at the care and keeping of dogs, approaching the whole concept from a holistic viewpoint. Working within the natural instincts and physique of the dog, the authors demonstrate how a healthier, happier dog is the key to a deeper and more enjoyable relationship between dog and owner. Mark Elliott, one of the foremost holistic veterinarians in the UK, and co-author Jackie Drakeford, well known in working dog circles, share their knowledge in a relaxed, easy and informative style in this unique guide for the modern dog owner.

Rabbits have been a menace to farmers, property owners, and gardeners since land was first cultivated, and their control remains a constant problem today. This invaluable book covers all types of management from shooting, trapping, and ferreting to fencing, chemical, and disease control methods. It also includes chapters on rabbit habitat and biology along with skinning and preparation techniques for the pot.

The lurcher has been with us for thousands of years. Large or small, rough or smooth, images of lurchers have appeared over the years in paintings, in tapestries or on pottery. What is the attraction of these dogs? Perhaps it lies in the strong bond that must be formed as a result of the close working relationship a hunting dog must forge with its master. From selection of a suitable lurcher to fitness, training, working and breeding Understanding the Working Lurcher offers sound, common-sense advice based on years of experience. Contents include: choosing a lurcher; general and field training; entering to quarry; care and maintenance and breeding, pregnancy, and birth. AUTHOR: Jackie Drakeford is an experienced countryside writer with a special interest in lurchers. She writes for countryside publications including Countryman's Weekly and Country Illustrated, and judges at lurcher and ferret shows. She is passionate about the countryside and conservation and supports many animal welfare associations. A proportion of her royalties from this book will be donated to Lurchersearch UK 100 b/w photos