Hi folks, I am happy (and relieved) to be in one piece after my first ever skiing  lesson, a birthday present from Jan Fennell (Mother).

It is also going to be interesting to discover muscles I never knew I had in the morning when they seize up.

The day served as a reminder that I may have been practicing Dog Listening for a long time now, but I must always be aware that for some people, it may be completely new to them, and they may need time to get the hang of it.

As I wobbled down the slopes, my instructor James showed admirable patience throughout the day, and I'm sure he finally let me onto the big slope because he was confident in my ability.

In fact he filmed me as I slowly made my way down the very steep slope.

It took time to make my way down, while little kids inevitably whizzed past me. But it didn't put me off too much.

James told me what I needed to do to be happy and in control was practice... where have I heard that before?

Anyway, I think I will get back on the Piste again soon, and I have a renewed sense of patience and respect for people who may be making small steps in doing the Amichien Bonding process.

A good and patient teacher makes the experience enjoyable and gives confidence to carry on. Lesson learnt... check out the clip below for my next lesson - apparently.

Cheers for now, Tony Knight

PS Now I come to think about it, as I flew past James I thought I heard him mention You've Been Framed...

Hi folks, Tony here. As I was throwing away last year's diary and calendar, I was reminded of probably the most random question I have been asked in all my years as a Dog Listener (and sometimes they can get very random) - by one of the months that featured a nice young lady holding a snake. 

A client once asked me what her dogs would do in the event of a snake attack. Now, I would understand if she was living in rattlesnake territory, but as they lived in North London I thought it not a pressing issue. I did give an answer based on the decision and calm reaction of the leader being key, but it has popped into my head from time to time, and Miss July reminded me once again.

However, this time I can offer a visual demonstration courtesy of my Mum, Jan Fennell, as she took her dogs down the lane opposite her house:

I can assure you that no snake was harmed in the making of this film. Curiosity killed the cat, but the dogs listened...

I'm in Australia now, so I'll test this theory with the various beasties that live there. Wish me luck with the sharks....

Cheers, Tony

TONY KNIGHT B.A (Hons) ADL  seen here with his Springer Spaniels, Kes and Pru

10 years as a full time dog trainer has given Tony experience of working with just about every shape, size and breed of dog you can imagine.

He is currently Principal Tutor of Dog Listening Courses Worldwide, which are steadily gathering international acclaim in Australia, New Zealand, the US, the UK and right across Europe.

It all started as a favour for his mum, Jan Fennell

"I would use my holiday time from work to come to the aid of owners and dogs in distress when Mum was swamped with calls from all over the country.”

But work demand continued to escalate for the increasingly popular Dog Listener, Jan Fennell as the effectiveness of her training techniques and her fame spread.

“It was only when I ran out of holiday that I was faced with a choice - work with Mum or stay where I was."

So Tony took the plunge, bringing his own qualities to the Dog Listening Process. 

"Mum approached her technique from the point of view of the dog. I realised that the process worked both ways, that humans were just as important in the equation and needed just as much help."

The partnership has flourished, and the unique process of Dog Listening, also known as Amichien Bonding is recognised and used around the world by both dog trainers and dog owners.

Tony views Dog Listener Training as a language course, which teaches people how to "speak dog" and understand their values and behaviour. “This process is easy for anyone to learn”.

Tony owns two “amazingly calm” Springer Spaniels, Kes and Pru, who often feature in his work.

"I love my job and the fact that I am able to help make a difference to the lives of many troubled dogs really gives me the job satisfaction I crave."

Above: Jan Fennell with son Tony Knight and Jan's dogs Kamatz and Shamook