Channel 4 - "It's me or the dog!"

[reshmi]

Hi my name is Reshmi and i work on the Channel 4 programme, "It's me or the dog!" We are looking into filming a short feature on couples who are parting ways but can't decide who their dog should live with. If this is you or you know someone then we could help so send me an email to reshmi.bajnath@ricochet.co.uk

Thanks

[crazydays]

Good topic- you could get all kinds of stories from the Humane Societies. I am appauled by the number of dogs abandoned in these situations. I hate the throw away society we have. Relationship break-ups, moving, can't have a dog in a condo; How do these people live with themselves? How do they look at their confused dog and tie him to the front doors of the shelter-then drive away!! Worst yet- how do they abandon their senior dog-very sad to see these dogs dejected and alone in the kennels- their world has shattered in front of them.
I would love to see a documentary on the sadness of these dogs who are abandoned from these relationships. ??? does this mean that both partners have lost their committment to caring, being loving; how can they look that dog in the face and then pull the rug from right out under them!! Very sad.

[chrisjonesxx]

Any program commissioned by UK’s Channel 4 must be treated with a considerable degree of circumspection. Their track record of similar programs is deplorable.
This ‘fly-on-the-wall-stuff’ invariably results in intrusion into the private life of the participants, who, it must be said, turn out to be no more than a bunch of sad, selfish exhibitionists. You can be sure there will be little empathy for the plight of the dog, just an exercise in personal confrontation and sensationalism. It may sell TV advertising, but it is still absolute rubbish. The treatment of the poor dogs in such circumstances demands dignity and respect – they will not get it from Channel 4.

[boxermad]

I have actually been on the show, my Boxer Zulu was filmed for the season that is due to be aired next.
As for the comments of being a sad selfish exhibitionist, i beg to differ.
Wanting what is best for your pets to allow them to live a quality life is not deemed a selfish act but rather one that will enhance there lives.
Victoria was calm, assertive and very proffesional and always had my dogs best interests at heart. She made sure there were regular breaks and that the dogs were well equipt with everything they needed.
My dog has come on leaps and bounds. She equipt me and my hubby with the know how on dealing with some of our problems, there are no quick fix solutions. I am still training in certain areas with my dog and belive that your dog is never to old to learn or be trained rather then end up in a shelter.
Dogs are expected to fit into an un natural society, the most we can do is help them on the way.
:eek:

[Carol]

I strongly believe that a dog is never too old to learn
new behaviour and new tricks.
I have a 6 yr old and an 11 yr old adopted in the
last 10 months. They have both learned lots of new
things with me.
Consistency, patience and kindness mixed with firmness
works like a charm.

[skippygurl00]

I have seen the show a few times and if someone can correct a dogs behaviour to save it from being dumped at a shelter or worse put to sleep,then Im for it.the trainer also trains the owners which is most important

[Carol]

It usually is the owner who needs the training.

[colliecrazy]

Carol. oh how i agree.

[nikk]

Any program commissioned by UK’s Channel 4 must be treated with a considerable degree of circumspection. Their track record of similar programs is deplorable.
This ‘fly-on-the-wall-stuff’ invariably results in intrusion into the private life of the participants, who, it must be said, turn out to be no more than a bunch of sad, selfish exhibitionists. You can be sure there will be little empathy for the plight of the dog, just an exercise in personal confrontation and sensationalism. It may sell TV advertising, but it is still absolute rubbish. The treatment of the poor dogs in such circumstances demands dignity and respect – they will not get it from Channel 4.
Is this the same show that is on Animal Planet? They have one that is similar with a trainer "victoria".

[LabpupsUK]

I think her name is Victoria Stillwell, I watch the show and really enjoy it and get some good tips. I hope behind the scenes things aren't as bad as chrisjonesxx discribes.

[nikk]

Yep, it's the same one. I actually think it's a great show. They are trying to help these pups, and there's nothing wrong with that. And like someone said it's often the owner that needs the training.:p