The Ace Organisation in Holland, Spain and the Belgium, have also been busy of late, organising a somewhat international press presence for when Tinkerbell arrives at the Refuge in the south of Spain. Indeed, here too, there will, hopefully, be press coverage of the journey in a national 4×4 magazine. We await the input of information from the dog press at the moment, but it appears positive.

For those amongst you who wonder why this expedition is taking place, please ponder the following thought…

If not me, then who?
If not this, then what?
If not now, then when?

This is just one way to raise awareness of ACE. There are many ways this could be done, but this is the way I have chosen as I believe I can do it.

Let us not forget the reasons behind all this. The tireless staff and helpers of ACE. The organisation spans some five countries and has numerous others where people support them directly.

Even though the centre is in Spain, it may surprise many to know that the Spanish are not the worst culprits in their treatment of the dogs abroad. British ex-pats have a horrendous track record in abandoning their dogs in the Spanish countryside. They no longer fit into the lifestyle changes, or are no longer wanted due to it being too much trouble to bring them with them on the return to the UK.

This practice makes me ashamed to be of the same nationality. Once you take a dog into your home, you have a duty to it. They look to you for their food, their comforts, exercise, health and general well being. Your leadership within the pack gives balance to the dog’s life. In return, you receive their undying devotion and love.

There have been times in my life where I have interactions with other humans, and realise why I prefer the simplicity of life with a dog. There are no hidden agendas nor lies. Loyalty will always be there.