insideKENT Magazine Issue 41 - August 2015 | Page 119

Watch demonstrations from Bravo Working Dog Rescue, the UK’s only
non-profit welfare organisation dedicated to the rescue, rehabilitation and
re-homing of failed and retiring working dogs. Bravo will bring a couple of
its dogs along with experienced handlers to give a display of bite work used
to restrain people.
The Royal Army Veterinary Corps recruiting team will demonstrate military
working dogs' obedience and search training techniques. The RAVC provides
the service lead in the development of good husbandry, training practice,
preventative medicine and care for service animals. There will also be
displays from Fire Investigation Search Dogs, called out to fire scenes where
arson is suspected. During the demo, the handlers will explain what the
dog’s training involves and will be on hand throughout the day to answer
questions.
Newfoundland dogs return to impress with their size and strength as they
leap from a boat on the lake to effect rescues and tow a boat. Look out
for a Newfoundland puppy in the line-up, as well as guide dog puppies
guaranteed to delight visitors with their cuteness while their elders demonstrate
obedience and skills.
And it’s not just about dogs in service. Over the weekend, visitors have the
chance to enter their four-legged friends in a fun dog show, with awards
for the winners in each category. It’s a great opportunity to parade your pet
against the beautiful backdrop of the historic castle and admire the canine
talent on show. Owners can also talk to experts about their dog’s behaviour
and browse the wide variety of stalls selling dog-related goodies and
accessories.

FUN FOR ALL THE FAMILY

Dating back to the 13th century, Hever Castle is what every child wants a
castle to be: crenelated, moated, and with lots of armour and gruesome
torture devices in its Gatehouse (thankfully not still in use).
It is surrounded by glorious grounds to get lost in including the Water Maze,
100-year old Yew Maze, and Lake Walk. Children can let off steam in the
Adventure Playground, and there’s a fascinating collection of period miniature
model houses in a small museum next to the Gift Shop too.
Additional activities over the school summer holidays include Have-a-go
Archery* and boating* on the 38-acre lake, as well as trips on the African
Queen Steam Boat* (*additional charge). Families can make a day of it with
lunch in the award-winning restaurant, which also serves afternoon tea with
delicious cakes, or bring a picnic to enjoy in the grounds. Refreshments
and ice creams are available from kiosks to round off the perfect summer
day out.
Gardens open at 10.30am; Castle opens at 12 noon. Last admission
4.30pm; final exit 6pm. Admission Prices – Castle and Gardens: Adults
£16; Seniors £14; Children (5-15 years) £9; Family ticket £42.50. For
further information, visit www.hevercastle.co.uk or call 01732 865224.

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