It's taken me a few days to pull myself together and post this message.
I'm really sorry to have to let you all know that we had to have Honey, our 10 month old golden bitch, put to sleep on Monday night.
Many of you will know that we had problems with Honey's agression from the start. We tried behaviouralists, training classes, and putting into action stacks of advice from the professionals. But it just got worse - to the point where Honey had bitten (drawing blood) my wife and snapped a number of times at my young daughter.
Re-homing wasn't an option - the advice from the The Cocker Spaniel Club was that we would simply be passing the problem onto someone else.And they were right.
The vet on Monday was brilliant, but we were really left with little option in the best interests of Honey and my family. It was the most horrendous decision I have had to make and we are absolutely gutted. However, in my heart of hearts I believe we have done the right thing. Honey is now free of her demons and in a much nicer place.
We don't know whether this was the much talked about but very rare 'Rage Syndrome' or whether she just had a really bad agression/dominance problem. When she was good, she was the most fabulous companion, and BEST looking of them all! However, when she was bad she was scary.
During her short time with us, though, Honey brought us lots of enjoyment and we have plenty of happy memories.
I would like to say a huge public 'Thank You' to Jane S and Linda Ward for all of their advice and support.
Sorry to have to put such a sad message on this fantastic forum, but I know many of you with understand what we're going through right now. Honey's situation is expectional, and anyone reading this who is not a cocker owner (yet) should not be put off. They are the most wonderful dogs, and we will definately be getting another pup in the New Year.
With kind regards
Phil
