Many years ago when Jack the dog was just a puppy we took him for a walk around a country park called Bentley Priory. All the family were there and we had a great time watching Jack's behaviour as he discovered sticks, ducks and many things for the first time.

There was one 'first' he did not enjoy. Half way round the lake we came across the water channel in the picture above. At Fred's encouragement Jack tried to leap from the side onto the central section. He slipped and plunged into the water completely disappearing from sight. Penny was nearest and, fishing around in the murkey water, quickly found him and hauled him to the surface by the scruff of his neck.

He was a sorry, soggy mess – and terrified to boot! Jack hardly went near water for years, but now he seems fine. Today's visit to the same spot did not produce any negative reaction.