A Dog Who Changed Lives
Hunter wasn’t just a rescue—he was a teacher, a friend, and a shining example of the power of compassionate dog training in Hampshire, Surrey and Berkshire. For Bob Lucas, owner of 3 Counties Dog Training, Hunter was more than a pet. He was a once-in-a-lifetime companion who helped both humans and dogs grow in confidence.
Meeting Hunter
Hunter came into Bob and Joy’s life as a one-year-old German Shepherd rescue. He was in his third home, unsure of what to expect, with a matted coat and no basic training.
“From the moment I saw him, my heart melted,” Bob recalled. “He had no manners and had clearly been passed around, but I saw something special in him.”
Bob, a trainer with more than 46 years’ experience, knew he had a challenge on his hands—but also an opportunity. Joy, his wife, took on the task of restoring Hunter’s magnificent long coat, grooming him an hour a day for two weeks.
Training the Trainer’s Dog
Training Hunter was like working with a puppy in an adult’s body. He was strong, eager, and surprisingly quick to learn. Within a week, he was walking beautifully to heel. Within a month, he had developed a powerful bond with Bob—loyal, focused, and full of joy.
Hunter became more than just a well-trained dog. He became a trusted companion and assistant in Bob’s training programmes.
“He was dog-friendly, people-friendly, and incredibly calm,” Bob said. “I used him to socialise puppies and to help adults and children who were nervous around dogs. He’d just stand there, patiently letting them stroke him.”
Hunter’s natural empathy and calmness made him a powerful teacher in his own right—and a silent ambassador for responsible, reward-based training
“I loved every bone in that big mutt’s body – we were inseparable.”
Saying Goodbye
For eleven years, Bob and Hunter were a team. They helped countless dogs and owners together. But in January 2025, after a short illness, it was time to say goodbye.
“It was devastating,” Bob said. “But I knew exactly who to call. I’ve trusted Dignity Pet Crematorium for many years.”
Why Dignity Matters
Bob has known Dignity’s owner, Kevin Spurgeon, for decades—going back to when Kevin’s father, Barry, first founded the business in 1992 with his wife, Carole.
“I’ve had the honour of seeing behind the scenes at Dignity, and I can tell you: every pet is treated like one of their own.”
Dignity offers:
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Private Farewell Rooms to spend unhurried time with your pet
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Collection from your home or vet
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Guaranteed individual cremation – your pet is never mixed with another
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Memorial options including caskets, urns, keepsakes, and more
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Compassionate staff who guide you every step of the way
Hunter was cremated individually, with the respect and dignity he deserved.
Carrying on Hunter’s Legacy
Bob never set out to use his own dogs as a marketing tool—but watching Hunter work alongside him, clients were often inspired.
“If I had a pound for every time someone said, ‘I wish my dog could do that,’ I’d be a wealthy man,” Bob laughed. “And I always say, ‘They can—you just need to learn how to communicate with them.’”
Hunter’s story is a testament to that philosophy. Every dog, no matter their start in life, can grow into a loyal, calm, and happy companion with the right training.
To learn more about Bob’s work in dog training across Hampshire, Surrey and Berkshire, visit 3 Counties Dog Training.
Until We Meet Again
Hunter may have arrived as a lost rescue, but he left as a cherished friend—loved deeply, remembered always.
“While we only have memories now, I know he was given the best right to the very end. That’s what Dignity gave us—peace, compassion, and the goodbye he deserved.”
