A woof guide to animal handling is being offered by Keighley Dog Training Society.

Group leader David Paine sends information packs to dog owners on the waiting list for classes.

David, pictured with Meg, also provides telephone advice to owners facing problems with their pets.

The long-established society offers ten-week dog obedience courses to local people.

The Monday evening classes are so popular that most of the time there is a three-month waiting list.

Mr Paine assesses prospective "students" at his home to ensure they are suitable for group classes.

He said: "No dog is ever refused, but occasionally I get a biter or one that may disrupt the class."

Mr Paine has various techniques to settle a dog, including one-to-one training, so it can eventually join a class. After the ten-week beginners' course, dog owners can move onto a more advanced course with the society.

They can also be put in touch with other organisations running sessions such as agility or sheepdog training.

Mr Paine hoped some participants would stay with the society and serve on its management committee. He said: "We're all volunteers. We are just interested in covering our costs for the hall."

The classes are run in central Keighley on Mondays. Mr Paine can be contacted on 01535 661379.