I've often heard the question: Who is actually behind HundeNachrichten? For a long time, I refrained from showing a face. Because HundeNachrichten should really only be about one thing: our four-legged friends. But as the saying goes: Even the best dog observer is a dog himself! So it's time to step out of the shadows and introduce myself.
My name is Stefan Richter and dogs have been with me almost my whole life. As a child, I had a strong desire to have my own four-legged friend, but circumstances did not allow it at the time. It was only during my apprenticeship, when a German shepherd shared our office, that I really felt this connection for the first time. I remember how he often lay next to my desk while I did my tasks. In those moments, I knew that a dog would be an indispensable part of my life. This German shepherd awakened a passion in me that continues to this day. For me, dogs are more than just pets, they are loyal companions and friends. And this passion is the driving force behind HundeNachrichten.
With your own four walls (1986) My first dog, the mixed breed 'Tim', moved in with me. A year later 'Rocco', a German Shepherd mix, followed. With 'Tim' by my side, I felt truly complete for the first time. His unconditional loyalty and his cheerful nature were balm for my soul. When 'Rocco' (1987) When he joined us, our little pack was perfect. The hours we spent training together were not only exhausting, but also incredibly fulfilling. I still remember the day when 'Rocco' passed his first protection dog test with the best score. I was so happy!
In 1988 I became a member of the Hennweiler Fire Brigade Rescue Dog Squad III and began my rescue dog training. Working with these special dogs was a real calling. Later, as a rescue dog trainer, I was always fascinated to see how humans and dogs develop into a strong team. In 1991 I moved to the German Red Cross and took on various responsible roles in the field of rescue dogs, such as rescue dog examiner. The time was characterized by many exciting missions and valuable encounters.
From the beginning, team-oriented training and the bond between humans and dogs were my main focus. I have seen time and again how humans and their dogs strengthen and enrich each other. As a trainer, I have helped many people build a deeper bond with their dog. It was incredible to see how both of them developed. I would like to continue to help more people discover the wonderful world of the human-dog relationship.
Grief and loss
There were also sad moments, of course. 'Tim' died in August 2001 at the age of 15. I was not the only one who was grieving, but also his companion 'Rocco'. He was a different dog – he was listless for weeks and hardly ate anything. In December he too died at the age of 14 ½. A very difficult time.
'Benny', a male Labrador Retriever, moved in. I was a dog handler with him in the DRK rescue dog squad in Bad Kreuznach and was responsible for the training area. In 2014, 'Benny' died at the age of 13.
After three males came 'Fenja' (German Shepherd-Hovawart mix) from the Koblenz Dog Aid when she was three and a half months old. For the first time, a female dog. It was a new, wonderful experience for me. Since I didn't want to do any dog sports with her, we were often out and about and made a lot of great dog acquaintances. I must say (almost jealous) say she has a large circle of friends. Unfortunately, 'Fenja' suddenly became ill this August and went completely blind. A big challenge for both of us…
A journey through the media world
I started in the editorial department of a school newspaper, followed by a fan magazine for the rock group “Queen”, which I published at the ripe old age of 16, and then my own local newspaper. From writing articles to creating the layout to producing them in my own printing shop, I hardly missed anything. To this day, “making newspapers” is my main job. Although the classic newspaper making has expanded to include an online presence.
In addition to print media, the Internet has always been very interesting to me as a news platform. I started with the first modems with mini-transfer rates, which are absolutely not comparable to today's speed of fiber optic connections.
Just sitting in front of the monitor gave (gives) it is not. I taught myself various programming languages. Today there are sophisticated content management systems, but it is good to understand how they work and it is even better to be able to make changes to the programming yourself.
From protest against dog laws
to the comprehensive online magazine
HundeNachrichten was founded in 2000 as a reaction to a social development that made it difficult for humans and dogs to live together. Statements by Günter Bloch and Dr. Dorit Federsen-Petersen, among others, as well as many other specialist articles showed a different, more sensible way. But unfortunately politicians seemed unable to read and do not want to deal with scientific findings – and this is still the case to this day. We know, to the detriment of dogs.
The protest against the dog laws developed into a comprehensive online magazine that continues to advocate for the well-being of dogs to this day.
As a long-time dog owner and committed member of the dog world, I have gained extensive knowledge about our four-legged friends. I am happy to pass on these experiences – and I am still learning something new myself!
And now?
For me, HundeNachrichten is more than just a website. It is a platform where I can share my passion for dogs and exchange ideas with like-minded people. Together with my team, we are constantly working to provide readers with up-to-date information and valuable tips on everything to do with dogs.
Would you like to delve deeper into the world of dog news? Then subscribe to our Newsletter and discover exclusive content in our 'Blog Plus'-Area! Here you can find personal insights behind the scenes, more about our editorial dog 'Fenja' and of course about me.
'Blog-Plus' also offers the opportunity to get in direct contact with me and other readers. Share experiences, ask questions or just exchange ideas about our shared passion.
I look forward to your comments and messages!
With greetings to all four-legged and two-legged friends
Your Stefan