Who let the dogs out? Dog ownership has risen dramatically in the last 18 months, mainly due to lockdowns and people having more time on their hands. But is it all it’s cracked up to be? MANY OF US are dog lovers and owners and gain great pleasure from our four legged friends. Here at Active we have three dogs. Mary’s Midge and Kate’s two, Knibbs and Mae. And Mary seems to accumulate quite a few house guests along the way as her daughters’ dogs are frequent visitors. Thankfully they all rub along quite happily, curling up together and enjoying walks, which is just as well. There’s nothing better than sitting with the dog keeping your feet warm or in Midge’s case sharing the sofa with you. And to be a dog owner means that you have to get out every day into the fresh air, whatever the weather to give them some exercise. This isn’t always the most enjoyable job when it’s pouring with rain and in a howling gale but you always feel better afterwards and there really is nothing better than heading out with the dog for a good long walk; you always have company, fresh air and exercise.. But there’s much more to owning a dog than just giving it a bowl of food every day and taking it for a walk. You need to look after your canine friend; its health, behaviour and social skills are all your responsibility So read on to find out more about being a responsible dog owner; starting with finding one in the first place
24 September 2021 / theactivemag.com
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