For all the charm of country life, the long walks, the muddy boots, the dogs bounding through fields, there remains one universal truth: where there’s a dog, there’s dog poo. Yet few topics inspire such a mix of embarrassment and avoidance.

If you’ve ever muttered, “There must be a better way to deal with all this,” while brandishing a poo bag in one hand and a shovel in the other, well, there is.

Although I did not know her personally, I have long admired her from afar as both a writer and an animal lover. Her warmth, humour, and compassion defined not only her work but the way she lived her life. Through her writing and her actions, she championed the belief that animals are sentient beings, deserving of understanding, dignity, and affection.

Most dog owners wouldn’t dream of neglecting their own dental hygiene, yet the thought of brushing a dog’s teeth still brings a mixture of amusement and dread. But canine dental care isn’t a luxury, it’s a cornerstone of long-term health. Poor dental hygiene can lead to gum disease, tooth loss, pain, and even heart and kidney problems. The good news is that most dental issues can be prevented with simple, consistent care.

Cats are masters of disguise when it comes to hiding pain or discomfort. Out here in the countryside, our feline companions may still look spritely as they patrol barns or bask in the sun, but once they reach their senior years, subtle changes often begin to show.

If you own a Labrador Retriever, you’ll know they’re the eternal optimists of the dog world, full of energy, loyalty, and a endless appetite. Unfortunately, their love of food, coupled with a unique genetic makeup and a slower metabolism, make Labradors especially prone to gaining extra weight and even becoming obese. Managing canine obesity isn’t just about appearance; it’s about protecting your dog from serious health risks like arthritis, diabetes, and heart disease.

Raw feeding for cats has become a buzzword in recent years, with more pet owners turning away from processed kibble and tinned foods in search of something more "natural." You may have heard of the BARF diet (Biologically Appropriate Raw Food) for dogs, but is raw food right for your cat? Cats, after all, are obligate carnivores, meaning they require nutrients found only in animal flesh to survive and thrive. Advocates claim raw food can improve coat condition, digestion, and energy, while critics warn of bacteria, unbalanced nutrition, and even serious illness if not done correctly.

When fireworks crackle or storms roll in, many dogs struggle with overwhelming anxiety. The ThunderShirt has become a go-to solution for thousands of owners looking for a safe, drug-free way to help their pets feel secure. But while the concept is simple — a snug wrap applying gentle pressure, like a reassuring hug — how you use it makes all the difference.

Bonfire Night is a magical time for many of us – crackling fires, sparklers in the garden, and fireworks dancing across the autumn sky. But for our pets, it can be one of the most stressful nights of the year. Dogs tremble, cats vanish under beds, and we, their humans, worry about how best to comfort them.

For many of us living in the English countryside (or anywhere with unpredictable weather and noisy celebrations), dogs are more than pets, they’re companions, guardians, and beloved family members. But what happens when the crack of fireworks, a thunderstorm, or even the jingle of car keys sends your otherwise confident companion into a trembling heap?

Few things bring as much joy as watching your dog bound across a meadow, ears flying, tail wagging… until you call them back and they either ignore you or vanish over the next hedgerow. Recall training is the cornerstone of safe off-lead walking, particularly in the English countryside, where livestock, wildlife, and winding footpaths add to the challenge. Mastering recall isn’t just about obedience; it’s about trust, your bond, and your dog’s safety.

There’s a good reason Labradors consistently top the UK’s “most loved dogs” list. Affectionate, loyal, endlessly patient, and a dab paw at retrieving slippers, Labradors have been a part of British family life for generations.