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.

Ah, autumn in the countryside. Crisp air, golden leaves, early sunsets, and unfortunately, a rising tide of ticks. As the temperature drops and the undergrowth thickens with fallen leaves, tick activity in the UK peaks, putting our furry companions at increased risk of bites, infection, and long-term illness.

Planning a trip overseas in 2026? If your luggage has paws and whiskers, the vet visit could soon feel more like passport control. With updated UK and EU pet travel rules, especially the UK’s shift to Animal Health Certificates (AHCs) and separate arrangements for Northern Ireland, it’s vital to go into the clinic appointment fully prepared.

There’s something magical about autumn in the Cotswolds: the crunch of leaves underfoot, the rich smell of damp earth, and the sight of golden light filtering through turning trees. For those of us living in or near Cirencester, this is arguably the best season for walking our dogs. Whether you’ve got a lively spaniel who loves bounding through leaves or a more sedate Labrador who prefers a steady stroll, Cirencester and its surroundings offer some truly wonderful walks for dogs and their humans alike.

Bred to track and hold lions at bay in Southern Africa, Rhodesian Ridgebacks bring a noble mix of courage, independence, and quiet devotion. While they no longer serve as big-game hunters, these powerful dogs are at their best in wide open spaces with strong leadership and a job to do, even if it’s just patrolling the garden.

Why Springer Spaniels Are the Countryside's Ultimate Companion

Whether they’re bounding beside us on walks or curled up purring by the fire, our pets become so much more than just animals. They are companions, confidants, and if we're honest, close family. When they leave us, the pain can be just as deep as losing a human loved one, and yet, many feel unprepared for the grief that follows.

It’s a beautiful day. Your dog is wagging with excitement. You reach a wide, open path, and unclip the lead.

There’s a dream home up for grabs in the Cotswolds this May. Thanks Omaze, who is raising money for Guide Dogs UK. But while the headlines talk ‘views and vaulted ceilings’, we can’t help but wonder: who’s looking after the cat?