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03.04.23 April 03, 2023 Owning a Dog

Are The Nation’s Pets Ruining Their Sex Lives?

Adding a pet into the equation is a big step for any relationship, as this holds a whole new level of responsibility and commitment for both sides. Though parenting a pet is a highly rewarding and entertaining experience for couples, these loveable creatures require a lot of love and attention – alongside caring for both yourself and your partner too! Whether you’ve adopted a cat, a dog, or both, finding the perfect balance of caring for your significant other and your pet can prove difficult for many, and failing to set some much-needed rules and boundaries for your four-legged friend, especially when it comes to sleeping arrangements, can have a significant impact on the happiness of all involved. With this in mind, we conducted a study to find out how the sleeping habits of the nation’s beloved pets are impacting their sex lives, as well as examining how many UK adults admit to putting their love for their pet above their partner. How are the nation’s pets affecting Brits’ intimacy? Upon analysing the data, it’s clear to see that our four-legged friends can act as a hinderance when it comes to having intimate moments with a lover, as four in ten Brits stated that allowing their furry friends to sleep on the bed has affected their sex life in some way (41%). Though it seems that stubborn pets and their preferred place to snooze are not the only ones to blame, as the findings revealed that nearly one million UK adults across the nation (832,557)* admit to using their pet sleeping on the bed as an excuse not to have sex with their partner. Emotions play a big part here too, it seems, as one in nine (11%) confessed that their pet’s sleeping arrangements have affected their sex life as they feel too guilty to move their pet when they find them napping on the bed. In fact, a fifth will only actually have sex if they can actually bring themselves to move their snoozing pet (23%) from the bed. In terms of who’s more likely to move their sleepy pooch in order to make time for some much-needed intimacy, double the number of women (14%) admitted to having less sex because they feel guilty moving their sleeping pet from the bed than men (7%). Though it’s not all bad news for loved-up Brits, as six percent of those surveyed said that their pet sleeping on the bed has encouraged them to get more creative with their sex lives, exploring different places around the home rather than moving the sleeping cat or dog. Belfast residents have their sex lives affected the most by sleeping pets When examining regional-specific data, Belfast was found to have the highest percentage of residents who said their pet sleeping on their bed had affected their sex lives in some way (61%), followed by Glasgow and Manchester (both 55%). Also high up on the list of the cities were Edinburgh (48%) and London (47%), with almost half of residents within each of the cities having had their sex lives affected by their sleepy pets occupying the bed. In contrast to this, Norwich had the lowest percentage of affected residents (17%), followed by Liverpool (26%) and Southampton (28%). UK City % of residents who say their pet sleeping on their bed has affected their sex life in some way Belfast 61% Glasgow 55% Manchester 55% Edinburgh 48% London 47% Bristol 44% Leeds 41% Cardiff 40% Birmingham 33% Nottingham 33% Sheffield 32% Newcastle 30% Southampton 28% Liverpool 26% Norwich 17% We spoke with Dennis Relojo-Howell, Managing Director of Psychreg, who shared his insight as to why we feel so guilty when it comes to our pets, and why it is integral to set boundaries: “Pets hold a special place in our lives due to several reasons. First, they offer companionship and unconditional love – fulfilling our innate need for social connection. This bond can be so strong that it sometimes rivals our relationships with fellow humans. “Second, as a myriad of research has shown, pets help reduce stress and anxiety by offering a soothing presence, which can lead to the release of oxytocin, a hormone associated with social bonding and trust. This creates a positive feedback loop, further strengthening our attachment to them. “Pets can also give us a sense of purpose, responsibility, and structure, contributing positively to our mental well-being. However, the deep bond with pets can sometimes affect our relationships, especially when our partners feel left out or when pets become a source of conflict. “To maintain a healthy balance, it's important to establish clear boundaries with our pets. This can include designated pet-free zones or times when pets are not allowed on furniture or in specific rooms. Ensuring that you prioritise quality time with your partner without the presence of pets is crucial as it helps maintain the emotional connection between you and your partner, reinforcing the importance of your relationship.” Brits are spending more quality time with their pet each day than their other half, study reveals We also quizzed participants on the amount of quality time spent with their pet versus that spent with their lover and found that Brits are spending an average of seven hours quality time per day with their pets, versus six hours with their partner. According to the findings, women are reserving more quality time for their pets (eight hours per day on average), than they are for their other halves (six hours). For men, it was a different story, with six hours of quality time for pets vs. seven hours for partners. It’s no secret that pets love being spoilt and fussed over, but more than half of Brits (56%) admitted to giving their pets treats more frequently than they do their spouse, and a further half are more likely to use pet names for their four-legged friends too (49%). More than a third (35%) also admitted to cuddling their beloved pet more often than they do their partner, and a further quarter (28%) even admitted to saying the words “I love you” more frequently to their furry friends! After a long day at work or on a lazy Sunday afternoon, Brits up and down the country are partial to a quick nap in order to recharge their batteries. However, according to our findings, a quarter (27%) of the nation say they do this more frequently with their pet rather than with their spouse. A further fifth (16%) say they do this equally with both. That said, 43% of UK adults say they’re more inclined to tell their pet off then they are their other half. For just a fifth (18%), it’s the other way around. Activity % of UK adults who do this more with their pet than their partner Give them treats 56% Call them pet names 49% Cuddle them 35% Tell them I love them 28% Take a nap with them 27% Kiss them 26% Buy gifts for them 25% Go out for the day together 22% Go out for food and drinks 18% Buy them clothes 15% And they called it puppy love: Women are more likely to pick their pet over their partner As part of our study, we also wanted to uncover whether Brits would be more inclined to pick either their partner or their pet if forced to do so. Interestingly, the findings revealed that the UK is a most certainly a nation of loyal pet lovers, with more than one in six UK adults having opted for their pets rather than their partners if forced to choose between the two (16%). A fifth of those surveyed admitted they’d find it hard to pick between the two (21%), whilst almost one in ten said they’d rather go it alone and opt for neither (9%). The data highlighted that women are more likely to pick their pet over their partner (18% vs.12% of men). Similarly, more women said they’d struggle to make the decision between their partner and their pet (24% vs, 17% of men). The cities of Norwich and Sheffield had the highest percentage of residents who say they’d pick their pet over their partner if asked to decide (23%), while those living in Manchester would be more likely to leave both their pet and partner behind and go it alone (24%). Edinburgh was seen to have the highest percentage of respondents who would pick their partner over their pet if asked to make the choice (67%). How to create all-important boundaries and encourage pets to sleep in their own space As much as we adore our pets, setting boundaries and sticking to them is an essential part of being a responsible pet owner. And whilst it’s natural to want to ensure your pet feels both loved and appreciated, it’s integral we’re showing our partners how much we love and cherish them too. If you are able to set clear boundaries with your pet in the bedroom, namely in regard to where your pet goes to sleep at night, this can be hugely beneficial to the relationship you have with your other half, especially when it comes to maintaining a healthy level of intimacy. Following these rules may help to encourage your pet to sleep in their own space, and hopefully stay there: Firstly, create a cosy place for them to sleep that they know belongs to them. This is followed by setting and practising clear commands such as ‘go to bed’ or ‘on your bed’ that you say each night at bedtime can help both of you to get into a good routine. When using the command, show your pet what you would like them to do and where you would like them to go. Be consistent and ensure you’re rewarding them when they do follow your lead here. And, if your dog leaves their bed during the night, ask them to get back onto their bed and offer a treat. If they wake again, do not give them a treat, simply use the command and ask them to get onto their bed.   Conclusion At Lords and Labradors, we pride ourselves on putting your pet's wellbeing first. This includes setting healthy boundaries in their home to ensure that your fluffy friends are properly trained and living the best quality of life. However, this is not to forget that your own personal relationships should not have to experience strain due to your pet’s sleeping habits. After all, a happy home is the best environment for your pooch to reside in. We hope that this study will prompt you to practice healthy boundaries with your pets, potentially by using some of the tips that are on offer in this article. Why not share some of your pet’s sleeping areas with us on Twitter? Data Sources:  Survey of 2,000 UK adults conducted in March 2023 * Almost 1million pet owners determined by - 52% of UK adults own a pet, according to PDSA data in 2022 52 % of UK adult population (53,369,083) = 27,751,923.16 3% of pet owners who said they use pet as excuse not to have sex. So 3% of 27,751,923.16 = 832,557

By Megan Willis

Adding a pet into the equation is a big step for any relationship, as this holds a whole new level of responsibility and commitment for both sides.

Though parenting a pet is a highly rewarding and entertaining experience for couples, these loveable creatures require a lot of love and attention – alongside caring for both yourself and your partner too!

Whether you’ve adopted a cat, a dog, or both, finding the perfect balance of caring for your significant other and your pet can prove difficult for many, and failing to set some much-needed rules and boundaries for your four-legged friend, especially when it comes to sleeping arrangements, can have a significant impact on the happiness of all involved.

With this in mind, we conducted a study to find out how the sleeping habits of the nation’s beloved pets are impacting their sex lives, as well as examining how many UK adults admit to putting their love for their pet above their partner.

How are the nation’s pets affecting Brits’ intimacy?

Woman sat with her arms crossed on the bed with a man laid down behind her

Upon analysing the data, it’s clear to see that our four-legged friends can act as a hinderance when it comes to having intimate moments with a lover, as four in ten Brits stated that allowing their furry friends to sleep on the bed has affected their sex life in some way (41%).

Though it seems that stubborn pets and their preferred place to snooze are not the only ones to blame, as the findings revealed that nearly one million UK adults across the nation (832,557)* admit to using their pet sleeping on the bed as an excuse not to have sex with their partner.

Emotions play a big part here too, it seems, as one in nine (11%) confessed that their pet’s sleeping arrangements have affected their sex life as they feel too guilty to move their pet when they find them napping on the bed. In fact, a fifth will only actually have sex if they can actually bring themselves to move their snoozing pet (23%) from the bed.

In terms of who’s more likely to move their sleepy pooch in order to make time for some much-needed intimacy, double the number of women (14%) admitted to having less sex because they feel guilty moving their sleeping pet from the bed than men (7%).

Though it’s not all bad news for loved-up Brits, as six percent of those surveyed said that their pet sleeping on the bed has encouraged them to get more creative with their sex lives, exploring different places around the home rather than moving the sleeping cat or dog.

Belfast residents have their sex lives affected the most by sleeping pets

Golden retriever laid on the bed with a grey blanket over its head, sticking its tongue out

When examining regional-specific data, Belfast was found to have the highest percentage of residents who said their pet sleeping on their bed had affected their sex lives in some way (61%), followed by Glasgow and Manchester (both 55%).

Also high up on the list of the cities were Edinburgh (48%) and London (47%), with almost half of residents within each of the cities having had their sex lives affected by their sleepy pets occupying the bed.

In contrast to this, Norwich had the lowest percentage of affected residents (17%), followed by Liverpool (26%) and Southampton (28%).

UK City	% of residents who say their pet sleeping on their bed has affected their sex life in some way
Belfast	61%
Glasgow	55%
Manchester	55%
Edinburgh	48%
London	47%
Bristol	44%
Leeds	41%
Cardiff	40%
Birmingham	33%
Nottingham	33%
Sheffield	32%
Newcastle	30%
Southampton	28%
Liverpool	26%
Norwich	17%

We spoke with Dennis Relojo-Howell, Managing Director of Psychreg, who shared his insight as to why we feel so guilty when it comes to our pets, and why it is integral to set boundaries:

“Pets hold a special place in our lives due to several reasons. First, they offer companionship and unconditional love – fulfilling our innate need for social connection. This bond can be so strong that it sometimes rivals our relationships with fellow humans.

“Second, as a myriad of research has shown, pets help reduce stress and anxiety by offering a soothing presence, which can lead to the release of oxytocin, a hormone associated with social bonding and trust. This creates a positive feedback loop, further strengthening our attachment to them.

“Pets can also give us a sense of purpose, responsibility, and structure, contributing positively to our mental well-being. However, the deep bond with pets can sometimes affect our relationships, especially when our partners feel left out or when pets become a source of conflict.

“To maintain a healthy balance, it's important to establish clear boundaries with our pets. This can include designated pet-free zones or times when pets are not allowed on furniture or in specific rooms. Ensuring that you prioritise quality time with your partner without the presence of pets is crucial as it helps maintain the emotional connection between you and your partner, reinforcing the importance of your relationship.”

Brits are spending more quality time with their pet each day than their other half, study reveals

We also quizzed participants on the amount of quality time spent with their pet versus that spent with their lover and found that Brits are spending an average of seven hours quality time per day with their pets, versus six hours with their partner.

According to the findings, women are reserving more quality time for their pets (eight hours per day on average), than they are for their other halves (six hours). For men, it was a different story, with six hours of quality time for pets vs. seven hours for partners.

It’s no secret that pets love being spoilt and fussed over, but more than half of Brits (56%) admitted to giving their pets treats more frequently than they do their spouse, and a further half are more likely to use pet names for their four-legged friends too (49%).

More than a third (35%) also admitted to cuddling their beloved pet more often than they do their partner, and a further quarter (28%) even admitted to saying the words “I love you” more frequently to their furry friends!

After a long day at work or on a lazy Sunday afternoon, Brits up and down the country are partial to a quick nap in order to recharge their batteries. However, according to our findings, a quarter (27%) of the nation say they do this more frequently with their pet rather than with their spouse. A further fifth (16%) say they do this equally with both.

That said, 43% of UK adults say they’re more inclined to tell their pet off then they are their other half. For just a fifth (18%), it’s the other way around.

Activity	% of UK adults who do this more with their pet than their partner
Give them treats	56%
Call them pet names	49%
Cuddle them	35%
Tell them I love them	28%
Take a nap with them	27%
Kiss them	26%
Buy gifts for them	25%
Go out for the day together	22%
Go out for food and drinks	18%
Buy them clothes	15%

And they called it puppy love: Women are more likely to pick their pet over their partner

Woman and a brown dog sleeping together on a bed

As part of our study, we also wanted to uncover whether Brits would be more inclined to pick either their partner or their pet if forced to do so.

Interestingly, the findings revealed that the UK is a most certainly a nation of loyal pet lovers, with more than one in six UK adults having opted for their pets rather than their partners if forced to choose between the two (16%).

A fifth of those surveyed admitted they’d find it hard to pick between the two (21%), whilst almost one in ten said they’d rather go it alone and opt for neither (9%).

The data highlighted that women are more likely to pick their pet over their partner (18% vs.12% of men). Similarly, more women said they’d struggle to make the decision between their partner and their pet (24% vs, 17% of men).

The cities of Norwich and Sheffield had the highest percentage of residents who say they’d pick their pet over their partner if asked to decide (23%), while those living in Manchester would be more likely to leave both their pet and partner behind and go it alone (24%). Edinburgh was seen to have the highest percentage of respondents who would pick their partner over their pet if asked to make the choice (67%).

How to create all-important boundaries and encourage pets to sleep in their own space

Brown dog laid on a grey bed with striped bedding

As much as we adore our pets, setting boundaries and sticking to them is an essential part of being a responsible pet owner. And whilst it’s natural to want to ensure your pet feels both loved and appreciated, it’s integral we’re showing our partners how much we love and cherish them too.

If you are able to set clear boundaries with your pet in the bedroom, namely in regard to where your pet goes to sleep at night, this can be hugely beneficial to the relationship you have with your other half, especially when it comes to maintaining a healthy level of intimacy.

Following these rules may help to encourage your pet to sleep in their own space, and hopefully stay there:

Firstly, create a cosy place for them to sleep that they know belongs to them.
This is followed by setting and practising clear commands such as ‘go to bed’ or ‘on your bed’ that you say each night at bedtime can help both of you to get into a good routine.
When using the command, show your pet what you would like them to do and where you would like them to go.
Be consistent and ensure you’re rewarding them when they do follow your lead here.
And, if your dog leaves their bed during the night, ask them to get back onto their bed and offer a treat.
If they wake again, do not give them a treat, simply use the command and ask them to get onto their bed.

Conclusion

At Lords and Labradors, we pride ourselves on putting your pet's wellbeing first. This includes setting healthy boundaries in their home to ensure that your fluffy friends are properly trained and living the best quality of life.

However, this is not to forget that your own personal relationships should not have to experience strain due to your pet’s sleeping habits. After all, a happy home is the best environment for your pooch to reside in.

We hope that this study will prompt you to practice healthy boundaries with your pets, potentially by using some of the tips that are on offer in this article. Why not share some of your pet’s sleeping areas with us on Twitter?

Data Sources: 

Survey of 2,000 UK adults conducted in March 2023
* Almost 1million pet owners determined by -
52% of UK adults own a pet, according to PDSA data in 2022
52 % of UK adult population (53,369,083) = 27,751,923.16
3% of pet owners who said they use pet as excuse not to have sex. So 3% of 27,751,923.16 = 832,557

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31.10.23 October 31, 2023 Owning a Dog

Our Guide To Taking Your Dog On The Train For The First Time

For many dog owners, the thought of taking their furry companions on a train journey for the first time can be both exciting and nerve-wracking. Questions like "Are dogs allowed on trains?" and "Can you take dogs on the Eurostar?" often arise. Fortunately, with the right knowledge and preparation, traveling with your dog on a train can be a smooth and enjoyable experience. In this comprehensive guide, we will address all your concerns and provide valuable insights on how to make your dog's first train journey a pleasant one. Are Dogs Allowed on Trains? Yes, dogs are generally allowed on trains, but specific regulations and policies can vary between train operators and regions. To ensure a smooth journey, it's crucial to research the dog-friendly policies of the train service you plan to use. Most train services allow dogs to travel with their owners, but there are conditions you should be aware of, such as size restrictions, the need for a lead and, in some cases, the requirement for a muzzle. Can Dogs Go On Trains In The UK? Traveling with your canine companion on trains in the United Kingdom is a common practice, and train operators across the country have established guidelines to make this experience safe and enjoyable for both pets and passengers. Here, we will provide you with information based on the guidance from the official National Rail website. National Rail has laid out a comprehensive pet policy to clarify the rules and requirements for traveling with dogs and other pets on trains across the UK. Below are some key points from their policy: Size Restrictions: National Rail's pet policy does not specify a weight limit for dogs, but it is essential to ensure your dog is well-behaved and can fit comfortably in the space provided without causing inconvenience to other passengers. Lead Requirements: While on the train, your dog should be kept on a lead or harness, or in some cases in a pet carrier - smaller dogs may feel more comfortable in a dog carrier. Carriage Restrictions: Dogs are typically allowed in the passenger carriages, but it is advisable to check with your specific train service for designated areas or carriages for travellers with pets. Reservations: Making a reservation is strongly recommended when traveling with your dog, as it ensures you have sufficient space and reduces potential inconveniences to other passengers. Cleaning Up: Responsible pet owners should carry poop bags to clean up after their dogs. This ensures that the train remains clean and hygienic for all passengers. Identification and Vaccination Documents: While it is not a strict requirement on all train services, it's a good practice to carry identification and vaccination documents for your dog. This can be especially important if your dog were to become lost during your journey. Make sure the name and address on both their microchip and ID tag on their collar is up to date. Behaviour and Consideration: Be considerate of your fellow passengers. Ensure your dog remains well-behaved, quiet, and does not cause any disturbances during the journey. It's important to note that National Rail's pet policy is a guideline for the entire UK rail network, but there may be some variations depending on the train operator or specific services. Therefore, it is advisable to check with the train service you plan to use to ensure you comply with their individual pet policy. Can Dogs Go On Eurostar Trains? Dogs can only go on certain Eurostar train routes, but there are guidelines you must follow. Eurostar allows small dogs to travel with their owners under specific conditions. Make sure to check the Eurostar website for the most up-to-date information on their pet policy. Taking Your Dog on the Train for the First Time Now that you know dogs are generally welcome on trains, let's explore some essential tips to ensure a stress-free and comfortable journey for both you and your canine companion. 1. Check the Train Service's Pet Policy Before embarking on your journey, visit the official website of the train service you plan to use. Familiarise yourself with their specific pet policy, including size restrictions, lead and muzzle requirements, and any additional charges. 2. Make a Reservation When traveling with your dog on a train, it's advisable to make a reservation. This helps ensure there is enough space for both you and your furry friend. Inform the train operator that you'll be traveling with a dog when booking your ticket. 3. Prepare Your Dog It's essential to prepare your dog for the train journey. Introduce your pet to the sights and sounds of the train station and use positive reinforcement to create a calm and stress-free atmosphere. Bring your dog's favourite toys and a comfortable blanket for added comfort. 4.Carry Essential Supplies Pack the following essentials for your dog's journey: Water and a portable bowl Dog food and treats Poop bags for clean-up Identification and vaccination documents First-aid kit 5. Choose the Right Seat Select a seat that's more spacious and comfortable for both you and your dog. Many train services have designated areas for passengers with pets, so inquire about these options when making your reservation. 6. Be Considerate of Other Passengers Remember that not everyone on the train may be as fond of dogs as you are. Keep your dog on a lead, and ensure they are well-behaved throughout the journey. Be respectful of other passengers by avoiding excessive barking or any disturbances. Traveling with your dog on a train for the first time can be a wonderful experience when approached with proper planning and knowledge. Dogs are generally allowed on trains, and the key to a successful journey lies in understanding and adhering to the specific pet policies of the train service you choose. Prepare your dog, carry essential supplies, and be considerate of other passengers to ensure a smooth and enjoyable trip for both you and your furry friend. With the right preparation, your dog can become the perfect travel companion on the rails.

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10.10.23 October 10, 2023 Health

Toxic Foods Your Dog Should AVOID This Halloween

Spooky season is here! And households all over the nation will likely find themselves surrounded by a whole host of sweet treats and snacks, ready for trick-or-treaters to arrive at the door. It seems pup owners are certainly preparing to protect their four-legged friends from the food-heavy holiday seasons ahead, with 2,400 Google searches for ‘what can’t dogs eat’ in the past month. With this in mind, Johanna Buitelaar-Warden, Founder of Lords and Labradors has highlighted four toxic foods that you should never give to your dog and how to keep your pets away from potentially harmful snacks Can Dogs Eat Pumpkin? In short, yes, your dog can eat pumpkin flesh. Pumpkins are found in a lot of dog food and may even be an ingredient in the meals they already eat. However, to stay safe, avoid feeding your pooch the prickly stalk – whilst this is not toxic, it may cause irritation in your dog's mouth and harm once ingested. It’s also important to remove the pumpkin skin before serving your dog up some pumpkin, as this can act as a choking hazard. If ingested, this can be a serious risk of gut obstruction. Can Dogs Eat Chocolate? Be aware, that chocolate is notoriously dangerous for dogs! This is because chocolate contains caffeine and theobromine, which even in small doses can provide serious problems for your dog. Issues can range from mild stomach upsets, to more serious complications like seizures and cardiac arrests. To ensure your pet remains safe and healthy, keeping chocolate treats away from your dog is essential to their wellbeing – whether you have a little puppy, or a full-grown adult dog. Can Dogs Eat Sweets? From sugar-free chewy fangs to jelly eyeballs, artificial sweeteners can be even more detrimental to your dog’s health than sugar. These types of sweet treats commonly include an ingredient called Xylitol – which is highly forbidden for dogs – as this can potentially result in toxicity, which can set in as early as 30 minutes after ingestion. Complications from Xylitol can pose a danger to your dog’s blood sugar levels and liver function. Can Dogs Eat Popcorn Or Crisps? Just like humans, dogs can handle a certain amount of salt in their daily diet. However, high levels of this, found in snacks like popcorn and crisps, can cause complications such as sodium or ion poisoning for your four-legged friend. This can cause a whole host of complications, ranging from a high fever and vomiting to excessive thirst, seizures and kidney damage. Can Dogs Eat Raisins Or Grapes? Although households that hand out fruit on Halloween may have your children’s best interests in mind, healthier snacks like raisins, grapes and sultanas can make your dog seriously poorly if consumed. They can cause gut problems in pups, and in some cases, kidney damage. The toxic dose varies from dog to dog but can be very little in some cases – meaning that they will only have to eat a small portion to become seriously unwell. Are puppies at a higher risk? Whilst it’s important to keep dogs of all ages away from toxic foods like chocolate, high-salt snacks, and sugar-free alternatives, this is especially important for puppies. Puppy food contains a balance of proteins, enzymes and other nutrients that are designed especially for their health and growth – therefore, overindulging or nibbling on the wrong food item can cause both immediate, and long-term complications for your fur baby. When rich or fatty foods are consumed as a puppy, the risk of diseases such as pancreatis increases. Essentially, this can lead to a lifetime of gut sensitivity for your precious pooch. And extra calories outside of a healthy balanced diet may lead to obesity, contributing to a shorter lifespan as an adult. Tricks To Keep Your Dogs Away From Poisonous Food Distance your pet from trick-or-treaters: it’s a good idea to keep your dog in another part of the house where they will be safe when trick-or-treaters come knocking. Provide their own special treats to reduce temptation: giving your pet some tasty, dog-friendly treats, such as Barking Bakery’s Doggy Popcorn or Denzel’s Toffee Apple Soft Sticks is a great substitute for toxic human sweets and chocolate. Have a plan for storing sweets: It’s important to have a plan for where the sweets will be stored, as leaving these on floors, tables, or any other easy-reachable surface becomes a hazard for your dog. Ensure household members, and visitors, are aware: make sure to review the list of toxic foods with everyone in your household to ensure your pet is as safe as possible – and don’t forget to inform potential guests who may want to give your pooch a tasty treat! If the worst-case scenario happens and you think your dog may have eaten something harmful, it’s important to treat this as an emergency and contact your local veterinarian straight away. Keep monitoring your pooch just in case they display any unusual behaviour, such as: vomiting, lethargy, loss of coordination, excessive thirst, rapid heartbeat or seizures. Want to treat your dog to some terrifically tasty treats which they can eat this Halloween, why not check out our Halloween collection? It's filled with spook-tacular goodies for them to enjoy

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09.10.23 October 09, 2023 Owning a Dog

10 Dog Friendly National Trusts Near You

For dog owners, there's nothing quite like exploring the great outdoors with your furry companion. Fortunately, the National Trust, renowned for preserving and protecting some of the UK's most stunning natural and historical sites, offers numerous dog-friendly options. In this blog post, we'll guide you through the best dog-friendly National Trust properties and sites near you, ensuring both you and your four-legged friend can enjoy a memorable day out. The National Trust's Commitment to Dog-Friendly Policies The National Trust has a strong commitment to welcoming dogs and their owners. Many of their properties, gardens, and estates are dog-friendly, as long as canine code is followed. They teamed up with one of favourite food brands, Forthglade, to create the canine code; it has 4 key rules. Keep them close - use a short lead when walking your dog to keep them from disturbing ground-nesting birds and farm animal Pick up poo - make sure to have some poo bags to hand to clean up after your dog Watch the signs - make sure to read any signage to double check where you're walking is dog friendly, some areas are only dog friendly at certain times of year Stay on the ball - as much as we love our four-legged friends, they can be scary to some people. We advise making sure they don't run up to people so that everyone can enjoy their walks 10 Dog-Friendly National Trust Properties 1. Lyme Park, Cheshire Lyme Park is a dog-friendly National Trust property nestled in the heart of Cheshire. With over 1,400 acres of parkland and woodland to explore, your dog will have a field day here. The sweeping vistas and stunning mansion make this a great place for both human and canine history buffs. 2. Trelissick, Cornwall Trelissick, located near Truro in Cornwall, offers a beautiful garden and estate that welcomes dogs. Meander through the gardens and woodlands while taking in breathtaking views of the Fal River. Enjoy a short stroll across the parkland that overlooks the estuary and sea with views as far as your eye can see. Or, take a longer a trek down through the trees to Roundwood Quay. 3. Petworth House and Park, West Sussex In the picturesque county of West Sussex, you'll find Petworth House and Park. Dogs on leads are welcome in the parkland surrounding the grand house, making it a delightful destination for a dog walk, you may even spot some deer! 4. Goddards' Garden, Yorkshire If you're looking for a serene garden setting to explore with your dog, Goddards Garden in North Yorkshire is an excellent choice. The garden's tranquil atmosphere, charming pergolas, and colourful flowerbeds create a picturesque backdrop for your leisurely stroll with your furry friend. You can both enjoy the scent of blooming flowers and the calming sound of birdsong as you wander through this hidden gem. 5. Sissinghurst Castle Garden, Kent Sissinghurst Castle Garden in Kent is famous for its stunning design and vibrant flora. Dog owners will be pleased to know that dogs on leads are welcome in the garden, making it a fantastic place for a leisurely stroll. While the options listed above are excellent, there are many more dog-friendly National Trust properties across the UK. Some other noteworthy mentions include: Clumber Park, Nottinghamshire Stowe, Buckinghamshire Fountains Abbey and Studley Royal Water Garden, North Yorkshire Mount Stewart, County Down Stackpole, Pembrokeshire Finding Dog-Friendly National Trusts Near You To find dog-friendly National Trust properties near you, visit the official National Trust website and use their interactive map. You can filter your search to display only dog-friendly sites, making the planning process a breeze. Forthglade x National Trust Dog Food The National Trust and Forthglade have co-branded range of gourmet dinners, the purchase of each recipe goes towards supporting the National Trust's amazing work in caring for many of the beautiful places we and our four-legged friends love to explore, including 780 miles of coastline, forests, woods, fens, beaches, historic houses, gardens, pubs & more! We stock some of the range here at L&L and our office dogs can confirm how much they love the range! The National Trust offers a wealth of dog-friendly options for both local and visiting dog owners. With their commitment to preserving natural beauty and historical significance, you can explore the UK's cultural heritage with your canine companion by your side. Remember to check specific property guidelines and respect the rules to ensure a pleasant experience for all visitors. So, whether you're seeking historic houses, picturesque gardens, or vast landscapes, there's a dog-friendly National Trust site near you waiting to be discovered. Enjoy your adventures with your furry friend!

By Megan Willis
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09.10.23 October 09, 2023 Owning a Dog

8 Tips For Walking Your Dog At Night Safely

As the seasons change and we find ourselves in the midst of autumn and approaching winter, the days grow shorter, and darkness descends upon us earlier. For dog owners, this shift in daylight hours can present a challenge when it comes to walking our furry companions. Walking your dog at night during these darker months can still be a delightful experience, offering tranquility and cooler temperatures, but it also brings its own unique set of challenges. To ensure a safe and enjoyable night walk with your dog as we enter the autumn and winter seasons, it's crucial to be well-prepared and take the necessary precautions, including the use of reflective gear for dog walking. In this article, we will provide you with 8 expert tips to help you navigate the changing seasons and walk your dog safely at night. 1. Invest in Reflective Gear Investing in reflective gear for dog walking is essential for night-time outings. Outfit your dog with a reflective collar, lead, or harness to make them more visible to passing vehicles. We recommend the Zoon flash and go rechargeable collar, it comes in multiple sizes and is super adjustable so you’re sure to get the right fit. Similarly, consider wearing reflective clothing or accessories yourself to enhance your visibility to others. [product] 2. Stay on Familiar Paths Walking your dog at night is not the best time to explore new and unfamiliar paths. Stick to routes that you and your dog are well-acquainted with to reduce the risk of stumbling or getting lost. 3. Keep Your Dog On The Lead Even if your dog is well-behaved off-lead during daytime walks, it's advisable to keep them on the lead at night. This provides better control and prevents them from wandering into potential dangers, like roads or other animals. 4. Choose Well-Lit Areas Opt for well-lit routes whenever possible. Walking in areas with streetlights or well-illuminated paths can significantly enhance safety during your night-time dog walks. 5. Carry Essentials Pack essentials such as a torch, poo bags, and a fully charged phone with emergency numbers programmed in. These items will prove invaluable if you encounter any unexpected situations.[product] 6. Train Your Dog Before embarking on night walks, ensure your dog is well-trained and responsive to commands like "stop," "stay," and "come." A well-trained dog is easier to manage in low-light conditions. 7. Stay Aware Maintain situational awareness throughout your walk. Keep an eye out for potential hazards, such as uneven paths, potholes, or other pedestrians. Additionally, be cautious of wildlife that may be more active at night. 8. Be Prepared for Weather Changes Weather conditions can change rapidly at night, so check the forecast before heading out and dress appropriately. Bring extra layers, an umbrella, or rain gear as needed to ensure both you and your dog stay comfortable. Walking your dog at night can be a wonderful experience, provided you prioritise safety and preparedness. By following these 8 expert tips and using reflective gear for dog walking, you can enjoy the benefits of night-time dog walks while minimising the risks. Remember that your safety and the safety of your canine companion should always come first, so take every precaution to ensure a safe and enjoyable night walk.

By Megan Willis
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