This small step was really life enhancing. I was enjoying my walking and decided to get a dog. Having had dogs when I was younger, I knew they were a big commitment and knew what to expect. I got a rescue dog, an adult border collie, called Jack. Now, I got up an hour earlier every morning to walk him a few miles before work and then again in the evening.
There is a small hill near home and in those early morning hours we met members of a whole new dog-walking community including neighbours I didn’t know. This became a regular part of my social life. Often some of us would walk along the hill together.
Walking Jack opened up a whole new world to me. And that’s aside from the benefits of his companionship…..and coming home and there’s always someone pleased to see you. Sadly, Jack is no longer with us but I still do borrow a dog for a walk.
It might not be for everyone, but if you like dogs and don’t have one, then you might like to walk with a friend who does have a dog.
There are pet share organisations too such as https://shareyourpet.co.uk/ and https://www.borrowmydoggy.com/
Not forgetting the Cinnamon Trust, who need volunteers across the UK to walk dogs for people who are in hospital or elderly and can no longer walk their pet. https://cinnamon.org.uk/home/
Courage doesn't mean you don't get afraid. Courage means you don't let fear stop you