Four months since she arrived here, Lula has settled in very well.  Every morning she leaves her crate and runs upstairs to jump on to the bed and rub noses with me, then she lies on the bed for just a few minutes. Next she scampers downstairs into the back garden to wake all the other dogs in the neighbourhood – and the humans. After this she waits patiently in an armchair for me to get ready and at 8.30 we go for her first – and best – walk of the day, where she plays with other dogs. Near our house is an open space, reasonably secure, which is a magnet for local dogs and their owners. We all arrive at the same time, so that the dogs can play together and get some good exercise. Up to fifteen different dogs usually show up, of various breeds and sizes. They are well socialised and not aggressive – this is a godsend, and I know we are very lucky.

Sometimes Lula likes to play ball, and she retrieves it very well.  But she is often outrun by a smaller dog like the Jack Russell shown in the picture.  The short-legged dogs just seem to run faster for some strange reason!  There is a well-used footpath running through the field and lots of passers-by enjoy the sight of dogs playing.  the best times are when a group of dogs plays chase and they run huge circuits around the open space, accompanied by excited barking from Lula!

After half an hour of sniffing, rolling in foxes’ smells and chasing each other, the dogs have had plenty of exercise and their Mums and Dads need to go to work.  We all go our separate ways to feed our four-legged friends and prepare for the day ahead. The dogs go home to sleep and recharge their batteries ready for their next walk.