I meet some really nice people when I'm out with my pack. They talk about their favourite walks and holidays they've taken with their dogs. They seldom complain about the weather.
I met an elderly lady last week walking through a massive storm.
'It's not the best day for walking," I remarked.
"No, but it's wonderful to be outside and my dog loves it regardless."
That's the sort off positive outlook I've come to expect.
Horsey people are the same. I see them training in all kinds of weather and the only thing they talk about is their horse's progress never how horrible the conditions are.
I've never heard a dog walker say they're having a bad day. Obviously they must now and again but if they do they don't dwell on it. Another great thing about animal lovers is the complete disregard for celebrity.
I have dozens of ladies in my classes and rarely hear any idle 'celebrity' chitchat. They never seem to know who's in or out of the jungle and care even less. They don't appear to gossip much about anyone-which is nice.
People turn up for training with all sorts of injuries and illness eager to work their dogs and be part of a like-minded group. It's amazing the ailments they brush off to be out with their dogs.
There's no doubt animals are very therapeutic in our high-speed, neurotic, 'celebrity' (stay young and beautiful) culture. Dogs don't care what you earn or where you live.
If you want evidence check out those dogs trotting faithfully along with homeless people. Some of the most sociable and balanced dogs I ever met were living on the streets with the homeless.
Maybe it's our need to care for something more than ourselves and animals are so wonderfully non-judgemental. They live in the moment and so should we.
For more stories, training tips and to enrol on our new puppy class which starts on Tuesday July 12th go to my website.
Photo: Mrs B ignores the cold when she's with her dogs.
