March 22, 2024

One of the many things I enjoy about walking dogs is the interaction the dogs and I have with random people as we walk through the neighborhood or along the Ave in our little downtown. The joy that animals bring to people is fun to see.

When I walk black Labs it often happens that someone will stop and tell me about the Lab they used to own. The expression in their eyes is heartwarming to see as they share memories of their family’s old dog. It can happen with any dog breed, but Labs are a common and faithful pet, I guess.

Teenagers will almost always tell me that my dogs are cute. I hear about family dogs from teens, too.

The social interaction is good for the dogs, also. They light up when someone gives them attention, and their tails wag like crazy. In fact, a significant part of my job is keeping my charges from disturbing those people who walk past without saying hi.

Lucy, pictured above, enjoys a bit of human admiration. She’s a gentle, quiet girl but she gives a sharp bark at other dogs we encounter as we walk along. Just one bark, maybe two. They won’t mistake her for a pushover. But I’ve started walking her with other dogs and am happy to report that she immediately bonds with her leash-mates.

Dogs love walks. Adding social interaction with humans and other dogs makes almost any dog much happier. They’re pack animals, after all. Just like us.