Health / Dogs
‘The lovely thing about dogs is that they appreciate company’
On the morning of Saturday June 23 2018, dogs and their humans will take a step outside the house for a walk with a difference – one that could develop new friendships and support networks, and help to tackle an issue that can affect anyone.
Launched to tackle the UK’s loneliness problem and the impact it has on our wellbeing – Bristol ranks within the top three UK cities for health issues that are linked to isolation – free community event The Great Dog Walk Together is happening in ten locations around the country, including Bristol’s Downs. It’s open to all, whether you own a dog or not, and will support the Great Get Together initiative, which was set up by the Jo Cox Foundation, encouraging people to get together and celebrate what they have in common.
Elaine Roberts (pictured with her dog Rupert) was inspired to act when she saw social isolation was increasing
Event organiser Elaine Brown lives in Bristol, and runs In Your Dog House Gifts as a day job. “We are living in a society where isolation is on the increase,” she told Bristol24/7. “One reason is social media, where so many young people are talking to online friends more than in person, and more people are living on their own nowadays; whether they are part of broken families or have lost a partner.”
is needed now More than ever
As Bristol – and the wider UK – has a significant number of dog owners, Elaine wanted to take advantage of this to create an event that would inspire and welcome those who are affected by isolation. “We hope that the Great Dog Walk Together will encourage people to arrange their own group dog walks via our website and in their community,” Elaine continued. “It is the easiest way to meet other people and have a chat.”
Rupert the dog will be joined by fellow canines for a special walk on June 23
BBC natural history presenter and dog-lover Miranda Krestovnikoff, who lives just outside Bristol, will be participating in the inaugural local walk. “I’m thrilled to be supporting the Great Dog Walk Together project because it’s such a great way for people within their community to meet up, enjoy the outdoors and develop friendships,” she said.
Over the years, numerous connections have been made between improved wellbeing and interaction with animals, especially dogs. “The lovely thing about dogs is that they appreciate company,” Elaine says. “They are a pack animal and do not like being left alone themselves. People can enjoy the company of dogs because this is reciprocated to them.”
The first Great Dog Walk Together takes place on Saturday June 23, leaving Cafe Retreat on The Downs at 10am. For further information, visit www.greatdogwalktogether.com
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