From Farm Girl to Dog Walker: A Life with Animals I’ve always felt most at home in the company of animals. Growing up on a small farm in the southwest of Ireland, they were my whole world. Hens clucked around my feet, the cats lounging in the sum as if they owned the place, cows mooed impatiently for their feed, and the dogs were my ever-loyal companions. I spent most of my childhood knee-deep in mud, hay in my hair, and usually chatting away to the horses as if they could understand every word. (To this day, I swear we had a telepathic connection.) My happiest moments were in the stables, surrounded by the soft sounds of horses munching on hay, the occasional snort, and the warmth of their breath on my hands. The animals were my best friends—well, most of them. The geese, on the other hand, were the absolute bane of my existence. Evil little creatures with beady eyes and bad attitudes! One day, they trapped me at the far end of the paddock, honking like demons while I screamed for anyone to come help me. I’ll never forget the terror. Mornings on the farm were magical. I’d wake up early to check if the hens had laid any eggs, carefully collecting them like precious treasures. Then it was off to milk the cow, I’d carry a jug of fresh milk into the kitchen, placing it on the table. Farm life wasn’t just about the fun bits, though. There were spuds to plant where we had to prepare the soil, and later, backbreaking hours spent digging them up. Making bales of hay and stacking them in the barn was a full-body workout before I even knew what a workout was. It was hard graft, but I loved it. There was something deeply satisfying about working alongside nature, feeling the earth beneath my hands, and knowing that everything had a purpose. Then, at 18, life took a turn—I moved to the city. To say it was a shock would be putting it mildly. The fields and open spaces were replaced with concrete and traffic. No morning egg collection, no cows waiting to be milked, and worst of all—no animals to talk to. I tried to adjust, but I always felt like something was missing. Eventually, I moved to the UK, working in London for a few years before settling in the north of England in 2003. Life moved on—marriage, three kids, and a job that did nothing for my soul. Then came the moment I couldn’t ignore any longer. My dad was diagnosed with lung cancer, and everything shifted. Watching him go through that battle, seeing how fragile life really is, made me rethink everything. It put things into perspective in a way nothing else could. Working a 9 to 5 job, counting down the hours, felt like an insult to the time we’re given. I knew I needed a change—something that made me feel again. And that’s when it hit me. Animals. Dogs. The one thing that had always brought me joy. So, I took the leap into dog walking. Some days are tough. Walking for hours in sideways rain, mud creeping into places mud shouldn’t be, and watching a dog roll gleefully in something foul just as I’m about to hand them back to their owner. But then there are the moments that make it all worth it—seeing a nervous dog grow in confidence, watching them run full tilt with their best mates, the way they look at me like I’m the best part of their day. And, honestly, they’re the best part of mine. When I’m out there, surrounded by dogs, feeling the wind in my face and the earth beneath my feet, I’m that little girl on the farm all over again. The happiness I felt back then, knee-high in mud, surrounded by animals, is the same happiness I feel now. Because at the end of the day, it’s simple—I was always meant to be with animals. And I wouldn’t change it for the world. 🐾

Welcoming Lauren 🐾

Welcome to Muddy Paws Adventures, where we understand the importance of a safe and enjoyable walking experience for your furry companions. As dog lovers and enthusiasts, we know that every walk is an opportunity for adventure and connection. In this informative blog post, we'll explore why it's crucial to check in on your dog during walks and what signs to look out for in dog-to-dog body language. Why Check In? When out walking with your dog, it's essential to regularly check in on their well-being and comfort level. Dogs communicate primarily through body language, and understanding their signals can help prevent conflicts and ensure a positive experience for all. Signs to Look Out For: 1. Tail Wagging: While tail wagging is often associated with friendliness, it's essential to consider the context and speed of the wag. A loose, broad wag typically indicates a friendly demeanor, while a stiff or fast wag may signal excitement or potential aggression. 2. Body Posture: Pay attention to your dog's body posture. A relaxed, loose body with a slightly wagging tail signifies comfort and confidence. Conversely, a tense body with raised hackles or a lowered head may indicate fear or aggression. 3. Ear Position: Dogs' ears are incredibly expressive. Forward-facing ears usually indicate attentiveness or curiosity, while flattened ears suggest fear or submission. 4. Eye Contact: Gentle, soft eye contact often indicates trust and affection, while prolonged staring or a hard stare can be perceived as a challenge or threat. 5. Vocalisations : Listen to your dog's vocalisations. Barking, growling, whining, or whimpering can convey various emotions, from excitement to discomfort or fear. 6. Sniffing Behaviour: Allow your dog time to sniff and explore their surroundings. Sniffing is a natural behaviour that provides mental stimulation and helps dogs gather information about their environment and other dogs. Regularly checking in on your dog's body language during walks is essential for ensuring their comfort and safety, as well as promoting positive interactions with other dogs. By understanding the signs of dog-to-dog communication, you can prevent conflicts and foster a more enjoyable walking experience for both you and your furry friend. At Muddy Paws Adventures, we prioritise the well-being of your dogs and strive to create a safe and enriching environment for every walk. Happy walking! 🐾 

Professional Dog Walker Etiquette

**Helping Your Furry Friend Through Fireworks: Tips for a Peaceful Pooch** Fireworks season can be a challenging time for our canine companions. The loud noises and bright lights can trigger anxiety and fear in many dogs. As a responsible dog owner, we want to offer you some valuable tips to help your dog stay calm and comfortable during fireworks. **1. Create a Safe Haven** Designate a safe space in your home where your dog can retreat to when the fireworks begin. This area should be cozy and familiar, with their favourite bed and toys. It can be a crate, a quiet room, or even a blanket fort. The idea is to provide them with a comforting environment to escape the noise. **2. Keep Your Dog Indoors** Whenever possible, keep your dog indoors during fireworks displays. Close all windows and curtains to help muffle the sound and reduce the flashes of light. Make sure doors and gates are securely closed to prevent your pet from escaping out of fear. **3. Distraction and Engagement** Provide your dog with engaging toys or puzzles to keep their minds occupied. Chew toys, treat-dispensing toys, or interactive games can be excellent distractions. Not only will this divert their attention from the fireworks, but it can also be a source of mental stimulation. **4. Soothing Sounds** Playing calming music, soothing white noise, or nature sounds can help mask the sound of fireworks. This auditory camouflage can make the loud noises less frightening for your dog. There are even specially designed playlists and apps for pet relaxation. **5. Consider Anxiety-Reducing Products** For dogs with severe anxiety, products like ThunderShirts or anxiety wraps can provide a sense of comfort and security through gentle, constant pressure. Consult your veterinarian for advice on these tools. **6. Positive Associations** Over time, you can help your dog associate fireworks with positive experiences. During firework season, offer treats, playtime, or their favourite activities when the fireworks are going off. This can help them develop a more positive outlook on the situation. **7. Consult Your Veterinarian** If your dog's anxiety during fireworks is extreme, don't hesitate to consult your veterinarian. They can offer guidance on medication or other anxiety-reducing solutions tailored to your dog's needs. At Muddy Paws Adventures, we understand the importance of keeping your four-legged friends safe and happy. By following these tips, you can make firework season less stressful for your dog, ensuring they enjoy a peaceful and secure environment. Remember, a little extra care goes a long way in ensuring the well-being of your beloved pet during fireworks season. 🐶❤️

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