The Big Blue Dog

25/10/2024

27/09/2024

DISTRACTED DOG WALKERS

The distracted dog walker is commonly seen chatting on their cell phone, wearing headphones or socializing with other people while oblivious to what their dog is doing, how their dog is feeling or what is going on in the environment.

This may not sound like a problem to some, but it is something that many people have a problem with, even more so if you have a reactive dog.

I compare walking a dog to driving a car. It’s not so much about our driving skills, but having to constantly be aware of the driving skills of others – trying to predict what they will do, which rules of the road they will ignore and how distracted they are. This is especially true in the country I live in, where driving can be a stressful experience.

I understand that we often need to multi task – there simply doesn’t seem to be enough time in our day to accomplish everything we need to, but walking our dogs should not be one of these times.

Some people might say – “but my dog is really friendly, well socialized, gets on well with everyone, is well trained, knows this environment well etc. and I hear that.

But another dog might not be – maybe they need space, are reactive, are not sociable, are recovering from an illness, might be terrified of another dog racing straight towards them chasing a ball thrown from a ball launcher etc.

If distracted dog walkers have no regard for other dogs or other people, they should at least have regard for their own dogs. Walking your dog should be a time of bonding, of relationship, of seeing the environment through the eyes of your dog, of reinforcing and teaching wanted behaviours, of keeping them safe and protected from the unknown.

Our dogs need us to be focused, to pay attention, to be aware and attentive.

Our dogs depend on us to advocate for them.

26/08/2024

We’re pleased to welcome the new Pet Abduction Act, coming into force from today, 24 August, which introduces tougher penalties for stealing dogs- up to five years in prison, a fine, or both.

This law is a crucial step in recognising the emotional value of dogs and the devastation caused to victims of pet theft.

Find out more and get tips on keeping your dog safe: www.thekennelclub.org.uk/dogtheft

26/08/2024

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Happy International Dog Day! 🐶🎉

Today, we celebrate our loyal and loving canine companions who bring endless joy and happiness into our lives.

International Dog Day, founded in 2004, aims to raise awareness about dog adoption and the importance of providing rescue dogs with a safe and loving home.

Rescuing a dog not only transforms their life but also enriches yours with unconditional love and companionship. These dogs often show immense gratitude and loyalty, proving that second chances can lead to remarkable bonds.

Whether they're fetching a ball, snuggling on the sofa, or simply wagging their tails, dogs make every day brighter.

Show your dog some extra love today and share a photo of them with us!

08/08/2024

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12/07/2024

✂️✂️We have just a few appointments left for July. ✂️✂️Please give us a call or text on 07508 346315 if you want to get your pup Summer ready ☀️🕶️ We’d love to help!

25/01/2024

Treat your four legged friend to a Valentines special pamper 🥰

❤️ Treat your four legged love of your life to a special Valentines pamper. Add this luxury pamper package to any full groom you book between 30 January and 14 February to be entered into our Valentines prize draw for a free maintenance groom. ❤️ Call or text on 07508 346315. Book soon as spaces are limited.

25/01/2024

following one of our one off deep cleans!

17/01/2024

✂️ We have a few appointments still available this week ✂️

Thursday 18 Jan: 11.30am and 3.00pm
Friday 19 Jan: 12.30pm, 1.30pm, 2.30pm and 3pm

If you are looking for a full groom ✂️or a bath and blow dry 🛁 on either of these days, please call or text us on 07508 346315.

We look forward to hearing from you 😊

Thank you

24/12/2023

Wishing all our amazing clients a very Merry Christmas 🎄 and a happy, healthy and prosperous 2024. Thank you for continuing to support our small business, it is so very much appreciated and 🥰 thank you for all our lovely Christmas cards and presents. You are so kind and generous.
Best wishes from Mel, Kim and Sam

23/08/2023

Lovely dogs, lovely walks in some of our local country parks - what an amazing job we have!

09/07/2023

Henri the beagle was back with us for his holidays last week and caught up with old friend Jet and some new pals as well

09/07/2023

Our old dog walking friend Chilli was back to stay with us this week. Really miss this lovely Cockapoo. 🥰

25/06/2023

It’s been walks in the shade this week and a paddle in the water to stay cool 💦

18/06/2023

Always fun walking with our little merry troop 😍

29/05/2023

A little bank holiday jaunt to the park this morning with Gaby, Bailey, Bert, Billy and Pepper 🥰

27/05/2023

Just a few photos from our recent walks. 😍