Have you ever wondered what it’s like to be a New Forest dog walker? Here’s what I got up to over a week of dog walking in November.
Monday – Highwood, Ringwood.
A great walk this morning with the amazing Otis. Such a mild day, struggling to understand how we can have such great weather this time of the year. This walk is a particular favourite for both Otis and me. Miles from any roads, safe for Otis to be off lead straight out of the van. Head up, tail up, tongue out, what’s not to like? Apart from having to get back in the van and go home.
Tuesday – Ellingham & Harbridge Forest.
Another lovely morning walking in the autumn sunshine, so lucky to have a great selection of safe forest walks on my doorstep, just five minutes from home. Plenty of horses around this morning, paying no attention to us walking past. Being a retriever, any water in the streams and they are full this time of the year, then Otis is in it which really adds to his enjoyment. Don’t worry Otis, a big pile of clean fluffy towels are available in my van and at home to dry you off. You just have fun.
Wednesday – Avon Heath County Park, St Leonards, St Ives, Ringwood.
Wednesday bought the rain, what a difference a day makes. Come rain or shine, it makes no difference to us at My Best Friend, New Forest, always out and about no matter the weather. Such a great walk through acres of unspoilt heathland and wooded areas. Archie joined us today, double the dogs, double the fun.
Thursday – Linford Bottom, Ringwood
Another one of Otis’ favourite haunts, much of our walk is spent on the scent of squirrels, he can never understand where they have disappeared to. Far too quick for you Otis, but 10 out of 10 for effort.
Friday – Smugglers Road, Crow Hill, Ringwood
We managed to miss the rain this morning, such a lovely walk along the paths that led up from the bays around Christchurch. Smugglers would use this path to distribute their contraband into the New Forest. This is the first time that I’ve taken Otis on this walk, he enjoyed it so much, we will definitely return again soon.
Well, that’s a week in the life of a new forest dog walker and I must say, I love my job!
Sandra Harrington, Owner, My Best Friend Dog Care in Ringwood
My Best Friend Dog Care Services
At My Best Friend we offer a range of dog care services including Dog Walking, Doggy Day Care, Home Boarding, Pet Sitting and Puppy Care. We work hard to provide a caring, convenient and professional service to your best friend and we take pride in treating your dog as if they were our own.