Single Walker in Devon?- why not walk with a hairy friend!

There are many people who enjoy walking in Devon, some with friends & family, some as part of a rambling group and some people walk alone either through choice or circumstance. Walking solo affords you the ultimate experience in tranquility, it's just you and the county's stunning countryside. However even the most introspective soul can still get a little lonely and I think I've found a solution to this problem. The wonderful Dogs Trust (http://www.dogstrust.org.uk/) is a UK based charity that re-homes stray & abandoned dogs. With dozens of dogs in kennels at any one time there are plenty of Dogs that need to go for walkies. The Dogs Trust offers a free dog walking scheme that allows you to register with them and then take a dog out for a walk during set times. There is no obligation and you can go as little or as often as you want. Before you can take a dog out you must first register with your local Dogs Trust. You will need two passport photos, some ID and to complete a short application form. You also need to ensure that you have had an up to date tetanus jab. Once your application has been accepted you are free to take out dogs for a walk during the times that the local centre runs to. In my case this is during the morning as the kennels are open to the public for viewing in the afternoons. Whilst out with the dog you must keep it on a lead at all times and must clear up after the dog. Remember you are an ambassador for the Dogs Trust so you behaviour with the dog must be impeccable in the public's eyes. Although it may sound like there are lots of rules the whole process is very relaxed and the staff are very friendly and make it easy to apply and get accustomed to the routines of dog walking. It is a very rewarding thing to do as the dog benefits from some exercise and getting out into some space away from the kennels where it can enjoy sniffing round at all the interesting scents dogs can pick up on. For me it is nice to have some company whilst out on my own. Dogs are great listeners and even better they aren't ones to talk about themselves all the time! Finally it is great to hear about all the good work the Dogs Trust do and to I am always pleased to find out that the dog I took for a walk last week has been successfully re-homed. It has been great taking the dogs out in North Devon and I have enjoyed many walks along the beach at Woolacombe or through the burrows at Saunton. Of course you can always check out the Devon-Walks.co.uk website for new walking ideas but please bear in mind that some of the walks may not be suitable for dog walking.  So if you fancy having a canine companion to share the view with please check out the dogs trust website to find your nearest centre and give them a visit to ask for more information.