Features press samples
Before we got our puppy Bella, I wasn’t 100% confident in how I would cope with a dog, as neither Ed or I have ever had one before. I was a little nervous that I wouldn’t know what to do with her, how I would deal with any issues that might arise, or whether I would be a good dog mum for her. Ultimately, my fears disappeared as soon as I brought Bella home. We had a bit of a drama on the day, and almost didn’t get her, which made it all the more special when I walked in the front door of our house with this tiny little bundle of mischief and introduced her to the children. Since then, Bella has fitted in so well with the family, and I am so pleased that we made the decision to get her, as she has been amazing for my mental wellbeing too.
One of the main things you need to consider when getting a dog, is whether you are prepared to change your lifestyle, as they are a big commitment. I absolutely love getting outside and walking, and it has been really good for my mental health, especially during the last year with the lockdowns. Having Bella gives me the push that I need to get outside and go for a walk a couple of times a day, whatever the weather. I no longer use rain, wind or even flurries of snow in April (UK weather is crazy, huh?) as an excuse to not go outside, as Bella still needs her exercise and the mental stimulation a walk gives to her.
I was sent across some wellies and a packaway rain jacket from Regatta, which have been amazing with the ever changing spring weather – April showers are definitely a thing here in England! Now I am confident on my dog walks that I will be kept dry even if it starts to rain, without the heavy bulk of a winter coat for when the sun starts shining again. The wellies are so comfortable to wear, and I love that they are more stylish than your standard wellies, I have even had some compliments whilst out and about on our local walks.
Having Bella gives me purpose, on those days when I am feeling a little low. Obviously I also have the children, but when they are at school and nursery, Bella is the constant who I can focus on when things feel a little harder to cope with. I am so fortunate to be able to work part time from home, and take Bella into the office with me on the days that I am in the office, now I am back to work, as it makes all the difference having her around for a quick cuddle if my anxiety is spiked.
I wasn’t sure how I would cope as a dog owner before, but now that Bella is here, and has been part of of our lives for almost three months, I don’t know how I ever coped without her. Having a dog is an amazing experience and, although it is undeniable that it has a massive impact on your lifestyle, I am so pleased we made the decision to get Bella. She is awesome.
This post features press samples, however all words and images are my own.
