In association with our good friends at DogHQ each month we meet Shore people whose four-legged family members add a great deal of joy to their lives. Our very own dog-lover Aidan Bennett loves the task of putting this monthly feature together. He and wife Michelle have two dogs of their own. This month Aidan talks to Kelleigh Hooker of the Bays about her English Bulldog Peanut.
AIDAN BENNETT: How long has Peanut been part of your life?
KELLEIGH HOOKER: We adopted Peanut when she was three years old. She has been lighting up our lives now for just over two years.
AB: What made you decide to get an English bulldog?
KH: We have always loved English bulldogs – their temperament, personality and gorgeous face is what sealed the deal for us.
AB: Is she your first dog? If not, tell us about your other dogs.
KH: Peanut is our first dog and it has definitely been a learning curve!
AB: Do you have any other pets?
KH: Previously we had cats but currently no other pets.
AB: What do you love about Peanut?
KH: Everything! She has a beautiful nature, really chilled personality, and just makes us laugh every day.
AB Does she have any bad habits?
KH: Is stubbornness considered a bad habit? Otherwise, she does this thing where she dances on her butt and sticks her tongue out every time she gets in the car. Drives us nuts!
AB: What are Peanut’s favourite things to do?
KH: The beach is her happy place. She just waddles along with her ball in her mouth, enjoying the outdoors. Also enjoys LOTS of naps and cuddles.
AB: How long has Peanut been going to DogHQ and does she love it?
KH: Peanut has been going for about two years now. She has made heaps of new doggo friends and can be as active or inactive (napping again) as she wants. The team there are really great and she's always very excited to see them.
AB: Does Peanut love the beach and swimming?
KH: Absolutely. Bulldogs are not made for water sports so we bought her a lifejacket and now when we go swimming she can join us. If not swimming she enjoys running in and out of the waves to cool off in summer.
AB: Any words of wisdom for other dog owners or prospective dog owners?
KH: If you can, please consider adopting an older dog. While they might come with a few quirks they are well worth the time and effort, and they'll love you unconditionally for making them part of your family and giving them their furever home. If puppies are your thing, do your research so you know exactly what you're getting into, and make sure you source an ethical breeder who treats their animals well and has a breeding programme which takes into account animal and breed welfare.
