'My dog's clothes cost thousands, I prefer to spend my money on him, not me'

From expensive diets to elaborate birthday parties, these owners say their pooches deserve a deluxe doggy lifestyle

Our furry comrades can relieve stress and even teach us mindfulness

Results from a recent survey carried out on behalf of Mars Ireland and the ISPCA revealed 52% of respondents prefer canine companionship compared to the 28% who find cats irresistible. Not only does the outcome show dogs are Ireland’s favourite domestic animal, but emerging findings from Psychology Today indicate our furry comrades can relieve stress and even teach us mindfulness.

Noelle Hopkins, proprietor of Happy Paws salon in Carlow, has seen a huge increase in dog ownership since covid and is of the opinion man’s best friend brings a fullness to our existence. “Dogs often provide what we need most even when we do not realise ourselves what we need. No matter how we feel, they still need to be fed, watered, and walked, thus providing stability in our lives.”