Follow Ted's lead for walkies without stress

I WATCHED the first day of 2026 rise with the sun, as I walked our Ted along the lane at the back of us.

- By ALAN WRIGHT

There was no one else around as I headed down to the farm about a mile away, but on the way back (in a loop) I did meet one or two hearty or hungover souls, keeping their contract with the pooch to be out before breakfast, 365 days a year.

Ted happily drags me along until he has finished his business and then the walk becomes more serene as he now stops every few yards to sniff grass, walls and trees. He likes to cock his leg up against cars parked on the pavement.

His behaviour is improving but he still has some way to go before I trust him off the lead, mainly because he exhibits so much joy with everyone and everything he meets.

Given half the chance he would rush headlong into anything he likes the look of.