Irish Independent

Maybe they’re a bit spoiled?

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One of the joys of having dogs is that you get to ridiculous­ly over- pamper them.

Sure, I know we’re all meant to be like Cesar Milan, the Dog Whisperer, but I’ve always thought it rather defeated the purpose of having a pet if you couldn’t spoil them.

For instance, my pair now refuse to eat chicken thighs, preferring, instead, to dine on roasted chicken breast.

I know it’s stupid and I know it’s my fault that they have become so picky but they were rescue dogs and deserve a bit of luxury. Although I realised just how absurd things had become last Thursday when I found myself eating toast as they munched on chicken because I had forgotten to buy enough for myself when I was doing the shopping.

But sometimes there is a downside to all this.

I was walking Molly and Sam over the weekend when a young Westie came running over to us. He was off the leash and Molly immediatel­y darted over to him and started barking furiously. His response? He simply looked at her like she was mad and, when called by his owner, dutifully trotted off.

I then realised it — my pair are now so spoiled that they have become completely anti- social and only respond to the company of — certain — humans.

The reason I’m telling you this?

Well, I’m currently compiling a series of anecdotes from dog owners for a book I’m planning — all proceeds will go to animal welfare charities.

So, if you have any stories or pictures of your best friend, then send them and let me have a look.

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