WELL, I'M SURE YOU SAID ‘HEEL’

CANINES are causing havoc in Melbourne households, destroying shoes and other items, but their owners say they feel safer having pets, according to new research.

PETstock research found 28 per cent of Melbourne canines had eaten their owners’ shoes or another item of clothing.

Skipper the dog could never be accused of being a fussy eater; he’s taken a liking to a variety of items around his house. The wire hair fox terrier has eaten loafers, glasses and even a diary.

The PETstock research also revealed 79 per cent of Melburnian pet owners felt safer when home alone with their pets.

However, 89 per cent of owners say they have plants in the home that could be toxic to pets.

Meanwhile, 43 per cent of Melbourne dog owners are confident with letting their dogs off the leash when they are out and about with their pets.

Skipper the wire hair fox terrier, who has eaten loafers, shoes, glasses and even a diary, licks his chops in front of his stash. Picture: David Caird