Just over a year ago I became a dog owner.
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Not for the first time – I had several dogs as a kid.
However, as an adult, I wasn't initially that keen on a dog because I didn’t want all the hassle of looking after it.
But I’ve buckled and we picked one up from the pound.
Since then, one thing I’ve noticed is the inconsiderate nature of some dog owners.
They’re so wrapped up in the awesomeness of their dog that they’re unable to comprehend that other people might not like it.
I always have our dog on a lead and I never let her approach a person unless they’ve asked to pat her.
Unlike the inconsiderate owner, I don't start with the assumption that everyone we pass in the street is begging to be approached by a strange dog.
Because, here’s the thing, inconsiderate owners, other people don’t feel the same way about your dog as you do.
I’ve lost count of the times I've walked my dog on a lead through a local park and found someone letting their dog run free.
Like most council parks, all dogs are supposed to be on a leash, but these owners don’t care about anything else but themselves and their dog.
“Don't worry, he’s fine!” they’ll shout from 30 metres away as their mutt comes bounding over to me and my dog.
But I know he's not. My dog was a stray and she’s quite wary of other dogs.
So I have to do my best to keep our dog away from this other mutt that is not under its owner's control (if it’s not responding to your calls, then it’s not under your control) in order to ensure their dog’s safety.
These owners seem truly shocked that neither I nor my dog want anything to do with theirs.
Remember, you might like your dog but that doesn't mean I have to as well.