If you’re into dogs and art, there’s an event in December in Massachusetts that might interest you. And while you’re enjoying the art, you can know you’re improving the lives of animals who really need help.

Episode 77 of DogCast Radio is now available.

The photo here shows author Stephen Foster with his rescue dog Ollie, a Saluki cross, and the latest addition to the family, Saluki Dylan. Ollie inspired Stephen to write Walking Ollie, about the adoption of Ollie, and the difficult relationship that developed between them. Ollie was found living wild as a young pup, and was left with many emotional problems. The book that tells his story is honest and moving and very funny.

Stephen later decided that Ollie needed a canine companion, and so pedigree Saluki Dylan joined the household, inspiring in his turn Along Came Dylan. You can hear Stephen talk about his absorption into the doggy world, and his take on living with dogs. He was a delight to talk to.

The other interview in the show is with veterinarian Paula Terrifaj. At the moment we’re all feeling the effects of the credit crunch, so Paula has very timely advice about how to spend less at the veterinarian without compromising your dog’s health. Paula has some great ideas.

There’s also my thoughts on that ever present chore of dog ownership – walking the dog. When it’s cold and dark most of the time in winter, it can seem extremely difficult to spend so much time outside exercising our two, but it has to be done.

Whether you’re out walking your dog, or tucked up in the warm at home, put us on your MP3 player, or access us via your computer, and we’ll do the rest!

Take care,

Julie x

Well, I survived my arduous day’s work at Dog’s Trust. Actually it wasn’t arduous at all; it was very interesting, and I met some lovely people and dogs. The team at Dogs Trust Roden are so committed to helping the dogs in their care find loving new homes, it’s wonderful to witness.