Length: 1:03:16
Download MP3 (29.0MB)
(To save MP3 file, right click and select 'Save Target As')
Pets and pupils
Our pets enhance our lives in so many ways - but can they help make learning more relaxed and enjoyable? A new survey conducted by Mars Petcare of 2000 parents across the UK and US shows family pets help children better manage feelings of stress and loneliness, which have been greatly exacerbated by virtual schooling as a result of the pandemic.
83% of parents believe a pet helped their child feel less lonely, and 73% felt their pet reduced stress caused by isolation from classmates. 9 in 10 parents reveal that their pet has positively impacted their child's homeschooling experience. 80% believe that pet interaction should continue as schools return to in-person presentation.
Interestingly, our pets have benefitted from having us at home more during lockdown. If your dog - or other pet - has missed human companionship as their humans have returned to working outside the home, visit Pet Partners and investigate whether volunteering with them could improve your pet's quality of life - as well as yours, and others'.
- Kay O’Donnell, Vice President of the Waltham Petcare Science Institute
Canine Capers Charity Calendar
You may remember from Episode 236 the story of Charlie, who tried a dip with the ducks, only to find that swimming is harder than it looks. When Charlie got into real difficulty, he was rescued by a holidaymaker who had just arrived from Scotland.
Now Charlie's human, Jane Warner, has developed a strong friendship with Shelagh Creegan, who was one of the party who had just arrived from Scotland. If you're looking for your faith in human nature to be restored, this interview is what you need. Jane and Shelagh are prime examples of giving back to society. They're raising money for a wonderful Swansea charity, Glamorgan House by creating and selling Canine Capers Charity Calendar 2022 celebrating dogs.
- Jane Warner
DogCast Radio News (ish)
Just one story this time - a new study suggests that cats may regard their humans as parents to a greater extent than dogs do. Julie and Jenny discuss this research, as well as brining in lots of chat about their dogs, as well as rats, driving experience, consent and reindeer. It makes sense, honestly!