Teachings kids to be responsible dog owners

[bigdoglover]

This is Hertfordshire

THE Dogs Trust, the UK's largest dog welfare charity, has appointed an education officer at its rehoming centre, in Harefield.

The trust said it was working towards the day when all dogs enjoyed a happy life, free from the threat of unnecessary destruction.

It cares for more than 14,000 stray and abandoned dogs every year, and invests heavily in a nationwide education programme to encourage responsible dog ownership.

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Raising awareness was an essential part of that work, and young people were a particular target as the dog owners of the future.

Natalie Dexter, like all trust's education officers, will concentrate on running workshops in schools, aimed seven to 11-year-olds.

Natalie, who previously worked as a learning assistant for the National Portrait Gallery, said she was really enjoying her new role, especially as it combined her love of teaching with dogs.

She owns two Patterdale terriers.

"I'm really excited about my new role," she said.

"We have already had a very positive response to the workshops, and lots more have been booked for the future.

"Many of the children in the schools I've visited haven't had a lot of contact with dogs and are just fascinated with the workshops.

"Hopefully this will help make a real difference to dog welfare in London, as the children really seem to care about the subject."