Homage to the domesticated canine.

Canines, dogs, mutts, hounds, whichever endearing term you wish to use (I'd prefer it was endearing though). I've been fortunate enough to have been friends with many throughout my life. From 'Misty' a Staffordshire Bull Terrier, to a Cocker Spaniel named 'Dylan' and not forgetting our very first family dog, 'Riley' a mongrel of Spaniel decent.

I've found them all to have their very own personality. And they react to input in the same way as us human beings. The poor dog who is subjected to abuse, whether it's verbal or physical, can display a type of canine version of post traumatic stress syndrome. That's not to say these unfortunate cases are beyond help though. The grandmother of a good friend of mine has dedicated a large part of her life to the rehabilitation of abandoned or rescued Labradors. Not only has this helped these dogs to lead a fulfilling life, but has enriched her very own time on this planet in the process.

Studies in canine behaviour have shown our sometimes 'anti-feline' friends can show an understanding of about 200 words. They also respond to a variety of different sounds including whistles and clicks. We human beings can certainly communicate with canines. And for that, we should count ourselves lucky.

Just think of the number of challenges and problems dogs have helped us overcome and solve, respectively. From leading the blind, to the discovery of dangerous concealments of drugs or bombs, the location of missing persons in search and rescue operations and not forgetting the dead bodies of murder victims. I really do think they care about us.

Not only do dogs help us with the scientific and forensic, but they are such loving, interesting and humorous companions too. People of an advanced age find comfort in their relationships with canines and protection in physical terms also. There's nothing like the growl and bark of a dog, large or small, to scare off a burglar lurking in the pitch black of a winter night. And a dog will fearlessly enter the unknown of the back garden at 2 am, helping to ease his owners potential nocturnal anxiety and restore his peace of mind.

I could go on further, but I'm quite sure dogs have secured more than a cult following over the years. I just wanted to give us all a quick reminder of the joy they bring us, the things they do for us, the loyalty they display and they games they play. I love dogs, and I'm sure you do too.

For Rosie, the Cockapoo. Rest in Peace