'Get walking, start talking' - that's the message Lorraine Kelly is helping share in a new campaign tackling winter loneliness. The TV star is hosting a series of podcasts all about the positive role dogs can play in combating social isolation.
‘Paws to Talk’ episodes are being released on all major podcast platforms throughout October, or 'Dogtober' as it is being dubbed. They will see Lorraine speak to people about how their assistance dogs have helped build their confidence and social connections.
It comes as insurance provider MORE THAN and charity Dogs for Good revealed the scale of social isolation in the UK. Almost two fifths (38%) of Brits they surveyed, and nearly half (47%) of those with disabilities, stated they regularly feel lonely.
Lorraine said: “When winter closes in, my dog Angus gets me out of the house and chatting to people, even when I would sometimes rather stay home with a cup of tea. He needs his daily walks and plays a crucial role in inspiring my daily conversations. I hope by sharing these stories, we can encourage other dog owners and dog lovers to take toile to chat and make new friends.”
The study also found that those with dogs are more sociable, with dog owners more likely to go for a walk at least once a day and more likely to strike up conversations with new people. The effect is even more pronounced for disabled dog-owners with seven in ten finding they are approached more when accompanied by their pooches.
Peter Gorbing, CEO of Dogs for Good, said: “Our research shows that dog owners take more walks and have more meaningful connections with new people while out and about. So, when you’re in need of some social interaction this Dogtober, take your dog out for a stroll in a park or their favourite beach and enjoy the wellness benefits that this quality time is sure to bring.”
Throughout Dogtober, people are being people to visit the Dogs for Good website and sign up to a fundraising challenge to walk 100km throughout the month. Find out more the challenge and how you can listen to the podcast here: https://www.dogsforgood.org/get-involved/fundraise/dogtober/
