Local pet trainer, Karen Boyce, reflects on lifelong animal friendships while celebrating another birthday this June.
June has always felt like a special month to me, not just because it marks my birthday, but because it reminds me how much joy animals bring into our lives. This year, I turn 62, and after more than 30 years spent training dogs and helping their families, I still believe pets are among life’s greatest blessings.
A House Full of Animal Memories
Over the years, I have owned, or perhaps been owned by, almost every kind of pet imaginable. Dogs have always been central to my life, but there have also been cats, rabbits, parrots and plenty of smaller companions along the way. The only creature I never quite got around to having was a bearded dragon.
One of the most memorable gifts I ever received was a young horse called Cheerful for my 21st birthday. She remained part of my life until she reached the grand old age of 21 herself, and she taught me just how strong the bond between humans and animals can become over time.
Welsh Corgis and Famous Pets
I always enjoy seeing stories about famous pets born in June, especially the dogs and cats who have become internet sensations. However, for Welsh animal lovers, nothing quite compares to the Pembroke Welsh Corgi.
The late Queen Elizabeth II helped make the breed famous around the world after receiving her first corgi, Susan, for her 18th birthday. I have met quite a few corgis locally over the years, and they are wonderfully clever little dogs with enormous personalities. One local favourite is Gruff the Corgi from Gresford, who never fails to make people smile.
Wrexham’s Long Love Affair with Dogs
Whenever I pass the old entrance to the Acton Estate, I always notice the famous Acton Dogs statues standing proudly at the gateway. Those elegant greyhounds have been part of Wrexham’s history since 1820 and remain one of the area’s most recognisable landmarks.
I love the fact that you can also find smaller models of the animals at the museum. They make lovely keepsakes, especially for anyone who owns a greyhound or simply appreciates Wrexham’s connection with dogs throughout the years.
A Simple Message for Pet Owners
Whether your companion has fur, feathers, scales or fins, I believe every animal deserves kindness, patience and proper care. Good food, regular veterinary visits and spending quality time together can make an enormous difference to an animal’s wellbeing.
As I celebrate another birthday this June, I will certainly be saving a little cake for any dogs nearby. More importantly, I will be raising a glass to every beloved pet in Wrexham – from the famous faces online to the quiet companions curled up on sofas across the city.
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