LONDON dogs and their owners experienced the joys of God’s Own Country – at a Yorkshire Embassy for pups in the heart of the capital.
Pooches claimed ‘dual gnash-ionality’ with an edible passport and enjoyed a dog-friendly Yorkshire Pudding filled with fresh meat and vegetables at Six Park Place on the outskirts of Green Park.
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There was a treat for owners too, with free Yorkshire beers and hearty canapés alongside TV’s The Yorkshire Vet, Peter Wright, and ‘Ambassa-dog’ Yorkshire Terry the Yorkshire Terrier.
It was created by Yorkshire-based, natural dog food brand Harringtons after its research of 2,000 dog owners found 54 per cent see their dogs as one of the ‘locals’ where they live.
And 41 per cent are even convinced their pooch responds to certain dialects more than others.
A key reason for the embassy was that dog owners showed huge appreciation for Yorkshire.
Ranking its best qualities, they revealed the scenery (56 per cent), friendly people (42 per cent), culture (33 per cent), pubs (28 per cent) and food (23 per cent) to be what the county does best.
A spokesperson for Harringtons added: “Here in Yorkshire, we are rightly famous for our honest straight talking and our short arms and long pockets.
“We are delighted to share that Yorkshire authenticity and great value with dogs from all over the UK as part of our mission to make natural, wholesome food affordable for all.”
The study also found more than two-thirds (67 per cent) consider their dog to be part of the family, while 18 per cent say they’re their best friend.
Furthermore, over half (51 per cent) of owners have given their pet a ‘human’ name like Phil or Bob.
Just over four in 10 (42 per cent) reckon their dog has a similar personality to theirs, as 36 per cent say their faithful friend is ‘always’ with them.
Because dogs are such valued family members deserving of great nutrition like us, just under half (49 per cent) say food must always be of the highest quality for their pup.
Despite good intentions, only 70 per cent believe they are currently giving their dog the best possible diet.
The economic crisis continues to take a toll, with cost the biggest barrier to better nutrition, say over half (54 per cent) of owners.
However, dog owners are aware of what makes a nutritious diet, with 47 per cent agreeing a high percentage of meat content indicates high quality dog food, along with containing fresh vegetables (31 per cent).
Peter Wright, vet for Harringtons, added: “There’s a real trend for owners to ‘humanise’ their pets, loving them as they would a relative or friend – and even seeing them as part of the community.
“Owners want nothing but the best for their beloved dogs, with freshly prepared meat, vegetables and gravy (ideally with recognisable ingredients) in every bite seen as key to giving them a happy, healthy life.
“I want to reassure all pet owners, including those rightly worried about money, that quality pet nutrition needn’t cost the earth. Dogs deserve, and can enjoy, posh nosh at a proper price.”
