Dogs have always played an important part in my life—but even more now that I am in the twilight years.

For one thing, I have never been a "morning" person and didn't particularly enjoy talking to anyone, family or friends, until mid-morning. Now that I have retired I have two dogs and so feel obliged to get up early to walk them, otherwise half the day can fly by while you are lingering over breakfast! I have had both knees replaced with titanium joints so I am inclined to be stiff when I get up; however, after walking the dogs my joints feel as though they have been oiled, and I really enjoy the fresh air and exercise in all weathers.

I live in a rural area, and I appreciate the seasons so much more than when I was working. I never identified the songs of birds in my younger days. One is never lonely when one has a dog—they seem to understand one's feelings so much more than many people. There is also a feeling of security, and I am not afraid to walk down a country lane with two protective and alert dogs. All dogs are not the same, of course, but the Tibetan breeds are particularly aware of anyone near, either in front of or behind you, and that is reassuring.

I meet many people on my walks—people of all ages and nationalities. Some people stop for a brief chat, and it is refreshing to hear different viewpoints on world news and also about different lifestyles. I meet foreigners who are visiting the area. I may never see them again, but it is surprising what pearls of wisdom I pick up. I am absolutely certain that if I didn't have a dog, I would be sitting in a chair most of the day—watching the world go by and feeling stiff and useless. It's early evening and we are all going out to take a walk and to watch the sun setting.