A very sagely Dog Behaviourist Chris Muldoon from the charity Dogs For Good is the guest in this episode, discussing ways of making coming out of the lockdown a smoother experience for dogs. Maria McErlane and Paddy O’Connell also discuss with Chris the affect that the lockdown experience has had on dogs and our relationships with them, how dogs and human have evolved together, plus the impact that dogs can have on those with dementia.

Musician Rachel Fuller talks to Maria and Paddy candidly about her Animal Requiem, the human need for ritual after death and what it’s actually like to grieve for the passing of a dog, or in Rachel’s case, six dogs. We hear stories involving caves in Italy and letters to Paul McCartney. They also discuss the contentious topic of when one dog passes, whether it is best to get another one soon afterwards.

Are your dogs keeping you sane in lockdown? That is the question which the inimitable duo Paddy and Maria explore in this first episode of the second series. They also discuss how their dogs, Bob and Dolly are yearning for the company of others, are not socially distancing and the whether the wearing of face masks is affecting relationships with their dogs and other owners.

Sara is the rare media star who has gained work and kept it all her career. Recently promoted to Drivetime on Radio 2 how does she balance the owning of children and animals ? Has owning a dog contributed to her new success?

Kate had never had a dog but had a chaotic lifestyle. Late night parties with drink and drugs and a long-suffering boyfriend. Then she got a dog and everything changed ..but then she lost it. She tells Maria and Paddy how her life fell apart as she searched.

Every dog owner walks with strangers - some become friends, others known only by their dog. Is it healthy to talk to these people? Should they be ignored and why did Paddy run through the park away from one?

Is the dog a pet or a substitute child? How to spot if you're trapped by your terrier or ruled by your ruffian. What can it do for mindfulness and good health?