Six years ago, I adopted Moriarty Patrick Boyle from Chilterns Dog Rescue in Buckinghamshire.
He was old even then but a great fire still burns within him. He's his own man and knows what he wants and when he wants it. Nothing pleases him more than a car journey and woe betide me if I leave without him. My sculpture and tools are always safe with 'Arty' on patrol (he thinks he’s a Rottweiler, despite his 6” long legs!). Tennis balls and sticks must accompany us on any journey and if there’s a lake, canal or stream for a quick swim, all the better!
Arty is a talented beggar and will gaze, pleadingly, at me until I succumb and share a scrap of sandwich! His eyes are old now with hints of cataract, he thinks twice about walking in the dark. He's happiest by my side, while I work, and the best company on a long day in the studio. He is a fixture in my workspace. He is my loyal apprentice.
If you're considering a furry addition to your family, please do consider adopting a rescue. It might be one of the best decisions you make this year!
