'Neutral' dog walking group welcome like-minded owners 

Group creates safe space for any and all dogs

Do you have a dog that is a little bit nervous when you're out and about?

Maybe they're reactive, and can struggle to be around other dogs or people?

A new walking group set up in recent months allows owners to walk their reactive dogs in a safe and social way.

NEUTRAL

The 'neutral walks' are designed for dogs to be exposed to some of their triggers, all whilst staying under the control of their handler.

Organiser Eva Boyd rescued her dog Spot two years ago, and felt there was a gap on the Island for group walks to help solidify the training she was doing with him.

Jump forward to now, and she is the Neutral Walk Leader for Honest Hounds - an online community of dog lovers connecting all across the globe.

Siobhán Fletcher went along to the latest Isle of Man neutral walk on Marine Drive to meet her and find out more:

RULES

In order to create a safe environment, the walks have a number of rules in place.

These include:

• All dogs must remain under the control of their handler at all times
• All tools are welcome as long as they are being used responsibly (e.g. muzzles) 
• No on-lead greetings at any time during these walks. 
• Every pack walk will start on lead. If it is appropriate for your dog to be off lead (and fully under control) this can be decided within the group and if everyone is comfortable.

If you'd like to find out more about the Isle of Man Neutral Walks, you can call Eva on 07624341249, email evaboyd16@gmail.com, or find the group via their new Facebook page.

HONEST HOUNDS TO VISIT

Honest Hounds was created by Jessie Montague, when she was 'running out of options' with her first dog, a Hungarian Vizsla called Atlas.

She says: "Despite our best efforts, we were struggling with extreme human aggression and dog reactivity and our world was getting smaller every day. Feeling overwhelmed and isolated, I was desperate for a community that provided support and understanding while getting me on the right track.

"I decided to create a space where dog owners, regardless of their backgrounds, experiences, or challenges, could find solidarity and guidance.

"Honest Hounds is now a space that combines knowledge, welfare, and expertise with a commitment to inclusivity. It’s a place for every dog owner, regardless of their individual circumstances."

In early September the Honest Hounds team will be visiting the Island to run a series of workshops and walks, as Eva explains:

You can find a full list of the events below.

There is a membership fee to join the Manx walks via Honest Hounds, starting at £5 a month - which includes the weekly walks. You can find out more HERE.

To join Honest Hounds or book onto the above events you can contact them via email: admin@honesthounds.co.uk or visit their booking website HERE.

And if you'd like to hear more from Eva about the Island's neutral walks, you can in our latest Newscast, available now: