Time for a Pawse - Pet-Friendly Ireland, A Dog's Life is a Good Life in Belfast

This year I became a mum. And, like everyone tells you, it totally changed my life. But, I'm speaking as a mum of the four-legged type, the cutest miniature dachshund puppy you could ever find. Too cute not to spoil and too loveable not to be slotted in to your everyday life.

Now, almost 6 months on, I'm learning how easy (or not) it is to wholly integrate even the cutest of puppies into your pre-puppy lifestyle. 

My lifestyle and timeout hasn't changed. My choices have. My new canine priorities have some limits and I have quickly learned to appreciate and applaud the pet friendly patrons of home. They deserve acknowledgement and praise and, through a new series of pet friendly posts, I want to share the wins for dog owners that I find on my search not to feel like I have been put in the dog house, just because my new best friend is with me!

This weekend is the perfect place to start. A return to the stunning grounds of Belfast Stormont Estate for a long puppy walk in the sunshine.  

Stormont is impressive for anyone, but it is a Mecca for dog owners. Dawn to dusk opening hours, woodland walks of 4km through the estate with stunning statues, gardens and castle buildings.

The simple 1 mile stretch along Prince of Wales Avenue to the striking Northern Ireland Assembly in the Parliament Building is a shared route for joggers and dog walkers, lined on either side by greenery to take stop, play ball or walk through.

Stormont promotes responsible dog owners. Waste bags are provided in bins and I am delighted that it sponsors a environment of ownership and cleanliness. 

The grounds are kept this stunning as a result of this, and is testament to how pleasant a morning or weekly visit to the grounds can be for everyone.

There is nothing like a 2 mile jaunt to start your day and set you and the puppy up for the weekend! More to come...

'Til next time, Pandora (and Nacho)