As I nipped out of the office for a breath of fresh air, I spotted a beautiful black labrador sitting outside a cafe next door cafe, staring intently at the entrance of the local Marks & Spencers. I assumed that she must have been waiting for someone and I decided to keep her company. She was distractedly accepting my stroking her and, despite me whispering assurances into her silky ear, she would not be persuaded to take her eyes off the door. I was shortly joined by an Italian gentleman who was watching her too from a nearby table, and was rather taken with her, and a couple of people who stroked her lovely head and complemented her on her good looks. It seemed that Jess was a bit of a hit with the busy City crowd.
Finally, Jess started wagging her tail enthusiastically, and I saw her owner emerging from the shop. Jess is a 4-year-old labrador bitch, and has recently had five lovely puppies. She lives in the country and comes down to London with her owner who works here. She definitely has that country girl freshness about her. Her coat is so amazingly shiny that, even on that dull, rainy day, it had a glow of polished ebony. She was very well behaved and sat down for treats with her intelligent and sweet face staring at me with almost questioningly, as if to say "Do you have any more?".
Her owner tells me that her favourite pastime is chasing rabbits and pheasants across the fields. This, of course, is not surprising, as labradors are a quintessential hunting breed, originally bred to retrieve waterfowl for gun. They have a thick coat and sturdy physique, well suited to swimming in cold water. Labs, as they are also known, are one of most popular breeds in the UK. Intelligent and energetic, with that characteristic happy-go-lucky attitude, they make fabulous pets but need a lot of exercise, as they are a working dog and, without the stimulation and challenge, they get bored and unhappy.
Jess gave me a spring in my step, as I walked away to the hustle and bustle of the office. Come back Jess - we love you in More London Place!
To meet other London labs please visit Bria and a guide dog - Lucy.
