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The Virtual Island Summit

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The Virtual Island Summit was founded by James Ellsmoor.  It is truly a unique event.  The ethos of the Virtual Island Summit is connecting leaders from around the world to drive sustainability and prosperity for island communities.  A variety of topics including environmental, sustainability and economic recovery are discussed with a focus on islands.  Now, more than ever these important conversations are needed to help facilitate positive change and more towards a more sustainable future for the betterment of the environment.  

There will be over 30 interactive panels, roundtables and keynote sessions all packed with networking opportunities and the chance for you to ask questions, have your say and get involved in the discussions with world-class experts from across the globe. 

Sessions cover a variety of important topics for islands around economic recovery, sustainability and good governance, including:

  • Towards Sustainable Island Futures: Comparing Small Island States and Subnational Island Jurisdictions
  • Clean Energy Development and Integrated Resource Planning (IRP)  
  • Democracy In The Islands: Political, Issue & Public Affairs Campaigns
  • Technology and Innovation Policy for Island Sustainability
  • Political Roundtable Of Island Political Leaders On Responses To COVID-19
  • Meet Ellen, the Future of Clean Maritime Transport
  • and more!

The summit makes these important conversations accessible to all with a platform to share knowledge and drive change.

Last year, The Virtual Island Summit had over 4,000 people join from 250 island communities around the world. 

Join The Virtual Island Summit and connect with sustainability leaders from Prime Ministers and Presidents to the local islanders doing their part to make the world a better place. 

Click here to register for free.

Q&A with James Ellsmoor, Founder of The Virtual Island Summit

What inspired you to create Island Innovation and the Virtual Island Summit?

In recent years the effects of environmental degradation and climate change have become more serious, there has been a corresponding shift in society, with people and governments wanting to transition towards a more sustainable lifestyle that is more environmentally-conscious. However, there have been communities that have been dealing with these issues for decades that have not really been part of these new conversations. Island nations around the world are disproportionately affected by climate change, and have had to adapt and innovate in order to survive – yet their voices and knowledge are not always being acknowledged on the global stage.

The Virtual Island Summit aims to be more inclusive in its approach. We have an opportunity to create “digital bridges” that will bring the voices of these communities to the forefront and work together towards solutions that lean on the expertise of every global community, no matter how isolated they may be. The input of these communities is invaluable in building a sustainable future, and the event brings together experts from islands around the world to discuss key issues facing the planet and how we can resolve them together.

Can you share with us more about the aim and purpose of the Virtual Island Summit?

The Virtual Island Summit’s main aim is to create digital bridges between hundreds of policymakers, entrepreneurs, academics, and NGO leaders from islands across the globe in order to discuss the major issues that are facing society. It is meant to bind together the global community, and promote the transition towards a sustainable world through constructive dialogue while highlighting the important work being done by island communities. 

We want to create opportunities for more experts from these communities to partake in high-level discussions on global issues and be a part of finding workable solutions. There are often certain barriers to entry, such as the location of international summits and the associated travel costs. A virtual event ensures that the playing field is level and that the only tools needed are a computer and an internet connection – we are committed to keeping the summit completely free! This makes for a more diverse array of speakers and attendees and lifts the curtain on what are usually restricted events.

What is the theme for this year?

Sustainability in action. There will be several panels and lectures outlining current developments in technology, renewable energy and governance – and how they can help with a transition towards greater sustainability. Each session will bring together leaders from different sectors to create a comprehensive discussion that really encapsulates the topic at-hand from several points of view. As the VIS Agenda highlights, every aspect of global sustainability will be under the microscope, with topics as diverse as the speakers themselves.

Who are some of your keynote speakers and topics of interest?

This year the Summit will boast participants who are leaders in their respective fields, such as the CEO of Leclanché, Anil Srivastava, who will be speaking during the Western Hemisphere Grand Opening, or Dr Laurie Brinklow from Prince Edward Island’s Institute of Island Studies’ who will be moderating a session entitled: “Towards Sustainable Island Futures: Comparing Small Island States and Subnational Island Jurisdictions” which will gather academics from around the world. There will be themed sessions with topics including but not limited to governance, renewable energy, and ocean conservation, as well as keynote addresses from several political leaders such as His Excellency Dr Mohamed Irfaan Ali, the recently elected President of Guyana, and The Honourable Frank Bainimarama, Prime Minister of Fiji.

How can individuals take part?

Registration to the Virtual Island Summit is completely free, with viewers able to follow interactive sessions live or through a replay link at a later date. There are over 30 different sessions available with no cap on how many you can join. Attendees will be able to interact and engage with each other during these events, and will have additional opportunities to interact with the Summit’s speakers and sponsors!

What can attendees expect when watching The Virtual Island Summit?

The Virtual Island Summit is held through a series of dynamic public panels, webinars, and lectures that unites some of the world’s sharpest minds and decision-makers in one place, providing a knowledge-sharing experience like no other. There is a large range of topics that are sure to grab attendees’ attention with sessions held in Spanish, French and English discussing important regional issues and how they can affect the world at large. It will give attendees a chance to listen to experts from around the world discuss case studies, the latest breakthroughs in their field, and outline a blueprint for a cleaner, more sustainable world – there is nothing else like it in the world right now!

What is your overall goal this year for the Island Innovation Virtual Island Summit?

The capacity to inspire, educate, and innovate through the contribution of island communities is a core goal of the Summit. Beyond that, the discussions had during the Summit can lead to real global change, with the leaders who speak and the attendees that partake leaving the VIS armed with knowledge, new connections, and a desire to enact change. I hope the digital bridges created by the Summit are the first of many and will help find a range of workable solutions for the planet that will safeguard it for future generations.

What advice would you give for individuals and/or companies trying to be more sustainable?

The hardest part of any transition is the beginning. There are so many different ways for individuals and companies to become more sustainable as well as an ever-growing support network that can help you reach your goals. Sustainability is good for the planet but also for businesses and individuals, and the opportunities that become available once that transition begins might surprise you! Sustainability within an individual or company system can be hard to implement in one go, but making small increments towards a greater goal will ensure that you are more likely to reach them! To slightly alter Anne-Marie Bonneau’s words, we don’t need a handful of people being perfectly sustainable, we need several million doing it as best they can. 

What advances have you seen in sustainability that gives you hope for a more sustainable future? 

Both the tourism and transport industries could benefit from more sustainable options. Agrotourism is a concept that has taken off in recent years – it capitalizes on the natural environment without damaging it and serves as a great learning experience for tourists. When you take into account the vast amount of nations that rely on tourism who have a wealth of natural beauty, and combine that with the growing interest in sustainable tourism there is a pathway there for making the industry more sustainable. On top of this, developments in low-carbon vehicles – namely electric vehicles and airplanes are always very exciting and have the opportunity to have a major impact on the world. Now those are just two developments in two separate industries, but they have the potential to really change how those sectors operate. 

James Ellsmoor is the Director of Island Innovation and Founder of the Virtual Island Summit. The network connects 20,000 islanders from around the world using “digital bridges” to share knowledge and encourage collaboration between islands and build a more sustainable future.

Relevant photos for this article including a headshot can be found here.

Contact: james@islandinnovation.co 

Cayman’s Hidden Gem: Take A Bioluminescence Tour With Cayman Kayaks

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Adventure awaits! If you are looking for an eco-adventure, take a Bioluminescence Tour with Cayman Kayaks. In support of sustainability for Cayman’s natural resources, Cayman Kayaks offers two eco-friendly options; kayak or electric powered bottomless boat. Cayman Kayaks is the closet tour operator to bio bay, which means more time spent in the bioluminescence. Their kayak tour is suitable for ages 6 and up. Their hybrid boat tour is suitable for ages 4 and up. All tours depart from Rum Point Club, meet by the volley ball court. A tour to Bio Bay is the perfect ocean adventure.

Top 5 Reasons To Go On A Bioluminescence Tour With Cayman Kayaks

1. Connect with nature 

When curfews were enforced so many of us took advantage of that time to connect with nature, even if that meant just enjoying your backyard. Spending time out on the water is allowed now, so it is your opportunity to continue that journey and get back in touch with the natural world.

2. Get out of the heat

Once the sun goes down, the heat dissipates allowing you to enjoy being outdoors more. The darkness of the night invites the stars to come out and play. Calm inner-coastal waters is the place to be, out under the stars and away from the mosquitoes found on shore.

3. Educational

Knowledge is power and more enjoyable. Cayman Kayaks fun and educational guides enhance a glowing experience. A trip to bio bay on a moonless night is the perfect night adventure.

4. Ecological Sustainable Adventure

Bio Bay is a hidden gem in Cayman. Only a handful of places worldwide have bioluminescence found in this abundant concentrations year-round. You can help keep this special area preserved by choosing from one of Cayman Kayaks’ ecology sensitive options: Kayak or Bottomless Electric Boat.

5. The Quiet Side of the Island 

Tens of thousands of people travel to Cayman for is natural beauty every year. Now we have the place all to ourselves. Time for an ultimate staycation to Rum Point. Now is the perfect time to explore Cayman and rediscover all the natural wonders that the island has to offer.

See For Yourself Cayman’s Glowing Experience 

 

Tour Dates: August 5-22.

Visit Cayman Kayaks Facebook page as they are offering a 50% discount when you like and share their sale post. Click here for more details.

To book or for more details visit www.caymankayaks.com

Photo Credit:

Cayman Kayak

Brain Cassie

Dive Into Shark School with Jessica Harvey

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Sharks are fascinating creatures.  Over the years, sharks have often been misunderstood and this helped create a negative perception of sharks.  Gradually, that perception is beginning to shift and sharks are being seen in a more positive light.  If anything, we should be more afraid of not seeing sharks.  Our marine environment has a delicate balance, and everything is interconnected.  Sharks play a vital role in maintaining the health of our oceans, keeping marine ecosystems in balance and our coral reefs in check.  Seeing a healthy population of sharks is typically a positive indicator of a healthy coral reef.  

The Cayman Islands is a designated shark sanctuary.  Sharks and rays are a protected species under Cayman’s National Conservation Law.  Here in the Cayman Islands, there are eight species of sharks commonly found in our waters including: Great Hammerhead, Nurse shark, Lemon shark, Caribbean Reef shark, Blacktip, Tiger shark, Oceanic Whitetip and Silky shark. Amongst the variety of shark species found in the Cayman Islands, some species of sharks reside in Cayman waters all year long and inhabit coastal waters.  For many, ocean conservationists, underwater photographers, snorkelers and divers it is considered a privilege to encounter these incredible creatures.  The more people care about sharks, begin to understand the valuable role sharks play for the betterment of our marine ecosystems, and understand the urgency to protect sharks there will be a positive shift in the perception of sharks.  Sharks should be respected not feared.  At the end of the day, people protect what they love.  

There is still so much to learn about sharks and their behaviors.  Education about sharks is key in helping raise awareness about the valuable role sharks play in our marine environment and why protection of sharks is vital.  Jessica Harvey has developed a fascinating documentary series Shark School with Jessica Harvey to help educate people of all ages about sharks.        

Q&A with Jessica Harvey

What inspired your Shark Series?  

JH: The Guy Harvey Ocean Foundation conducts expeditions around the world to study and interact with different shark species. We have had such incredible experiences with the largest, fastest and hardest to find sharks and we wanted to share them with them world.

What is the aim of the Shark Series?

JH: Our new documentary, Shark School with Jessica Harvey, aims to educate people of all ages on the biology, behaviour and especially the plight of sharks. The documentary brings a fun twist to learning and is aimed at students ages 8-18 although it is entertaining for the entire family. We want people of all demographics to be knowledgeable on the threats that sharks, and our oceans in general face and we want to have a conversation about how we can all make a difference through lifestyle changes, big or small.

How does the educational series help change the negative perception of sharks to a more positive one?

JH: The media has sensationalized human-shark interactions creating fear around sharing waters with them. Our documentary shows true behaviour and true interactions. Being in the water with sharks can be dangerous, but we can take safety precautions and behave in a way that is not threatening to them and have experiences that will last a lifetime! The more we can convince people to care about sharks, the more the species and ultimately the ocean ecosystem will benefit.

What are some surprising facts about sharks?

JH: Sharks have senses that humans don’t. The ampullae of Lorenzini on their head and snout pick up electrical impulses in the water and the lateral line system picks up pressure changes in their surroundings making them very effective at finding and catching their prey. It also helps them to identify their prey. For example, a fish eating shark will not be attracted to humans swimming in the water because we are simply too big and move differently to a fish, and they can sense these things from a distance.

How would you describe the important role sharks play in our local marine environment?

JH: Sharks are at the top of the food chain. Not only do they control the populations of animals in the trophic levels below them, they also act as garbage collectors cleaning up sick, injured or dying animals keeping disease in check. If you take the coral reef for example, if we lost all species of reef sharks the effects have the potential to cascade down the trophic levels in a cycle of population increases and decreases all the way down to affecting the corals themselves – eventually the coral could become smothered in algae and die. It’s pretty fascinating!

What are some of the species of sharks you have encountered?

JH: I have encountered tiger sharks, reef sharks, great hammerheads and lemon sharks in Bahamas, scalloped hammerheads in Panama, white sharks in Guataloupe, silvertip, silky sharks and whitetip reef sharks in Costa Rica, whale sharks in Mexico, Galapagos sharks in Galapagos Islands, oceanic whiteip and black tip reef sharks in the Cayman Islands and the list goes on. We are so lucky to have so many incredible shark species in our region.

What is your favorite species of shark? 

JH: This is the hardest question! I love all sharks first of all, but among my favourites are tigers, whale sharks and hammerheads…..oh! and oceanic whitetips! How do you choose?!

Tell us more about your documentary Shark School?

JH: The documentary was produced by 2-time Emmy award winner and fellow adventurer, George Schellenger. His passion for sharks and space simultaneously is second to none and he really puts his heart and soul into the stories that he tells through cinematography. Shark School with Jessica Harvey was also endorsed by KIDS FIRST – The Coalition For Quality Children’s Media, who rated it 5 out of 5 stars!

What are some of the main topics covered in your documentary?

JH: The documentary takes you on an underwater journey to learn about the biology, behaviour, evolution, threats and research being conducted by the Guy Harvey Research Institute (GHRI) of 10 shark species from the largest shark, the whale shark, to the fastest shark, the mako shark and everything in between. It also covers some interesting facts about other sharks that the GHRI does not study, like the pygmy shark, and uncovers a secret about the so-called Great White Shark.

Tell us more about your shark conservation efforts?

JH: GHOF and GHRI tag and track multiple shark species across the Western Atlantic and Caribbean to learn about their migratory behviour and identify key habits used for activities such as feeding, mating and birthing. Since beginning this type of research in 1999, we have contributed scientific evidence to policy makers influencing changes in laws and management plans in favour of protecting sharks and their habitats. For example, the Bahamas and the Cayman Islands EEZs were both designated as shark sanctuaries due to the results of scientific research provided by our studies. Shortfin mako sharks were also added to CITES Appendix II, after studies by GHRI showed that 30% of tagged mako sharks were harvested. This was a huge achievement!

Watch the documentary Shark School with Jessica Harvey

Watch this video for a preview of Shark School with Jessica Harvey

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=38HlS7vtwuM

View the documentary on Amazon Prime, click this link 

For more, videos visit www.ghof.org and watch for free!

Virtual Wanderlust: New York City

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Summer travel plans may be stinted by the current pandemic, that doesn’t mean your sense of curiosity and exploration needs to take 2020 off. In the face of extended closures, many museums and cultural institutes have been exploring ways to bring tourism online. 

New York City is no exception! Many of the city’s landmark museums and some parks have joined Google’s Arts & Culture Platform. Plus, those who haven’t (and even some that have) are hosting their own virtual experience on their websites. 

While these are certainly not as good as being in the city, taking in the sights, smells and sounds with your own senses, virtual experiences can certainly help ease some of your wanderlust until airlines and physical travel become viable again. 

So, without further ado, here are the top NYC virtual experience picks from this newly minted New Yorker… 

Museums 

  1. Museum of Modern Art (MOMA): Every Thursday MOMA is hosting a live, virtual experience of its exhibits. These events include talks and commentary from experts. If you miss a live event, no worries, you can always go back and watch recorded versions of them later.

    https://www.moma.org/magazine/articles/267

  2. The Metropolitan Museum (MET): In addition to it’s Google Culture Platform experience, which focuses in on certain exhibits and pieces of history, you can also wander the MET generally via the 360 project on the museum’s website. Both are great options depending on how you like to digest information and exhibits!

    – Google Culture: https://artsandculture.google.com/partner/the-metropolitan-museum-of-art

    – Met 360: https://www.metmuseum.org/art/online-features/met-360-project 

Entertainment 

While many of NYC’s arts events have wrapped up for the spring season, Carnegie Hall is still going strong with a full host of online live streams. You can find the schedule and links to Facebook or YouTube live streams on their website.

https://www.carnegiehall.org/Explore/Watch-and-Listen/Live-with-Carnegie-Hall#Upcoming  

Parks 

The High Line is one of my favourite walks in NYC for a number of reasons. By transforming what use to be a train track that brought meat products into the city’s meat market district, the city has created a elevated walk that gives you fantastic views of the city. The north end of the walk is also jam-packed with street art and sculpture installations. I also love the bold architecture of some of the new condo developments that have popped-up around the walk — many of which make it feel like you are walking through a futuristic space city.

You can walk the whole High Line via Google’s Arts and Culture platform by clicking here. 

Food

While tasting some of the city’s fine cuisine is not something you can really bring online, there are a few foodies doing their best to create a virtual stand-in. 

The New York City Wine & Food Festival, has launched some online summer courses to promote the in-person festival they hope to hold in October. As of today, you are able to register for a host of amazing online cooking classes to help spruce up your at-home cooking routine: https://nycwff.org/athome/ 

Eataly, the city’s famous Italian food market and restaurant, has been training their Instagram followers on kitchen skills with a series of tantalizing recipes and live cooking events! For more advanced cooking skills, the market has also created online virtual classes to replace their standard in-person cooking courses. If live cooking isn’t your forte, you can also get written copies of their amazing recipes via their online magazine.

Those are just a few of my favourite things to do virtually in the city, but there’s so much more available on the Google’s Arts & Culture Platform and I highly recommend you check them out if you are feeling a little board of your current view and Netflix selection. 

Happy (Virtual) Travels!

Tiffany  

Photo Credit: Tiffany

Green2Go is the Healthy Way to Go 

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Living a healthy lifestyle is important for our mind, body and soul.  Now, more than ever people are taking the time to focus on their wellness and overall health.  When you eat well, and exercise daily you feel good.  In addition, you feel happier, a boost of confidence, mental clarity and more energetic.  I have found since I started drinking Cold-Pressed juices my energy levels have gone up, and overall I feel great.  Personally, I love a good green juice post-workout, and if you are looking for a delicious one give Zen by Green2Go a try.  You will love it! 

I first came across Green2Go Cold-Pressed Shots at Bluestone Lane.  There I discovered what is now my all time favorite Green2Go Cold-Pressed Juice shot the Wellness Shot.  Personally, I have found having the Wellness Shot once a day or at least a couple of times a week has helped boost my immune system.  I really enjoy adding my Wellness Shot to a cup of hot water, and enjoy it as a tea.  Other favorites of mine include Espresso Dream (espresso is always a good idea), Zen  and the Vitality Shot.  Having Green2Go deliver some of my favorite Cold-Pressed Juice shots helps make it easier to ensure I get a proper balance of nutrients to keep my immune system boosted.  

Q&A with Green2Go Founders,  Nicholas Adendorff and Martin van Zyl

What inspired you to create Green2Go?

Green2Go was created because we believed there was a need in the community for healthy, convenient, smoothies, juices and shakes. We believed that you could truly change a person’s life for the better if you could get in their hands healthy alternatives made from nutrient dense products with no additives or flavorings.

What is the inspiration or meaning behind the company name?

Green2Go was chosen as a name as we originally started off with one flagship Kale smoothie in a 24oz glass jar that we delivered to peoples homes. A big green smoothie delivered became Green2Go. 

What are some of the positive benefits of drinking 100% Cold-Pressed Juice?

100% Cold-Pressed juice has many advantages. Some being when we extract the juice using a cold-pressed processed, as supposed to a high speed juicer, we keep all the nutrients in tact. The juice is more nutrient dense and has a longer shelf life as well. It is said that cold-pressed juice holds up to 75% more nutrients after a day on the shelf than regular juices made with your average high speed juicer. 

Which is your most popular cleanse and why?

Our most popular cleanse has to be our Ultimate 3 day cleanse. The reason being that this cleanse starts off with a gentle cleanse pack on day 1, a slightly more detoxing pack on day 2 and an advanced cleanse pack on day 3. It helps spacing the cleanse out this way for maximum benefits. 

Which of your 100% Cold-Pressed Juices are great for boosting your immune system and keeping healthy?

Our new Immunity 16oz Cold-Pressed Juice is our best option for boosting your immune system as it has 10 ingredients in which include herbal medicinals and natural boosters. 

What are some of your tips for wellness and keeping healthy?

We definitely believe having a regular juice routine is key to ensuring you get all the nutrients in that you would miss on days that you don’t eat any vegetables or fruits. 

Other than that daily exercise is very important, lots of water and good sleep every night.

Which is your favorite Green2Go product?

Our favorites definitely change but currently we love our juice of the month which is made from locally grown mangoes, apples, ginger and lemon. 

Are your ingredients locally sourced? 

We source locally where we can but because we use such a large variety of produce we are not always able to source them locally in which case we get them from local suppliers. 

In addition to ordering online, where else can your products be purchased? 

Our products are available in our store at 116 Cannon Place, Industrial Park as well as certain retailers such as Bluestone Lane, 7 Mile Strength and Fitness, Bliss Yoga studio, F45 in the Strand, Brussels Sprouts, The Brewhut in the airport and The Westin. 

How does your recycling program work?

We do not use any plastic at all and serve all of our products in glass which we take back from clients and offer a $0.25 per bottle refund on all glass (to be used for same day store purchase.) 

Shop Green2Go

To purchase Green2Go products online our browse their selection, click this link

For more information about Green2Go delivery and their products email 

letstalk@green2go.ky 

Stay connected with Green2Go Instagram & Facebook 

Mr Fox: The Positive Impact A Therapy Dog Makes On The World

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There is something truly special about the bond between a person and their dog.  Dogs are man’s best friend for a reason.  Dogs are loyal, compassionate and love unconditionally.  There are so many amazing stories out there about dogs enriching the lives of so many people.  At the end of the day our pets become a significant part of our family.  I am delighted to share with you a little bit about my good friend Alicia Proud’s adorable dog Mr. Fox.  Fox is an incredibly sweet dog that makes a positive impact in the lives of everyone he encounters.  Fox has been trained as a therapy dog and helps provide emotional support for those in need.  

Q&A with Alicia Proud, Meet Mr. Fox.

Is Mr. Fox a rescue?  Please, tell us a bit more about Mr. Fox. 

AP: Yes Foxy is a rescue, we popped into the Cayman Islands Humane Society shortly after arriving home from getting married in 2017 and I saw this little feeble pup in the quarantine section not doing so good. I enquired about him and pretty much insisted he needed to get to the vet pretty quick as he couldn’t even lift his head for more than 10 seconds. It was heartbreaking. He headed to the vets, I went to visit him attached to an IV drip at this point and then fostered him to make sure he started his second chance with a little loving! And that was the end of Fox’ s time at the HS. We call it a ‘Foster Failure.’

What inspired you to get Fox certified as a therapy dog?

AP: I knew Fox was a special loving character as he was always so happy to see people since he was tiny. I use to take him to work with me in the office so he got to socialize a lot, and people often came in to just say hi to Fox and not the people- lol!!  I heard about Healing Paws and thought “Yes” Fox is perfect for this, he was always a cute happy chappy that seemed to make people smile instantly, so sharing his love with everyone seemed easy.

What is a typical day like for Fox when working as a therapy dog?

AP: We aren’t actively working now for obvious reasons but in 2018-2019 we use to visit the Pines residential home and chat to the residents who were open to furry visitors. Lifting their spirits and getting some strokes and licks from our guests. Fox and I also use to work with an individual at NCVO.  The bond between Fox and the client was unbelievable and they were both so happy when they played, chased each other around the grounds, played hide n seek, and learnt new tricks. It was wonderful to see them both grow and connect.

What are some of the special characteristics of dogs that become therapy dogs?

AP: Each therapy dog is different and I would say they bring something unique to each person they are trying to help. But generally, therapy dogs need to be calm, well behaved, open, friendly, and it helps to be cute!

 If someone is interested in getting their dog trained to be a therapy dog what advice would you give them?

AP: I would say reach out to your local organisation or rescue organisation and make inquiries. But also work on your dog’s behaviours at home, teaching your dog not to be scared of objects, loud noises etc and be respectful and friendly to strangers.

Dogs are known to be great for emotional support and comforting people, how would you describe your experience with Fox? 

AP: Dogs are very in tune with human energy they know when you are sad, sick, stressed and happy.  If there is stressed energy in the house you will observe the dogs vanish and take themselves away from the situation. When I am calm, they are calm and will settle by you. Fox especially knows how to hug, it may sound crazy but he sits very still when you want to hug him up, it’s like he knows to just hold you for a moment. He gives out plenty of kisses first thing in the morning and always flicks my hand up so I can stroke him, cheeky!

What are some of the positive benefits of having a dog as a pet?

AP:  Dogs give you a purpose to jump out of bed in the morning and get going with your day with a brisk walk and some fresh air. They make you laugh, cry and fill your heart with happiness. When you have two or more dogs the dynamics are a little different as you see a pack form and it is very interesting to watch the hierarchy between each dog and the humans in the household. There is always a sense of belonging and responsibility when you have dogs in your family as they really do become part of the pack. They’re also a great starter before you choose to have human babies, if you are thinking of starting a family, get a dog first.

What do you love most about your dogs?

AP: I love how much my dogs entertain me and how they are so happy to see me even if I’ve been gone for 5 minutes.  They have taught me to listen and stay more grounded, I am so thankful to have had them with me through covid 19 especially as my husband is away at the moment. They have made me feel safe and protected. I have learned more to tune into their energy as they do mine and feed off each other, it really can change your behavior for the better.

 

Stay Connected with Alicia Proud, click this link to visit her website

 

Photo Credits: Ivor Lee and Alicia Proud