Good morning everyone...what a lovely day for a nice walk. I'm Sydney but everyone calls me Syd. Sounds like a boys name but I am definitely a girl. I'm 11 next month and I'm mostly a Manchester Terrier but I've got a bit of Jack Russell in me my dad says. Come with me and my old chap as we take a look at Bottling Wood Dam. I made him take some photos as we went along!
First we go under this bridge to get onto the riverside path. It gets a bit cold and smelly under here thanks to the nesting pigeons.
As we come under the bridge we can see the River Douglas (a favourite watering hole of mine!) Dad always lets me choose which side to walk along. I took the right paw path this morning!
We often see a family of ducks hanging around here. I used to bother them a little when I was a pup but am now old enough to have realised it's more trouble than it's worth.
So on we go along the path towards the dam.
A little belly rumble along here so a little munch on the grass is in order.
So we reach Bottling Wood Dam. My dad took a picture of the information board for those who like a bit of local history.
Here we can see the path that runs across the top of the dam and the slope on one side.
When the water is in flood it runs over the top and down the slope. I've only seen it once and it was a bit scary! You can see what it looks like in flood here.
Here is the view when standing on top of the dam looking north. Those big metal poles are to measure the depth of the water and to stop large pieces of debris from blocking the dam.
And here is the view looking south down the slope from the top of the dam.
So let's go across the top and walk back down the other side. I need a drink and I'm getting a bit peckish.
I thought I'd sniffed out a little snack here on the top but it was empty. Better luck next time!
As we start on the opposite pathway, we come across one of my favourite places, especially on a warm day like today. I don't like to go in here in the winter because the river is too fast and deep, but at this time of year it's perfect.
Back we go under another bridge/pigeon home.
And then we come to this thing. I don't know about you but I find it a bit creepy.
And behind it we see this. Maybe someone is balancing out the force here.
And now I'm back home and tucking into a lovely breakfast of chopped lambs hearts, rice, pasta, and mixed veg.
And for afters.....one of my favourite treats.....a frozen crabstick...mmm.
Well after all that, I need a lie down.
Next time I'll show you around Haigh Hall Country Park...It's lovely...and there should be lots of squirrels to chase. So until then, have a lovely day and woof woof to you all.
SYD
I think there is something important about the relationship between people and dogs.
I was thinking about it when I walked ours this morning. I got up at 7AM and walked down through the woods to the river. It had rained overnight for the first time in weeks, and there was that lovely scent you get in the air after a summer rainfall. I sat by the river listening to the sounds of the birds and the water. It was so peaceful. Before we had a dog, I would never have done this. It is almost as if dogs give you permission for activity that would otherwise seem weird, but is actually incredibly important.
I can relate to that. Having a bond with a dog made me look at all animals differently. My wife has epilepsy and if she has a seizure when I'm not there Syd comes to get me. Invaluable. We get up every morning and take Syd out first thing. It's a wonderful way to start the day. That early morning birdsong is enormously therapeutic. Many could cure their depression with this simple lifestyle change instead of popping harmful pills. Walking barefoot has many advantages too.
I've never heard of frozen crab sticks as a dog treat. I may have to try it with my two.
She does a sort of dance when I get one out of the freezer. She doesn't do it for any other treat.
Nice to meet you Syd. Looks like you have some fun places for walkies.
Certainly do Stee. Dads a good un. He knows the nooks and crannies. Woof.
Cracking stroll. Never really explored Wigan. A little tip use #walkwithme tag in the future 💯🐒
Cheers I'll try remember that one ;)
Spot on! 💯🐒