Prepare

Ways to connect

There is no right way to connect. Below are some options you might try on your walks.

These are options, not steps. Choose whatever feels right for you, your dog and the situation. “Not today” is always an option.

Where and when might opportunities arise?

You don’t need to change your usual walks. It may simply help to notice where and when you’re most likely to see other people or familiar faces.

Walking similar routes at similar times can make repeated encounters more likely. Over time, someone you first meet as a stranger may become a familiar face, and perhaps someone you get to know a little.

Think about:

• which routes tend to include other walkers or people you recognise

• whether walking at similar times might lead to repeated encounters

• whether a park, street, local green space, busier route or quieter route suits you and your dog

• whether any change would feel safe, accessible and genuinely worthwhile

The aim isn't to engineer interaction or sacrifice an enjoyable walk. It’s simply to notice whether some routes or times offer more of the opportunities for social interaction.

Make your plan

Use the below questions to help you make a simple plan for your five walks. You can download the worksheet to jot down your answers as you go, write them somewhere else, or simply think them through.

There are no right answers, and you can change your plan at any time.

Download the Prepare Worksheet

You’ve thought about what might help you feel comfortable and ready to engage.

Next: Engage & Reflect
Take what you’ve explored into your dog walks, then reflect on what happened.

You’ve completed Prepare