Has anyone else had trouble with off-lead dogs tearing across the green by Seymour Field recently? I was walking mine along Fryerning Lane towards the Bell and my pup got spooked twice in a week, so I’m thinking of switching to early mornings or somewhere quieter. Any recommendations for calmer dog-walking routes around Ingatestone (or a trainer locally) would be really appreciated.

Has anyone got a good, calm dog-walking route in Southend that isn’t heaving at the weekends? I usually do Chalkwell Park early then cut down towards the seafront by Leigh Road, but my rescue gets a bit stressed when it’s busy near Marine Parade. Also looking for a decent local groomer around London Road or Hamlet Court Road who’s patient with nervous dogs—any recommendations?

Anyone know a good, reasonably priced groomer for a slightly nervous rescue spaniel in Braintree? We’ve tried a couple of places near the George Yard Shopping Centre but he still comes out a bit stressed, so I’m wondering if there’s someone calmer people rate. Also, are there any regular dog meet-ups at Braintree & Bocking Public Gardens or around the River Brain path near Panfield Lane that are friendly for shy dogs? Would love a few local recommendations.