When Kate Leaver adopted a rescue dog named Bertie from the Battersea Dogs Home, she became fascinated with the history of the bond between dogs and their humans.
She discovered a history going back 8000 years, when Eurasian Grey Wolves were first domesticated by nomads in Siberia.
Kate also delved into the science of the love between dogs and humans, and in most cases, found a relationship studded with mutual oxytocin spikes.
A few years ago, when Kate entered a dark phase of her own life, her Shih Tzu suddenly wouldn't leave her side, and would lie across her chest when she was feeling especially sad.
The responsibility she felt for Bertie became a crucial part of her recovery.
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Originally broadcast April 2020
Good Dog is published by Harper Collins