Welcome to this tail-wagging edition of Join the Docs, where our esteemed hosts, Professor Jonathan Sackier and Doctor Nigel Guest, embark on a journey through the paw-some world of dogs and their impact on human health. And on social media note that  the Docs are joined by another host, a rather adorable Golden Pootriever as well as his trainer, Slim the Skeleton.

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Did you know that dogs were domesticated between 20,000 and 40,000 years ago? In today's episode, we dig up the bone-afide history of our four-legged friends, tracing their paw prints all the way back to their wolf ancestors. That's right, Snoopy, Toto and Lassie's great-great-great (add a few thousand more greats) grandpup was a wild wolf!

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The Docs will guide you through the kennel of dog breeds, from the noble German Shepherd to the sassy Chihuahua, and into the realm of designer dogs. Ever heard of a Schnoodle or a Whoodle? They're not items on a fast-food menu, but rather adorable hybrids to melt anyone’s heart.

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Sackier and Guest share sticky tales of dog waste disposal—because picking up after your pooch can be a stinky business, but someone's gotta do it. They also debunk the charming myth of Saint Bernards’ and their brandy barrels. Spoiler alert: those rescue dogs don't actually moonlight as bartenders!

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Ever felt your worries melt away when a dog gazes into your soul with those big, loving eyes? Owning a dog can lead to a healthier heart and a stress-free smile. That's not magic; it's science! And let's not forget the incredible assistance dogs provide, from guiding the visually impaired to detecting seizures. These furry angels are more than just pets; they're life-changers.

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But, did you know that dogs can carry certain organisms that are transferable to humans? The Docs also tackle the less cuddly topics of dog-related infections and allergies. But fear not, with responsible pet ownership, the benefits far outweigh the risks.

So, grab your leash and a doggy treat, and prepare for a howling good time on Join the Docs. And remember, a dog is the only thing on earth that loves you more than it loves itself. Isn't that something to bark about?