I live in Chiswick, and honestly, it’s a wonderful part of London for dog owners. Leafy, calm, and filled with great walks. But twice a week, I commute to work with my dog — and not just anywhere. We head to Hampstead Heath.
It’s a bit of a journey, but totally worth it. I take the Overground from South Acton because I find it far better for dogs than the Tube. There’s more space, it’s always above ground, and the trains are newer, so there’s very little rail noise. My dog is noticeably calmer on the Overground, especially if I’ve remembered to bring a few treats.
When we get to Hampstead Heath, we do a quick walk before heading into the office. It’s such a luxury, having that kind of green space right there. He gets to sniff, run and stretch his legs before settling down for the workday. It means he’s far more relaxed when we finally get inside.
Of course, the Heath also means mud. Lots of it. Especially on those classic grey London mornings. That’s why having Oscura in the office has been an absolute game-changer. It sits just by reception — it looks really neat and tidy, so no one minds it being there — and it gently washes my dog’s paws and lower legs in under a minute. I use it pretty much every time we come in, but so do a few others in the office. It’s become part of the routine. It’s also made a huge difference to how the office smells, especially on rainy days.
Lunchtimes are a treat. I usually head back into the Heath for a walk. In the summer, my dog loves a dip in the ponds. It feels wholesome and grounding, like a pocket of countryside right in the city.
When the workday ends, sometimes I go back into the Heath for a quick loop, or I take a slower walk through the streets of Hampstead. The houses are stunning and there’s a peaceful atmosphere that’s hard to find elsewhere in London. If I’m meeting friends after work, I usually stay local — a pint at a pub in Hampstead or somewhere around Primrose Hill or Camden. I tend to avoid Central if I’ve got my dog with me. It’s doable, but not ideal.
Then it’s the Overground home. He knows the routine now. And when we finally get back to Chiswick, it’s a quiet wind-down. Food, a little play, and then he curls up in his bed. We’re both tired, but in the best way.
Having a dog in London takes effort, but it’s so worth it. You find your rhythms. You plan ahead. You create little routines that make life easier.
For me, Oscura has become part of that. It means I’m not chasing mud with a towel or apologising for paw prints on the office floor. It just works.
Subtle. Useful. Built for city dog life.
