There is something about sea waves that has an ability to lift all my anxieties, insecurities, and worries. Many of my memories, both sweet and sad, are associated with the rugged shores of the Caspian Sea where I grew up: first kiss and first heartbreak, making friends and losing lovers, feeling happy and being very miserable. These days, having a dog is an excuse for me to escape to the seaside at the first opportunity and let the green-grey waves blow away some of the cobwebs in my head.

On a cold and sunny day, I took my dog Dave (a dachshund) to Sandy Bay in Devon, one of Britain’s blue flag beaches.

Dave quickly found some weird-looking sponge and invented her own game. She has an amazing ability to keep herself occupied for hours. (Yes, Dave is a girl.)

The sponge was looking dodgier by minute but Dave seemed to have no objections.

On cloud nine.

When it was time for us to head back to our London life, Dave, at this point looking like a sandy baby seal, took a bit of persuasion but promises of warm fluffy blankets waiting for her on the sofa always do the trick.