It’s important to note that while these advances – which may not even involve actual intercourse – often provide sexual or physical gratification, dogs also engage in humping behaviors for a variety of other reasons. Some dogs hump things as a form of play, while others do so when they are anxious. Why Does My Dog Hump Other Dogs? Interestingly, researchers have noted that these sheep have a smaller hypothalamus than their heterosexually oriented counterparts. This is consistent with other research, which has documented the same phenomenon in human men. Does It Matter If Your Dog Is Gay? Sophie Raworth presents highlights of the event marking the 75th anniversary of the Battle of Normandy, decisive in the outcome of the second world war. It includes yesterday’s commemorative event in Portsmouth and a remembrance service at Bayeux War Cemetery in Normandy. David Stubbs Tonight: Meat – Is it Still Safe? 7.30pm, ITV

As a teenager I competed in canine sports, I have multiple dog-themed tattoos, including portraits of my current dogs. Speaking of which, and a little bit more about me and my animal obsession: My partner Kestryl and I have been together ten years and are parents to a (not so) small menagerie of critters. We’ve all been there – you’re at the park, or having a dinner party, and your dog starts humping someone else’s pup or one of your guests’ legs. Homosexuality doesn’t even prevent your dog from successfully reproducing, if that is something you have planned. Veterinarians can collect sperm manually and inseminate females, just as doctors do for infertile human couples.

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Our youngest two had rougher starts in life: Charlotte our 4-year-old Shepard/Cattle Dog mix was found living on the streets starving with a litter of puppies before a rescue saved her; and then the baby of the family, Thing, a semi-feral 11 month old kitten we found barely weaned in a snow bank last winter. Although all types of humans worship dogs, nobody knows the bond between a lesbian and her dog. Don’t believe me? Come over to my house and see for yourself. It’s never a dull moment around my house and I’m sure my critters will be making appearances in future months! I’ve never had a woman I’m dating do that. And no matter how my dating life is going, Rose is ever true and not going anywhere. Okay, now that we know why lesbians rule the world, let’s discuss why we love dogs. As a dog-obsessed lesbian myself I’ll prove just why us lady lovers like fur babies more than most, and no, I’m not talking about a vagina (although that’s a great name for a vag). Lesbians Are Extremely Empathetic We’ve had it hard. We’ve had to battle our confusing sexuality. We’ve been told our relationships aren’t as valuable as heterosexual relationships, and some of us have even been rejected by our families. We’ve all felt lost. We understand hardships. That’s why many of us can’t stand the thought of a lonely dog, scarred and scared in an animal shelter. Ever heard of Ellen DeGeneres? Yeah, she gets it. We Love Cuddling Show me a lesbian who doesn’t love cuddling and I’ll show you a liar! Honestly, I personally love cuddling more than anything. I love cuddling more than sex. Okay, that’s not necessarily true – but some days it sure feels that way. Dogs are the best species because they will cuddle all. damn. day. Kisses and cuddles: the way to a lesbian’s heart. (That might be the future name of my memoir).

To humans, humping in public is considered a big no-no. So when our dogs start mounting each other in public, it can cause us to feel embarrassed and confused about why our beloved fur babies are engaging in such uncouth behavior. But things really get interesting when you move up to our close relatives. Macaques (medium-sized primates native to Asia) often exhibit lesbian tendencies, and bonobo chimps (our closest living relatives) take sexual freedom to a whole other level. Does that sounds about right for your budget? It definitely does for my family—we vacation with our dogs as often as we can, and all that kibble adds up and that’s before you start factoring in toys, and treats. Let’s not even get started on the vet bills! Why do queer women spend so much of our disposable income on our pets? Is it the same for you? I know that my life wouldn’t be complete without pets, and I’m thrilled that every month here at Curve I’ll be bringing my love of animals, to all of you in this new web column!

According to the 2018 Autostraddle Lesbian Stereotypes Survey, most lesbians own cats. Conversely, the survey found that gay women aren’t more likely to own a dog than the average heterosexual. In fact, lesbians are more likely to own cats and reptiles than our straight friends. Whether or not dogs and other animals possess a “sexual identity” or exhibit long-term sexual preferences, homosexual behaviors have been documented in a wide variety of animals.