At 5AM in urban France a growling menace prowls the pavement. A mechanized menace but a brute all the same. Water trucks and cleaners hose the previous days refuse away before people rise.

The bulk of this refuse is the product of one of Frances obsessions. The humble dog enjoys a privileged existence here. Meticulously groomed dogs enjoy taking owners for walks. They also enjoy depositing doggy waste and generally lording it up.

Even the seemingly stray dogs are happy and well fed. I also have noticed it is common for the odd street beggar to have a nice looking dog alongside a modest looking bowl or cap.

Even the humble dog advertising placard has taken on new dimensions in France.

Exhibit A

Exhibit B

France has surely gone to the dogs. Where are ze cats?