RE: A companion dog wanted
Hello BlendedOils
In your search for a pooch you might like to try the DogsTrust (formerly National Canine Defence League) as they have kennels all around the country and try to match up the dog with you i.e. they won't just let anyone take them away if the dog/lifestlyes don't work. They also often have a background about the dog and won't let dogs that have behavioral problems be taken until they have had therapy! The downside is that you feel the dogs are very well looked after and might prefer to take a chance at a local kennels where the dogs are not as well treated but you know nothing about. (Depends if you are willing to take a risk).
You could also try rehoming an ex-racing/failed racer Greyhound as they require only three 20 min walks a day and are usually very docile. (Not always a good option if you have cats although some are OK), and if the theory that owners look like their dogs is true you will always look sleek and elegant!
You can also ask at your local vets as they often know of people who are looking to rehome pets.
For anyone reading this who, like me, no longer has a lifestlye that means they can have a dog, the Dogs Trust have a sponsor scheme where you can sponsor those that can't be rehomed due to problems (sometimes due to abuse rather than because they are naughty). You can visit them and buy them treats etc and sometimes take them walkies if you live nearby.
I'll shut up now - hope this is useful!