AT Happiness: My Dog Friends

Those of you who know me well know that I’m not always comfortable around other people’s dogs.  Many people don’t have control over their animals and usually when a dog becomes aggressive it’s proceeded by the words, “he won’t bother you.”

I understand people’s strong emotions around their pets and frankly I was leary about the idea of thru-hiking dogs.  Dogs are not allowed on parts of the trail like the Smokies.  I am still not convinced it’s a good idea and there have been some negatives.  A very large black dog made an aggressive move at me, two others have growled at me and others.

However, the majority have been well behaved, friendly, and well controlled.  My biggest surprise has been my comfort around a large doberman hiking the trail.

Even more so a few dogs have become my friends on the trail and we’re happy to see each other when we meet.  Early on I met a sweet Portuguese water dog and two miniature Italian Greyhounds, all who are now unfortunately off the trail.

But here are a few of my dog friends from the trail.

Bella looks mean as hell in this pic but is a super mellow dog particularly fond of having her ears scratched.

Lila is a super playful pup who has worn out many a hiker playing fetch, she’s absolutely tireless.

Ginger is my favorite, like Lila she’s a rescue, she doesn’t like other dogs and is fiercely loyal and protective of her owner, Dewdog.  They have a really amazing bond. She’s super mellow when you first meet her but quickly turns into an 80 pound lap dog once you become friends.

Our fellow dog hikers have certainly given us some happy days my friends – Rev Kane