Tails on Trails

Tails on Trails

No, I’m not going to discuss Pink Blazing, although that’s always an interesting topic. No, I’m going to give some love to my boxer, POTUS (trail name), who’s my favorite hiking buddy. Dogs on trails are a controversial topic among the thru-hiker community and I have been berated many times for bringing my dog on the trail. The truth is that my dog and I move as one when we’re on trail. I’m constantly watching out for him, although it’s not always apparent. He’s like a child to me.

Dog Love

POTUS loves the trails. When I start packing my pack, he can’t stop sniffing and pawing it (his way of showing interest). I have to wait until the moment we leave for the trails before I pull out his pack, so he doesn’t become over-excited ahead of time. What I will tell you is this, I love this pup so much that his needs and wants have dominated my last year of prep. My tent is roomy enough for us both; sleeping bag large enough to cover both of us; I research as much about his health more than mine. We are bonded in this!!!

My favorite part of the day is when I stop to talk to people on the trail and I see POTUS doing his happy roll on the trail.

I love having my dog on the trail!!! He’s sweet, super social, loves other dogs, is on voice recall, and lets me know when enough is enough for him. Tomorrow we’re taking our first zero, so that he can rest. He was really dragging today and tomorrow the weather is going to be nasty. It’s time to rest for us both. Sometimes I think he knows more than I do….

Happy tails on Trails from Georgia to Maine.