Trips with our 4 legged free loaders

     When I was looking at hotels, I noticed that a lot of them were "pet friendly".  More pet friendly ones than ones that still allow smokers (yeah, I know, we need to quit.  But it's really hard when you have a lot of stress going on...but that's another story).  We would love to take our dogs,  Lori even asked if she could bring Rex, but that would mean leaving my dog Rugen behind.  

     See, there are dogs, and there are DOGS.  Rugen is the latter.  He's a Brazilian Mastiff, which means a cross between an English Mastiff and a Bloodhound.  He weighs in at 215 lbs.  He's happiest just lounging on the sofa, and really is a wonderful dog, just doesn't like strangers.  He loves going to camp and just sniffing things, at the dog park though he gets his "guard" mode on and stays near us..keeping an eye on things while Rex (rat terrier) runs around sniffing other dogs' buts, peeing on everything..and generally having a dog gone good time.

     Before getting Lil Blue, one of the key factors would be if it would work for us for going to our camp.  Had to be able to have enough trunk space for our stuff, and Rugen had to fit in the back seat, which he does.  He's fine back there, though a little "wobbly" when sitting up.  He can lay down too, but a bit cramped for him.  He's does good for short distances, riding around town, and for the hour or so it takes to go to camp.

     I don't think he could handle a road trip though.  He loves riding around, but he's more comfortable in the truck or suv.  Also, when ever we go exploring, we would want them with us (unless it's inside a store), and Rugen draws people to him which he really doesn't like.  He doesn't like most adults unless he knows them, and that takes a lot of time and doggie treats.  One time when we took him to the pet store, a small crowd gathered around him.  He really didn't like it.  He laid down, and shortly there after..he formed Lake Rugen.  The crowd of adoring people scattered, and I had to clean up the mess, which required a lot more than a few paper towels.  He adores little kids though.  The smaller the better.   Toddlers are his favorite.  He eats it up when they come up to him and pet and tug on his earls gently, etc.  But adults?  Nothing to do with them.  So, dogs are staying home sadly.  I wish we could include them on our road trip, but Rugen would be happier at home with the sofa and cable tv.  I'm just glad we have good neighbors that Rugen likes that will take care of them and keep them company.  At least I know they're in good hands.