Have Dog, Will Travel

In the B.D. era (“Before Dog”), I thought the bumper sticker “Dog is My Co-pilot” was really corny. Not that I preferred the original one (a different arrangement of the letters in “dog”), but I just didn’t understand the whole canine-adoration thing.

Now, as many community members can attest, my 85-pound Golden-doodle rides shot-gun while my kids are at school and waits in the driver’s seat while I’m in the grocery store or Starbuck’s. I often return to the car to see strangers taking photos of Bauer behind the wheel.

In our three years together, Bauer has become my best friend and constant companion. He sleeps on a large pillow in the bedroom, and when my husband is away (which is often, as he’s a management consultant), I am comforted by the rhythmic breathing of another being.

During the day, Bauer spends most of his time in my home office, where I work as a writer and editor. He has a special place under my desk, in a corner, and literally warms my feet for hours on end.

When I’m out and about, Bauer is always by my side—for walks in the park, drives to the store and even road trips to Whistler. I recently realized that because of Bauer, I never feel lonely or afraid. So, in this post I’ll permit myself to appreciate all that he provides:

Constant Companionship –No matter what he’s doing, he will drop everything to join me if I just ask, “Car?” “Walk?” or “Beach?” (Of course, the range of what he “drops” is quite limited: napping, eating, chasing flies or trying to engage the cat in play.)

Fresh Air – During Seattle’s dark and rainy period (November through March), I would prefer to stay inside with a good book and warm cup of tea. However, because Bauer needs exercise and loves seeing his “friends,” I force myself to don the rain boots and slicker and head to the dog park.

To read about Bauer’s others gifts (including “Protection” and “Popularity by Association”), click here for the entire Permission Slips post. and I take turns updating our blog every week. If you would like to subscribe, email PermissionSlips1@gmail.com.