Bo our beloved friend and family member passed on today. He was 17 years old, which for a dog is at least two lifetimes. I first met Bo in 1994 when Janet and I got together. Bo and I shared many adventures both in the mountains and on the river. He was a valiant little dog that never seemed to tire. He tried new things readily. He eluded the Santa Fe Animal Control more than once and was proud of it. He liked riding in the raft and running rivers. During the drought years, it was said that Bo had seen more whitewater than most guides on the Rio Grande. He was happy and active almost to the end. We will miss that annoying bark and the constant shadowing.  We love you Bo.

    Get your stuff and go hiking or walking or something. Life’s short.

    Happy Birthday Rio! We spent the night at the Rio Grande Rendevous last night where Rio was entertained by drummers and firedancers.  Here he is making a wish on his yogurt pancake. I think his wish was to make that pancake bigger.

    What can we say about this. Just the idea is repulsive.

Outdoor Summer Adventures with your Dog

     Summer is a great time for you and your dog to get out and enjoy the outdoors together. Whether you like to hike, backpack, camp, or go boating, your dog is always ready and willing to go. Here are some suggestions for enriching your outdoor experiences this summer. Take plenty of water and snacks for you and your dog. A collapsible water dish is an important item to take everywhere with you. Never assume that there will be plenty of water on your hike.

    If you want to go backpacking this summer, take the time to find a comfortable pack for your dog.  Dogs should be expertly fit with a pack that is properly sized and can carry a balanced load of food and water. Some other items that you might need are a fleece coat for your dog if you are going into the high country and their own blanket and pad. You can spend the night with a dog trying to get into your sleeping bag or prepare for this ahead of time, especially in the rain. If you are hiking or backpacking for long distances, don’t forget to bring dog paw wax or booties for their paws.

     Boating on lakes or rivers can be fun with your dog. Even though all dogs can swim, a life jacket for your dog is a good idea, particularly around moving water. Whether the dog stays in the boat or not, they will be protected from rocks, obstacles, or fatigue.

    Some local rafting companies will gladly take your well behaved dog down the river.  Certain sections of the
Rio Grande and Rio Chama are dog friendly and good places to test your best friend’s enthusiasm for river running.  Try canoeing or kayaking on one of
New Mexico’s beautiful lakes. What ever it is, get out there and have some fun with your dog this summer!