Now into Rocket’s second year of life with us, we find ourselves providing Rocket with some of his favorite things. Rocket has many favorites, including swimming. Rocket does not hesitate to jump into a pond, river, or puddle to fetch anything from a ball, stick, or frisbee. Sometimes, he will jump into the water and swim to be with his people, to chase one of us in a kayak, or just because one of his “friends” is in the water swimming. One of his favorite runs includes jumping over a small creek that runs at the back of our property. He is so proud of himself for leaping so far! Once he has made his successful leap, he will often walk into the creek and lower himself into the water so that only his head is sticking out.
Rocket absolutely loves to hike. It doesn’t matter where or when we go, it doesn’t matter who goes, it only matters that we go! Out on the trail, whether it is in the country, city streets, or hilly forest, Rocket likes to lead the way. Rocket has made great progress over the last two years when it comes to walking/hiking. In the beginning, he would pull on the lead, panting and choking himself as he struggled to stay at the front of the pack. With lots of training, practice and patience, and even trial and error, we have finally made it to a place where hikes and walks can be pleasant and relaxing. Often, we drop the lead and allow Rocket (along with Frank) to walk at their own leisure. We use long leads which allow us to grab them quickly should another dog or hiker come into our area. Rocket listens very well and stops and waits or returns to us if he gets too far ahead. While he continues to enjoy to lead the hike, he has relaxed a great deal and no longer stresses when Frank moves to the front.
Vacations are always an exciting time for Rocket. It begins when he realizes that the bags and camper are being packed. Hot on our heels, every word we use is carefully chosen during these pre-vacation days so that we keep him calm and try to distract him from the upcoming event. Otherwise, he works himself up into a barking, whining, and hyper stage that isn’t fun for anyone. When it is time to leave, he jumps into the truck and keeps watch during the entire drive. A seat belt is used to keep him in place; he is not a good passenger as he likes to hop around from front of truck to back and cannot sit still. The seat belt ensures our safety while driving, as well. Once we get to our destination, Rocket can sense the fun that is about to take place! He immediately begins to take in his surroundings, smelling all the new scents, and identifying his perceived boundaries. It isn’t long before he is on the trail doing what he loves most…hiking and swimming. He also enjoys the frequent stops at dog-friendly restaurants, convenience stores, and ice cream shops!!!
Rocket’s favorite place in the house is the basement. It is a finished basement with lots of comfy resting spots, and although the humans of the house are usually upstairs, Rocket feels safe in the basement. During his first weeks and months with us, we would put Rocket in the basement when we went away. He had food and water, bones and chews, blankets, couches, and bean bags to lay on. A spot by the garage door and the bean bag in the library were his favorite spots in those early days. Today, Rocket still feels safe in the basement. Sometimes, he will run down the stairs when he is frightened. The sound of the ice machine dropping cubes, plastic bottles that make crackling sounds, and thunderstorms all send Rocket running to those favorite spots to this day.
Of all of Rocket’s favorite things, one stands out above all else. Rocket loves to be with people, especially his people. When Rocket is active, he continually keeps an eye on his owners. If we are outside, Rocket stays within a few yards of us, if we are in the house, he stays a few feet from us. Rocket follows us from living room to kitchen, and even to the bathroom! When we are settled in, Rocket is always as close as he can be. He will either lay against us, on us, or a portion of his body must be touching ours!
If only humans could be as devoted as dogs…