walking the dog

I've started taking my black labrador retriever on walks at the nearest recreation center to where I live. I figured it would be a worthwhile investment of time to take him to a new place where he can test his nostril skills out on some new turf. He has lost his vision as well as his hearing so his nose is about all he has left. He uses it for everything. It's so refreshing to see him following his nose as we take our walk on sidewalks, through fields and on trails.

Anyway, the first time we went on our adventure he had no idea where I was taking him. He thought he was going to the Vet, and since that was the case he was clueless as to what fun he was about to have. The second time, however, he was so excited to hop in the car that he was shaking. He was ready to go!

The walks have gone well so far. I just need to keep it up! It's hard to drive the dog 15-20 minutes to the recreation facility where we go on our adventures. I'd be easier if I perhaps lived ON the recreation grounds. That'd be the life. But he and I we're on our way to happier days and happier nights, primarily a result of our walks together.