There’s something unsettling about seeing an ape in captivity. Maybe because, if you look at us under the microscope, humans aren’t much different.
animals
Wandering Justin – Friend of the Black Cats
Okay, this has nothing to do with travel or adventurin’ … but I really should stay out of the cat adoption area at PetSmart. There was a young black cat in there who looked just like a young version of my buddy Noir. And acted like it. He saw me come into the room and immediately meowed and rubbed up against the bars of his cage.
There’s something about black cats – they all seem to love me. Even in Reykjavik – we were walking along and spotted a black cat lounging on the sidewalk. He meowed up a storm as he came over for a petting. He even rolled over on his back for a tummy rub. I suppose this black cat affinity could’ve gotten me burned at the stake a few hundred years ago!
This cat at PetSmart … I would’ve taken him home, but Noir doesn’t get along with other animals – humans only. He’s probably 14 years old, so he’s pretty much earned the right to enjoy his life. Another cat would make him miserable.
In the meantime, note to self: No more looking at cats up for adoption!
Dog in Hot Tub Soils Reliable Hotel
I’ve lost count of the number of times I’ve stayed at the Travelodge on Butler Avenue in Flagstaff, Ariz. It’s been a haven for its reasonable price, hot tub, sauna and proximity to good food.
But it’s time to pull up stakes and find a new place. I think the low prices have pulled in a new sort of clientele that doesn’t seem to have any clue how to behave in a hotel. I didn’t think “don’t put your dog in the hot tub” would need to be among the written pool rules. The band of hillbillies during my last visit, however, proved me wrong.
Even worse, the staff didn’t seem interested in doing anything about it. I didn’t even see any sign that they cleaned the hot tub after learning that some people mistook it for a dog bath.
A bummer, that is. I was really looking forward to a good soak after a day on the slopes. But I got deprived of an amenity I always enjoyed. But now, I kind of regret my frequent trips to the Travelodge hot tub. I can’t help what else has floated in there unchecked over the years.
See ya, Travelodge on Butler. It’s been a good run. But no more. If you’re headed to Flagstaff, don’t be tempted by the price. Unless you’re comfortable with the possibility of splashing around with someone else’s hound.
Oscar the Puppy Needs You!
Attention, Mountain Bike Monday fans! I’m pre-empting this week’s regularly scheduled feature to answer the call of a puppy in need. Read on!
Imagine what it’s like to be Oscar. This golden retriever/German shepherd mix was abandoned in an empty house with his littermate, left behind by the sort of people who shouldn’t have pets.
That’s when the mighty Doug burst into the house. My ol’ mountain bike buddy and his special lady friend were cruising around in Miami, Ariz., recently checking out houses. Something led them to this particular abandoned house. Good thing for Oscar and Molly, his sister.
Doug wasn’t about to ignore two puppies in need. So he loaded them up and took them home to care for them.
Here’s where it gets rough: Doug is about to head into some serious hip surgery, and he won’t be able to care for Oscar during his long recovery. He’s already found a home for Molly, but Oscar needs someone who will be able to keep up with him and his puppy antics. Plus Doug’s landlord isn’t cool with dogs, apparently.
This is one of those times when it’s really hard to be a travelin’ man with a dictatorial, possessive, territorial, imperialistic ol’ tomcat lording over the house. My frequent absences are okay for an independent animal, but the situation wouldn’t be very good for a dog.
So Oscar needs you, if you’re an big-hearted animal (even better if you have a yard to match that big heart). In exchange for taking him in, he’ll be your [...]
