The Hiker Girl's Best Friend

Whoever said "diamonds are a girl's best friend" more than likely did not have a dog as cool as mine. As an extravagant animal lover, I have always preached that animals are better companions than humans. Period. End of story. And if you are someone that spends as much time ambling around in the wilderness as I do, then the best investment you will ever make for yourself, is in a canine companion.

Meet Roscoe.

Allow me to enlighten you with my reasons why any mountain woman, should have a mountain dog:

1. Protection.

As a young, 24 year old female (one that frequently hikes solo with air pods and a blissful ignorance to everything except my own focused breathing, and the trail in front of me), my dog is my eyes and ears. Roscoe greets all other humans on the trail with nothing but the upmost suspicion, and the occasional growl, that basically says, "Touch my mama, and you'll feel my wrath!" I love it. The security and self assurance that comes with having a protective side kick is worth every awkward encounter on the trail where you have to apologize for having a hiking companion that likes to sniff butts.

2. Dogs can't talk.

Don't like annoying small talk, but like having a friend to enjoy your hikes with you? Get a dog. Or, maybe you DO enjoy small talk, in which case, you should still get a dog, because more likely than not, random people on the trail will stop you to say hello to your pooch-face giving you an opportunity to socialize with fellow hiker friends. It is the best of both worlds!

4. Motivation.

Whenever the going gets tough, and the rocks get unsteady, your knees feel weak, and your body is burning, take a good look at the eager face in front of you, with the lopping tongue, and the unwavering confidence that you can make it to the top. My dog's belief in me inspires my own belief in myself. Long ago, I heard the phrase, "Be the person your dog thinks you are." and this expression has since lived in my heart.

3. Entertainment.

If you are like me, and delight and marvel over the small things, then you understand why I say this. Dogs are hilarious. Furthermore, getting Roscoe to pose for my pictures, is an incessant source of amusement for me as well, as I get to try and capture all of his goofy expressions.

(See below)

Good boy, Roscoe!