My wife, Sandi, and I, traveled to New England this past weekend, and we took along our two Golden Retrievers, Gus and Nellie. The weather was beautiful on Block Island, off the coast of Rhode Island, stark blue skies, low humidity and an ocean that was both clear and refreshing. Especially for our canine companions! Nellie, the youngest, adores water in general, but more specifically the ocean. She chased the tennis ball into the waves and ran on the sand with an abandon and joy beyond measure, and Gus did his usual tentative exploration of the salt waters, wading in up to his midsection, walking casually up and down the beach, as if to tell us that this experience was ok, but he was not all that excited. It is always nirvana for me to watch Gus and Nellie carefree and free on the beach, an event I would absorb every day of the year if I could only make it possible. We only got three days of it, but the entire weekend with our dear dogs was unforgettable.
Block Island is dog friendly. Dogs are allowed on the beaches almost all year long, and in most establishments, dogs are allowed. Sandi and I ate breakfast and dinner at several restaurants where dogs lay next to their owners and sat along side tables and chairs. It was pretty cool to see, and there were no problems whatsoever from the dogs in any of the places we ate. What a difference here in Philadelphia! I know that restaurants, stores and hotels exist here where dogs are welcomed and appreciated, but it seems rare to me. Yes, bad things can happen with dogs and there are possible allergies and accidents, but why can’t we be a bit more low-key about our wonderful four legged friends? I only wish I could bring a bit of Block Island down here – I think we might all be a little bit less stressed, more patient, more inclusive and a lot happier!
Here’s to dogs and the joy they bring – everywhere!
