The sun is barely peeking over the mountain when the dogs and I head for our walk. The Cascade lumber trail has long been a favorite path for us. Baron heads the pack, his black German Shepherd tail pointing straight up as if to say “It’s this way folks! Follow me!” I let him lead. I know that dogs are pack animals and some people insist that the human needs to be in front. I know differently. I have gained respect with these formerly abused creatures. Even if I lag behind them, should I suddenly change direction and head the other way, they would soon join me.

The alders, mountain ash and pine trees loom overhead. The trail is shaded and peaceful…the only sounds; the chirping of the birds and the panting of dogs…ok, this human is also panting as parts of the trail are steep! We round the bend and are confronted with a fallen cottonwood tree. It stretches across the path barring the way. The dogs quickly duck under the highest point and look back at me as if say “Where are you? It’s easy, just try it!”

I look at their entry point and decide that although the limbo was a favorite game for me back in grade-school, my fifty year old back couldn’t go that low these days. Instead, I grab an exisitng branch and laboriously hoist myself over the tree grateful that no one with a video camera is recording the event. I’d hate to see THAT on YouTube! The dogs still excited at their prospective walk gather around me. Kodie licks my hand as if to offer me sympathy that I am not limber enough to follow their lead in this case. Baron, in his two-year old wisdom just leans on me offering his support as we continue to trudge up the mountain.

Baron is such a puppy! Although at two years old, most German Shepherds are settling in and the brain has kicked into gear in regards to behavior, Baron retains all the traits of puppyhood, having been denied his own. He was created for breeding purposes only in a puppy mill. His testicles never descended, leaving him in danger of being euthanized because he was of no use to the breeder. Instead, he now lives with us, still fully intact although he shows no stud tendencies. No aggression to females, even ones he meets when they are in heat. He is a joy to watch as he romps through the grasses and crashes into the underbush following scents.

I wish I shared these dogs joyful abandon. They greet each day with such pleasure and don’t get caught up in their past. All that matters to them is that they now have two humans in their lives who love them. They are never beaten or scared or intimidated. Their food bowls are always full- their water bowls filled daily and their presence brings us as much joy as they are now finding in this morning walk in the woods.