Here is the story of the man, the myth, the legend: Bob 🐶
Bob—a stray dog at the time—was hit by a car in Clarksville, TN. His hind legs were completely broken, dragging them behind him as he tried to walk. My sister Gretchen luckily happen to be driving by and rescued him. Animal control wanted to let him sit in pain and eventually euthanize him, but with my mom’s help, they were able to adopt Bob and help him.
Bob had to get stents put in — forever leaving him with straight hind legs. Initially, he faced challenges adjusting his new legs, including doing his famous handstands (due to the imbalance of his body) when he would eat and drink! Eventually he regained his strength and began living as any other normal dog would.
Despite his disability, Bob lived a long, amazing life that any dog would dream of. He traveled cross-country too many times to count (he’s been to more national parks than I have), he’s flown First Class, went to college with me at St. Bonaventure University for a bit, did a lot of hiking, and much, much more. Not to mention he was always a fast runner at the dog park!
Over the past decade, my brother Eric really took Bob in and helped him live his best, longest life. Together with Bob best friend, Poppy, they were inseparable. Unfortunately this week Bob crossed the Rainbow Bridge, leaving our hearts broken but full of gratitude for the 15 wonderful years we had with him. We believe he was about 20 years old—a truly remarkable life! I am forever grateful to my brother, sister, and my mom for saving Bob’s life and for allowing so many of us to experience and cherish the incredible spirit that Bob embodied.
So, why do I write about Bob on a travel blog?
Because Bob's life reminds us that adventure is a state of mind, not just a destination. He traveled more than most of us, not just across the country but through unimaginable challenges, always with a wagging tail and an unbeatable spirit.
Here are three lessons I’ve learned from Bob that are just as true for travelers as they are for life:
Don’t let the hardships of life prevent you from living yours. Bob faced challenges most would find insurmountable and still managed to thrive.
Travel as many places as you can. Whether it was hiking trails, national parks, or First Class flights, Bob never stopped exploring.
Always have a good attitude. You've already lived through your worst days. Keep moving forward.
Bob will always remind us to make most of life, travel far, and always put a smile on your face. Until we meet again, Bob. 🌈💜🐾
This was such a beautiful read. I too have gone through 4 rescue dogs. They were/are like family. You clearly provided Bob such a beautiful and long life.
Bob was such a wonderful friend!
My first dog crossed the rainbow bridge 3 years ago and it still gets me choked up sometimes. Bob lived such a wonderful life & I love the inspiration you’ve shared for us all to learn from! Thank you for sharing - this is the travel content I love ❤️
My son recently lost his dog and it broke all of our hearts. Gyspy saw him through cancer at 22, heartbreaks and family stress. She showed him love and always had a good attitude right to the end. And she loved to travel with him wherever he went. Lets hope his new puppy has the same adventurous spirit as Gypsy and your Bob.
Love the lessons Bob shared. Not letting hardships prevent you from living your life is such an important one, and so hard for many to do.