We just returned from our trip to check out a new home for Sandy. It's a place I've been to many times and it holds a special place in my heart. Desert. Mysterious. Quiet. Lots of water and animals. Satellites silently move across the black sky as the Milky Way makes a stripe from horizon to horizon.
As we arrived in the afternoon it was windy and hot. A long dusty road vibrated our poor truck. The road crossed many washes and skirted alluvial fans. Sections washed out by flash floods and covered with boulders had been bulldozed clear. Mining relics sat deteriorating in the penetrating sun. As we got closer to water, wind hissed in the trees. Palms swayed. A few coyotes were patrolling the area and a half dozen burros came over to check on us. Ten feet away, they were both comical and hungry. Just wary enough to be well mannered. I shooed them away to make room for our camp. We looked for some shade. Where's my hat?
All our dogs were there and we kept them leashed. Sandy too. A gang of hungry coyotes might not be as welcoming as we'd like. A lizard sped by.
By the next day it became apparent this was not the place for her. To sparse. Too much competition for resources. No one to help her get a foot hold. Lot's of glorious warm flowing water, but too little else.
That night we had Sandy on a leash and close. She was upset and could not settle, so Liye moved closer and touched her for reassurance. With a companion next to her, Sandy could calm down and sleep a bit. Her trust in Liye was enough to overcome the fear of the hissing trees, the strange new place and the coyotes she had seen earlier. As the light returned I got up and made some coffee. It seems a burro had come by and wandered off with a couple of things. The dogs would not be calm and dearly wanted to be untied.
So we soaked in the hot springs and bid our farewell. Headed for home knowing we had made the right choice. Now we look at the next alternative and have a chance to enjoy more time with this sincere little family member. Once back she joyously played and ran circles around the house. Retrieved a lost glove to chew. Chased a cottontail out into the brush. Searched my hand for a treat and was free of the leash.
Once again we were reminded of what a great traveller she is. In the cab of the pickup she sleeps happily and gets organized with Bei Bei for the slim available space. Hours slip by as she stretches out and dreams. Cute. A regular domestic dog in every way. No matter where she is, she wants to be with her pack members. We sat outside this evening and watched it get dark as the dogs played. She seems happiest of all with everyone at home and slips right back into all the little things she loves to do here.
It may not seem like it at times, but we actually do have a busy life and lots to do. I have a business and am building our new house. I go riding in the mountains and friends are always stopping by. But this dog has become a big part of what we do. She is just so interesting and fun and trusting that we can't resist her.
