My spaniel is a rough and tumble kind of guy. Throw a ball in the yard, find him a muddy puddle, take him to agility class or a jaunt to the beach – and he’s pretty much a happy camper for the rest of the day. But let’s face it, not all dogs (or people for that matter!) are like that. BT thinks any of the previously mentioned activities would be a horrendous way to spend 5 minutes, let alone an afternoon. She’s more of a “sit on the couch and steal your popcorn when you’re not looking” type, but that doesn’t mean she doesn’t enjoy a little outing and some change of scenery.
Finding an activity you and your dog will love can be as simple or elaborate as you’d like. I found on an online community that showcases groups in your area with specific interests, and found something more BT’s speed (like napping). It wasn’t long before I ran into the “Boston Terrier Meetup Group of Boston” and quickly decided that there couldn’t be a more appropriate activity for a lackadaisical Boston Terrier than a play date with her own kind in the city she originated from!
Getting BT to the city was actually easier than I thought it would be. Dogs are allowed on the Boston “T” at the driver’s discretion. So basically, as long as it isn’t rush hour with crowded trains, your dog is well behaved, and you’re courteous dog-owner dogs of all sizes and shapes are allowed on the public transportation.
The subway ride didn’t faze BT at all, and neither did the short walk to the Doggie Day Care where the Boston Terrier Meetup was held. My normally blasé dog was completely awakened by all the smells of the city! She clipped right along beside us at a brisk pace with her face planted against the ground to get all the smells. That’s the thing about having a short little nose, if you want to smell something you’ve got to put your whole face down there and just go for it!
Another big city favorite were the pigeons, who after a life of eating French fries around Quincy Market were almost as big as BT herself. She was fascinated by the cooing, swooping creatures and watched them fervently after several failed attempts at “saying hello.” We tried to snap a few pictures of BT enjoying Boston before heading to play group, but she was so excited to say hello to everyone and stare down pigeons that we had a hard time keeping her still for the pictures!
If BT thought the city of Boston itself was exciting, going to a play room filled with Boston Terriers was almost too much. And I admit, it was hilarious for me as an owner as well. Never before had I seen so many Bostons in one place, there were about 15* in the room exhibiting all things Boston Terrier. There was snorting, grunting, happy bouncing, and licks in the face all around. All the owners were sitting in the floor, and it wasn’t unusual for a completely random Boston to come up to you, jump in your lap, and snort in your face as if to say “Hello. I’m a Boston. I represent Bostons. I LOVE YOU! GottaGoPlayNowPleaseKThanks.” The vibe at the Boston Terrier Meetup was exactly what I hoped it’d be, a friendly group of people (and dogs!) who loved to keep their animals healthy and happy. A dog owner of any breed would probably feel the same way about taking their dog on such an outing.
*Author’s Note: Our BT is well socialized and friendly, but always slowly introduce your pet to a new group of dogs.
