Page 32 - 9 Spring 2023 Newsletter

definitely helps having taught him to
turn left and right on voice command!
When my last car had died its death,
I had 5 new cars to go view in a day,
but as plentiful as the buses are in
our area, the random locations were
impossible by bus route. So Brody
and I set off on a circular route
around the suburbs, a 20 mile round
trip, interspersed by car viewings into
the city and back – all by bike! I was
most impressed with our mutual
achievement. Canal tow paths are a
…and dancing… much more pleasant, restful and less
I’m looking forward to the warmer risky route though my favourite are
weather when Brody and I can paddle seaside beach paths.
board together again. In the Brody has such a constant pace,
meantime, I have found no more running beside me cycling, he
efficient and enjoyable way of looks like a long-distance runner,
exercising - both dog and owner - striding out. Clearly loving every
than cycling together.
minute. Brody trotting alongside me
brings many a “coo” or a car honk.
However, the one pitfall is when
poo-time calls!! Oh BOY does he pull
up sharply! This is the only time he
has ever nearly had me off my bike!
To go from several mph cycling speed
to suddenly slamming his brakes on,
with NO notice, nor even gearing
down, Brody suddenly has the
strength of an Ox in being able to
bring me to a halt, like a donkey
digging it’s hooves in. When a dog’s
gotta go – he’s just GOTTA GO! Right
As you can imagine, I was incredibly there and then! Whether mid stretch
cautious at first - imagining Brody’s of road, negotiating a corner, when
incessant sniffing, continuous walking my bike half way across a
zigzagging, or want to dart after road! or even at traffic lights – when
other dogs, sending me flying over the lights are green of course!!
the handlebars or, worse, under a Poo-time is never so urgent, instant,
car…! But 2 years of cycling together or immoveable as when we are
has seen not one such incident. He cycling together! Something to
runs beside me, to heel on my left, definitely improve on . . .
like clockwork, attached via my belt
lead around my waist, adjusted so as It is lonely being a Kees parent. We
not too much leeway!! And an extra long to hang out with others of our
bottle of water, of course. It kind so it was uplifting, as ever, and

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