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A smiling older man in a knit cap and vest drives a pickup while a fawn French Bulldog in a collar sits upright on the seat. 4 / 34

Grandpa Gus Started the Old Truck. Waffles Climbed Up Like a Co-Pilot.

AI imagefrench bulldogpickup truckroad trip

Both hands rest on the big old steering wheel, and Grandpa Gus is grinning under his dark knit cap. His green vest bristles with pens and little tools, his white mustache curls up with his smile, and he is looking sideways at the passenger. Waffles sits tall on the cracked gray bench seat in a blue collar, ears up, nose lifted, as though he is the one giving directions. Through the truck's windows, a warm house with lamps and framed photos glows on one side. It is a cozy, well-worn cab where every dent has a story.

Many dogs love rides, but they need a few safety habits. Dogs should not roam loose in a moving vehicle, because a sudden stop can hurt them or distract the driver. A crash-tested harness that buckles into the seat belt, or a secure travel crate, keeps small dogs steady. Never leave a dog in a parked vehicle, even for a few minutes, because cars heat up fast, and Frenchies are especially sensitive to heat. Keep windows cracked only enough that he cannot jump out or poke his head far, and bring water for longer trips. Ask your vet if your dog tends to get carsick, and take breaks on longer drives.

Gus pulls out of the driveway slowly, and Waffles settles in for the ride. The destination may be the hardware store or the lake, but the best part of the trip is the company.

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