Grandpa Ken Was Supposed to Watch the Road. Mochi Had Other Plans.
The engine hasn't even turned over yet, and Mochi is already grinning. Grandpa Ken sits behind the wheel of his well-worn pickup in a soft brown sweater, collared shirt peeking out at the neck, glasses perched just so. He has turned to look at his fawn Pug instead of the road, and his smile says this is the best part of any errand. Mochi sits tall on the bench seat in a blue collar, tongue out, wrinkles arranged in pure delight. Through the windshield, a white porch and potted plants wait in the hazy morning light.
Pugs make wonderful car companions, but a few habits keep them safe. Because they are a flat-faced breed, they can overheat quickly, so never leave one in a parked vehicle, even for a short stop on a mild day. Keep the cab cool and well ventilated, and bring water on longer drives. A crash-tested harness or a secured travel crate is a smarter choice than a loose dog on the seat, since sudden stops can send a small pup tumbling. Letting a Pug hang its head out an open window looks charming, but flying grit can irritate those big, prominent eyes. If your dog gets anxious or carsick, short practice trips and a talk with your vet can help.
Some people go for a drive to get somewhere. Grandpa Ken and Mochi seem to go mostly for the company, and the hardware store is just an excuse. With a copilot that cheerful, every trip down the road feels like a small celebration.
