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An elderly woman in a gray sweater sits in an old truck cab while a red-gold Golden Retriever sits proudly in front. 23 / 36

Copper Climbed Into the Front Seat and Looked Ready to Navigate

AI imagegolden retrieverpickup truckroad trip

There is a faded blue bench seat, an old steering wheel and a window full of neighborhood houses, and Grandma Odessa looks quietly pleased behind it all. She wears a gray sweater with a small gold earring, her silver curls neat and her expression gentle and content. Copper takes up the whole foreground, upright and proud on the seat, his red-gold fur glowing, brown eyes looking straight ahead and a brown collar at his neck. He looks like a professional co-pilot, ears relaxed and mouth slightly open as if he is about to give directions. The street outside is calm.

Riding with a dog is a happy routine, but it should be done safely. A loose dog in a vehicle can be hurt in a sudden stop and can distract the driver. A crash-tested harness that attaches to a seat belt, or a secured crate, is the safest choice for most dogs. Never let a dog ride in the bed of a truck, and keep their head inside the windows to protect their eyes from debris. Bring water for longer trips, and never leave a dog in a parked car, since temperatures climb very quickly. Retrievers are usually calm travelers, but short practice rides with treats can help any dog get comfortable.

Wherever they are headed, the destination matters less than the company. Copper is ready, and Grandma Odessa has the keys.

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