Gus Let the Tailgate Down and Domino Listened to Every Word
The field is hazy, the sky is pale and Gus has all the time in the world. He sits on the dented tailgate of his old truck in a plaid shirt and green fishing vest, smiling as he scratches Domino under the chin. The pied French Bulldog sits in the grass at his feet with his tongue just showing and his bat ears turned forward, listening carefully. A wooden fence post and a stretch of dry grass fade into the distance, and a thin trail of mist hangs over the far trees.
Frenchies love being included in their person's outings, and a quiet tailgate stop is the sort of low-key adventure they enjoy. Even so, a few details matter. A tailgate or truck bed is not a safe place for a dog to ride or to jump from, because a fall can injure his back and legs. Keep him on a leash near roads and fields, and check him for ticks, burrs and foxtails afterward, especially around the ears, paws and skin folds. Always bring water, since flat-faced dogs overheat quickly. In cool weather, a Frenchie may need a coat, since their short fur gives little protection from the cold.
Gus tells him a story and Domino tilts his head in all the right places. The field is quiet, the day is calm and nobody is waiting for either of them. It's a modest stop on an ordinary day, but this is the kind of moment that stays in the memory long after the long drive home is forgotten.
