[pct-l] Dog hiking

[CMountainDave at aol.com (CMountainDave@aol.com)]

I'm not pro or con dog hiking since I don't even own a dog. But I always 
remember the Indian dogs at Havasu having a grand old time following the packers 
back and forth on their 14 mile round trip waterless journey from Supai to 
Hualapai Hilltop, usually two or three per pack train. One followed us on our way 
out. Whenever we stopped for a break, the dog immediately hit the shade. I 
must say, he was very well behaved and knew how to beg without being the least 
bit offensive about it -- no staring, no whimpering, etc. It was around 90 
degrees and we shared our water with him. I would imagine that would be a real 
problem on the long waterless stretches of the PCT, but if horses can do it ------

 Now these Indian dogs were far tougher than your average pooch. I would 
agree that most house dogs wouldn't stand a chance on the PCT. They don't get that 
much exercise and probably would wimp out after a few miles. But couldn't the 
same be said for the oh so common gravity challenged Americans that we hear 
soooo much about? As for feet, what about all the human ones that are forced to 
endure unspeakable torture hiking 2650 miles due to an uncompromising master. 
Where are THEIR advocates for mercy?

  Finally, it was a real shame about that black lab that chased the rabbit 
and had to be put down, but having witnessed those Indian dogs I think go back 
to my anti dogmatism shtick and say no rules, just decisions based on 
individual situations. If the guy screws up and his dog gets hurt it's on his 
conscience, not mine for having made the wrong decision. I've seen pack horses that 
have fallen off trails and died as a result. I can't say it's wrong for all 
horses to be on trails as a result of some mishaps, can I? Sitting here typing away 
I have no way of knowing the real situation so therefore I am not going to 
take a stand one way or the other. If that's considered aiding and abetting, so 
be it. And that's all I'm going to say about that     David C