Like peas in a pod

Hello Everyone,

The first time I rode the ferry from Vancouver to Victoria, I was eight years old and on a trip visiting my great aunt and great grandmother. It was awesome. Growing up in a flat, mainland area, seeing the ocean and mountains made a big impression. I also got to eat in the ship's cafeteria, which was a rare treat for me then. I still remember getting chicken fingers on a paper boat shaped like the ferry. The mountains were great and all, but that was awesome. Since then, I've rode the ferry several times, but that first one is always special.

Yesterday was Arthur's first time riding the ferry, and while it wasn't bad, I don't think he'll remember it with as much fondness. With the camper on the truck, I had to park in one of the lower levels. But in doing so, it meant that I couldn't stay in the vehicle with Arthur, and since I didn't want to leave him alone while the ship rumbled and shook, I took him up to the pet area a floor above.

I had looked up taking pets on the ferries and knew I would likely have to go to the pet area. What I didn't know was that the pet area was a tiny room with uncomfortable benches and a bare metal floor. There were four other dogs in there, so space was tight. In an unfamiliar area, on a rumbling ship, packed in with other dogs, it wasn't exactly a Riviera cruise for Arthur. He curled up behind my legs and snarled at another dog, a puppy who was excited and came too close.

But we made it, and we found our way to my old roommate Taylor's house. There Arthur met Sophie's old roommate Caqui. They had met once before, but that was outdoors, where they could run around. I was a little worried that they wouldn't get along in confined spaces, such as Tay's basement apartment.

My concerns, however, were not borne out. When we arrived, both dogs ran around the backyard, taking turns peeing on things, and then each took up a dog mat in the living room. They can be a little territorial, but seem to respect each other's quirk in that way. It's like they both know they were street dogs, and respect each other for it. The streets of Sao Paulo, Caqui's hometown, are admittedly a lot tougher than Arthur's birthplace, but the winters are a lot harsher in Ottawa.

Today, Arthur and I went up to Duncan and biked at one of the mountains there. It was a beautiful day, and when we came back both dogs were excited to see each other. They again went around the yard, alternately peeing on the same bush and are now contentedly asleep on mats in the living room. Caqui on Arthur's, and Arthur on mine.

wes