Don’t Throw Bibi out with the Bath Water

Out of the forest they came, creating this strange silhouette in the trees.  By my side me Clover stands at rapt attention, also confused by the shape.   As we get close along the deep wooded path the figures emerge from the tall undergrowth.

To my great surprise, coming towards us, bumbling along on the rugged path are two older women pushing a baby carriage.  Along side I make out the shape of a small dog.  Out of courtesy I put Clover, my own dog back on his leash and  together we continue our way along the dark path, all the while squinting to make out further the approaching fellow wanderers.

Squinting and clearing my eyes, I can not believe what it is I am seeing.  There, reclining gracefully in the baby carriage is a small black poodle, greying about the face due to age.  My face breaks into a huge smile and I hold my camera in the air, (international code for “can I take your photo”).

With friendly faces the women return my excitement.  I rapidly snap images in awe of what I am seeing, with equal speed I fire off hundreds of questions at the ladies.  “How old, Is it blind, can it walk…” to my surprise the dog lazily slides out of the stroller and stiffly stands beside it on trembling legs.

The one friendly woman starts telling me the story.  The little dog is called Bibi and yes, she is blind in one eye and the other eye is completely missing.  She is 16 years old and has had major back surgery, but is now very happy with her daily rides through the forest in her baby stroller.  She can hop out when she wishes but mostly she just likes to go along for the ride.

Amazing, I say to them and we continue along, with me surrendering my walk plans and falling into pace with this little group.   From time to time they take turns who pushes the stroller, these two best friends.  While Clover flitted and chased their other little female who provides lead on their walks.

In the parking lot,  I gave them my card and offered them copies of the photos.  I let them know I was going to write about them and show off their wonderful gift to this precious creature.  Their faces lit up at the thought.  Such a simple gesture for all the years of friendship this little creature has provided.  Some may think this story is sad or in that fact the images, but it honestly isn’t, these ladies and their precious cargo are all tremendously happy together…living out their days on friendly chat filled walks in the forest…with their favorite companions.