One of the great things about having a dog is that they get you out and into the fresh air, whether it’s a short, leisurely stroll or a moderate-to-strenuous hike. But one dog in particular is motivating even complete strangers to hit the trails near Seattle, Washington.
This friendly, black dog and his wanderlust ways shot to viral fame last week. A group of day hikers encountered him at the trailhead in North Bend to Teneriffe Falls.
The Dodo
Seattle resident, Scott Brown, explained that the dog met them just outside the parking lot on April 2 and decided to tag along on their hike. The dog was obviously loved and well cared for, so what was he doing all the way out there? Had he gotten separated from his people?
“He took the lead anywhere from a couple feet to way out in front, out of sight,” he said, even stopping and patiently waiting while the group took photos before continuing on their way.
Facebook
Eventually, curiosity got the better of the hikers, and they reached down to look at his tag, thinking this little hike might turn into a rescue and delivery operation.
But nope. Turns out the dog’s name is Smokey, and he lives somewhere near the trail head where they first met him.
Facebook
Hi, I’m Smokey. I live nearby so please don’t take me. I like to follow hikers sometimes.
And if they still had questions about this sweet dog’s home life, they were reassured when they turned the tag over and read this:
Facebook
Don’t worry, I’ll go home when I get tired. My people love me a lot. Thanks for being nice!
After some more dawdling, Smokey turned around with the group and accompanied them back to the parking lot, where he even stood by and watched as they removed their gear.
Then he “crossed the street and headed down the side road into the neighborhood”where he presumably lives, Scott wrote on Facebook.
Facebook
Other people have come forward since the story went viral to say they’ve been chaperoned to Teneriffe Falls by this friendly pooch, as well.
Meanwhile, others who haven’t had the pleasure of meeting him are now motivated more than ever to his this particular trail …
Facebook
You never know what you’re going to run across during an outdoors outing – deer, elk, or a volunteer guide who might even let you warm your arms around him to soak up some body warmth.
Watch this big fluffy sidekick wander the trails in the clip below, and share to warm some hearts!
Want to be happier in just 5 minutes a day? Sign up for Morning Smile and join over 455,000+ people who start each day with good news.