I first learned about the BARK Ranger program from our friends at Go Pet Friendly. I immediately became interested because Arizona has three national parks that participate in the program, and we have a lot of upcoming travel plans. I thought the BARK Ranger program would be a great way to get to know different national parks while being an important part of the experience. Wynston was first sworn in as a BARK Ranger at Montezuma Castle National Monument, and we want to share more about what that means, along with photos from our trip!
9 Ways to Build Your Dog’s Confidence
People often ask me how Wynston has become so confident and well-behaved. I even hear comments from strangers such as, “Wow! Look at him pose for the picture with all these distractions! How do you keep him so focused?” It all comes down to confidence. Wynston went from being a fearful, emaciated puppy to a brave, courageous boy. But how has he come so far? Wynston is so confident that he can fly on an airplane without anxiety, explore new trails without fear and sit in a loud expo hall without freaking out. I’m going to share nine ways to build your dog’s confidence based on our experience and success.
Dog-Friendly Butcher Jones Trail in Arizona
I don’t consider Wynston and I to be “hikers.” Although we enjoy hiking, I have to keep strenuous activity to a minimum due to my osteoarthritis. Typically I come across trails that I’m interested in while exploring wilderness areas. That’s how I found Butcher Jones Trail. Wynston and I were visiting Butcher Jones rec area when I noticed a trail head off the coast of the beach. When we decided to hike the trail a week later, we weren’t disappointed. The dog-friendly Butcher Jones Trail is an intermediate hike which offers breathtaking views.
Our Upcoming Trip to Lake Havasu + 4Knines Car Seat Cover Giveaway!
I’ve lived in Arizona for 20 years, but as I’ve become more well-traveled in the last couple of years I’ve realized that I’ve seen so little of our beautiful state. Sure, I’ve been to all of the major areas of Arizona and I’ve experienced tourist sites like the Grand Canyon and Tombstone, but there is so much I have yet to explore. Recently my stepdad took a trip to Lake Havasu, AZ and that was my inspiration for our upcoming trip. Wynston and I are heading there on February 20th, and 4Knines is our sponsor! To celebrate, we’re giving away a 4Knines car seat cover of the winner’s choice.
Our Visit to Saguaro Lake and Butcher Jones Recreation Site
I’m dedicating 2019 to adventure and stepping outside my comfort zone. On days where I’m feeling less than adequate, rather than isolating myself and staying in my hermit cave, I leave my house instead. I find that when I get out into nature and explore new places with Wynston all of my worries disappear. One of my goals for this year is to travel around more of Arizona and truly enjoy everything The Grand Canyon State has to offer. So on a cloudy February day, we headed to Saguaro Lake and stopped at Butcher Jones Recreation Site to see what all the hype is about.
