On the Trail With Dayle: An Ode to Nox
"I don’t really like to go for a walk without a dog.” Why is that? “A dog gives a walk a purpose.” How? “Well, you are making someone else happy."
-Jane Goodall, The Book of Hope: A Survival Guide for Trying Times
Last week, someone asked me if I was a “dog person.” “Yes,” I said without hesitation.
I do not currently have my own dog, but I love to take care of other people’s dogs. For years, I have referred to these other canines as “loaner dogs.” They have come in all shapes, sizes and temperaments—and have stayed with me for varying lengths of time.
Nox, who recently crossed over the metaphorical rainbow bridge, was the best loaner dog ever. He was a silky border collie with a lopsided gait and a permanent half smile on his lips. Both came from an accident in his early sheep-herding days. It was Nox who introduced me to the joys of the Main Street to the Mountain trails via Peets Hill in my early Bozeman days.
During my first year in Bozeman, I lived on Dickerson Street and could easily walk anywhere I needed, usually on sidewalks and short connecting trails. Then in 2016, I moved out to Sourdough, a few houses south of Kagy—and next door to Nox! I already knew Nox’s family as friends of my daughter but had never had a close relationship with him personally. We bonded quickly, and he started coming over to my place when his people let him outside in the morning.
Soon I discovered the Sourdough connector to Peets Hill, and we were off exploring the joys of our local trails. Since Nox also enjoyed riding in the car, we took short trips to hike on Drinking Horse Mountain and Sourdough Canyon trails, as well as longer trips to the Beartooths. We got to hang out for longer periods when his family went on river trips. I cannot say that I walked more when I had Nox with me, but I can say for sure that I walked happier.
I also know that Nox made other people on the trail happier, too. Because of the crooked look on his face, folks would frequently say, “Your dog just smiled at me.” And there we were, just like Jane Goodall said, “making someone else happy.” Nox and his sweet face made me happy in many ways, but our time together on the trail was the best.
Since moving back downtown in 2017, I have been a regular on Peets Hill from the north side and am still working on walking all the trails in the Main Street to the Mountains system. I occasionally have a loaner dog with me (and I do carry doggie waste bags all the time). I always smile when I see a border collie out enjoying the sun, snow, and even the rain. Over the years, I got to see Nox for a few walks and visits, including a very special last time before he left these trails for good.
I love living in a dog-friendly town, and I am happy to share any trail with responsible dog-people. Although I rarely see badly behaved dogs, it is clear that many people are not responsible about dog waste, and that is just gross. When I am feeling especially kind, I pick up bags left by the side of the trail and put them in a nearby trash can. But honestly, it is disgusting, especially in the heat of summer, so please pick up your dog poop and Wag Kind in honor of Nox!
Wag Kind: Trail Buddies Welcome
When you and your pup head outside, you’re part of a bigger pack. Keep tails wagging by staying leashed where required, picking up waste, and giving others plenty of space, including wildlife.
Wag Aware: Obeying applicable leash laws is our responsibility. Know the leash requirements of your area parks and trails.
Wag Inclusive: Off-leash doesn't mean "responsibility-free." Basic obedience training allows you to call your dog away from conflicts with wildlife, other trail users, and other dogs.
Wag No Trace: Don't get caught empty-handed—always bring dog waste bags with you.
Wag Kind: When you see an on-leash dog in an off-leash area, assume that its owner doesn't feel confident about interactions with other dogs or people. Steer your dog clear of the on-leash dog.
Wag Safe: Keep your dog close when on popular biking trails, ski trails, and horse trails. Accidents can happen when dogs run in front of other trail users.
Wag Prepared: Know the trail conditions and whether there is water for your dogs or not. Carry supplemental water to keep your pup hydrated, if needed.