I see a lot of new and seasoned empty nesters turn to their pets to help the void when the kids are gone. That is not to say that they are a replacement, but that they help fulfill that still existent need to nurture. We can look after them, have fun together and even worry over them.
Although I’m an avid walker and Fitbit addict, my dogs are not capable of long walks. They both have hip and leg issues. In addition to my pug, Jojo, I have an English bulldog, Jango. He is sure to be featured in a future blog with his big personality and silly antics.
But poor Jojo was a bit under the weather over the holidays. She is 14 years old and it’s hard for her to participate in too much play. I decided to get her a pet stroller. I see many pets in dog strollers here in Florida and while it may seem amusing, the dogs really enjoy being out and about. I do realize that this is comical to many onlookers but I’ve reached a point in life where I don’t mind being characterized as the crazy pug lady.
I read a few articles about which strollers are best. I contemplated getting one large enough for both dogs. The large strollers are a lot more expensive. I also thought that Jojo might enjoy some time without Jango hogging attention and space. So I opted for this Pet Gear model just for her. It was fairly easy to assemble although the rear wheel assembly took me a couple of tries to figure out.
I gave it a test run in the house so Jojo could get acclimated. Then I had to wait for a sunny day! And off we went. I could not believe we ran into another pug in a stroller within 5 minutes! It turns out that Jojo makes friends way easier than I do. Almost everyone stopped to chat. I did get a few giggles and a shout out of “ Your baby is cute!” All in good fun.
Jojo stood shakily at first but she took in all of the smells and sights. She got her stroller footing in no time. Her tail wagged the whole time. I think she enjoyed the sightseeing so much that she didn’t want to sit down. Near the end of the walk she finally laid down but kept her head up to see. Now I look forward to walking the neighborhood with her and I’m super excited for my young nieces to visit and get to push Jojo in her stroller.
Good Luck Magpie 
The things we do for our pets is truly inspiring. I, too, have been known to cater to my pets. They give love unconditionally and ask nothing in return. They are always happy to see you and want nothing more than a little acknowledgement. If only people would act this way, the world would certainly be a better place. Smiles for JoJo and Jango!
Teresa
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Thank you! Pets are definitely happy places for our hearts. We can definitely learn from that ❤️ Jango and Jojo make me smile every day!
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