Canine Runner

I avoid taking Pepper for runs in the summer and early fall. It's just too hot for our heavy-coated four-legged friend. Now is the time to take him, however.

Before 5, I woke, checked the weather (perfect 43 degrees, no wind) and put the leash on Mighty Pepper. The stars were brilliant as we headed out the driveway. Pepper's early mission, it seemed, was to mark the entire neighborhood. I think I'll get him some calling cards. Maybe that will solve the problem. Our first mile was slow, because of Pepper's scent-marking quest and because I was working out some soreness in my left achilles.

Loosened up, we picked up the pace a little after the first mile. Fellow runners understand our clothing and gear are important to us, and I'm no different. I love running when it's in the low 40s and I can "double-shirt" it. I wore a long-sleeved breathable shirt underneath and cotton t-shirt over it. The long-sleeved shirt was part of our race packet from this year's Tom King half marathon, and it's the best shirt I own. It looks good, and just feels right. Since it was pitch black outside, wearing it was pretty much about feeling right.

If dogs could smile, Pepper beamed. He wagged his tail often on our three-miler, and continually after the run. That's "thank you" in dog. As we were finishing, the sun was rising. Running at daybreak in perfect weather, with your happy dog, doing something you love, on election day when we have the freedom to vote ... how can anyone go wrong with that?