QUESTION: Some people took real issue with you ‘smuggling’ Twinkles into the Sacred City. What’s your response?
Honestly, I had no reservations at the time
Mainly because I didn’t realize it was considered a religious site. Never saw any ‘services’ or ‘rituals’ going on in the pictures. Then I got earfulls of enlightenment
In hindsight, maybe I’d think twice, but back then, we had already gotten into so many places where dogs weren’t allowed that it felt almost routine. And “smuggling”? Very poor word choice.
I’d like to have a word with the person that wrote it, but impossible. It was AI generated!
Twinkles knew the Drill
Quiet, respectful, invisible unless invited. And once inside, she respected the space. Always did. She wasn’t just well-behaved—she carried herself like she belonged.
There’s a photo of her with some llamas, a group of tourists laughing in the background—it wasn’t disruption, it was joy. It was a very lightly trafficked day. We most certainly stood out. And as we were enjoying a sandwhich …
A Moment of Vindication and Grace
Twinkles growled under her breath. Didn’t over-react, just a cue to alert me as to the threat. Sure enough, spotted a ranger her about 100-ft away. It was moment I’ll never forget. From dream to nightmare just like that. No panic, just kept our cool. Calm, especially the dog.
Could’ve thrown the rulebook at us—but he didn’t. He saw the dog and the general congregation around her. Lotta joy, positive energy. She wasn’t a threat.
The Ranger didn’t fall into the trap of judging on appearance alone
Didn’t give us any glares, just walked away.
That moment has stuck with me. It's such a rare example of someone choosing wisdom over reflex. I try to carry that forward every day—looking past the surface, slowing down before judging, and remembering that presence matters more than packaging.
I’ll always be grateful to him. He should write an HR guide manual!
