It’s August, which means summer is really hitting its stride in British Columbia. If you’ve ever doubted the “Best Coast” moniker for our part of the country, now is the time of year to soak up the sun amidst some of the most picturesque natural landscapes in Canada. While normally, folks would be packing into their cars and heading out on camping trips and day excursions with friends and family alike, the need to stay socially distant from each other has put a small damper on our summer fun. That doesn’t mean we have to adventure all by our lonesome, however! We can always turn to a furry friend to provide us with companionship as we enjoy Beautiful British Columbia.
by Rachael Rodgers
(Rocky Mountain Books)
Need some inspiration? Turn to Rachael Rodgers’s Adventures with Adoptable Dogs: An Instagram Guide for Animal Advocates (Rocky Mountain Books) for inspiration and to see just how much fun the outdoors can be with a canine companion. Her stunning photos not only capture the breathtaking landscapes right in our own backyard, but highlight the individual quirky personalities of the adoptable dogs she took with her.
Let’s be honest, a little sunshine, fresh air and a furry companion is what we all need after so many long months of isolation. For those who don’t have a dog at their side to fill the days with fun and friendship, never fear! We’ve compiled a list of just a few of Rachael’s very photogenic travelling partners for you to scroll through while sitting in the sun on your own porch. Just one look at these adorable dogs is sure to pick up the spirits with some good old fashion wholesome energy.
1. Ben
Ben is an old soul. You can tell by the way he stares so contemplatively off into the quiet majesty of the mountains. His philosophical ways only add to his charm in our minds, however. Of course, that adorable pink nose gives away the puppy spark of adventure inside him. How else did he manage to climb so high with such nonchalance?
2. Cyrus
Cyrus is a dog who takes big gulps of life without a care in the world. That easy grin, those half-floppy ears and a curiosity for everything around him suggests that Cyrus is a dog of energy and adventure. Sure, he’ll pose for the occasional adorable photo or five, but what he really wants to do is run. And run. And run all day, every day. Make sure you always capture his good side. Oh, who are we kidding? All of his sides are good sides.
3. Moose
Moose, on the other hand, subscribes to the more sleepy life. He’s one tiny ball of roly-poly snuggles and comfort. Don’t let the size of his body or the length of his naps fool you though. This pup was made for hugs, laps and the giving and receiving of love. He’ll happily trot across the world on those tiny white toes. We may have hit peak adorable here.
4. Zach
Zach is a bit of a shy boy, but that doesn’t stop him from putting his best paw forward in the world. One look into those gorgeous blue eyes is all it takes to fall in love forever. Zach promises to never stop being adorable, even as he grows up. Frankly, we believe him.
5. Wyatt
The essence of art itself, Wyatt knows how to pose for that perfect photo. Trust him, that head tilt might not look like anything special until you notice how perfectly he’s lined up his dusting of white to match the angle of the river. Only a true master of the image has that kind of talent. Keep using your gifts to maximum effect, Wyatt. You’re headed for greatness!
6. Titan
Titan isn’t afraid to go for the more classic dog aesthetic. Sometimes simple tradition is elegance itself. Titan radiates confidence in all that he does, and honestly, isn’t that where true beauty lies? Keep on doing what you do, Titan. We love you.
7. Poppy
Poppy has freckles. What more needs to be said? Poppy knows she’s adorable, and we agree. She is willing to concede that the setting of her photo is at least just as stunning as she is, though. Keep on being modest, Poppy.
8. Kroeger
Sometimes you just have to own the fact that you’re the most gorgeous creature on the snow. Kroeger isn’t bothered by a little self-appreciation. In fact, he’ll even strike a pose to pass the good vibes onto his adoring fans. You’re a superstar, Kroeger, and no one will ever be able to convince you otherwise.
Adventures with Adoptable Dogs is full to bursting with even more adorable, adoptable dogs photographed against the backdrop of BC’s breathtaking wilderness. Not only do Rodgers’s photographs capture the essence of each adoptable dog for Instagram’s outdoor-loving audiences, but it teaches other animal lovers how to follow in her footsteps, offering advice on how to capture the spirit of each dog and, hopefully, find the forever home each dog is waiting for.