[twodogdad]

You were a perfect pair. The world would be a better place if more people took such good care of their friends. N

[Scrooge]

How remarkable, that we've been here on nwhikers long enough to share two such love affairs. Thank you, Driver.

[zephyr]

Such a wonderful tribute to your friend and companion, Sadie's Driver. I must have started reading too quickly because it took a while for me to catch on to the story of your lake trip morphing into a memorial. As I scrolled through all the fun memories, I realized that Gus was no longer with us. I was unexpectedly touched by your story. I am very sad for your loss and the emptiness in your life right now. But what an amazing life of adventure and love that you gave him. You took him to many, many beautiful wild places with some great people and dog friends. He was lucky to have you. Farewell Gus. All the best, Suzanne. ~z

[GeoTom]

You are the first person from NWHikers that I ever met in person, and it was because I recognized Sadie at the Smithbrook(!) Road parking area. I was fortunate enough to share a few hikes with her, and then many more with Gus. Oh, you're fun to hike with too I suppose. But it's really the dogs that I like to get out on trips with. I'm not sure why Jasper never took to Gus, but it was his loss. At least there was some level of peace while everyone was hiking. I'm sure Gus appreciated it on some of the recent hikes where I left Jasper at home due to injury. Thanks for the memories and a touching tribute to Gus. Here are a few of my photos of him (and others). I often didn't get any of him as he was always up ahead with you, and I was usually bringing up the rear.

Not acknowledging each other on Earl Peak

Teaching Jasper the proper way to get a sandwich on Oakes Peak

Twin begging from cartman on Oakes Peak

Gus trying his best to ignore Jasper

Two tired bros after 3-Brothers/Navaho

Gus was secretly hopeful that someone would close the back door on Jasper's paws

Snowball armor

With his baby after a long hike

Sharing a Jasper-free snow patch with Izzy

[Opus]

Good dog.

Gus

Shake

Back in the water

Fiesta rice

Cornice dog

Our dog is melting

Birthday dog

Happy birthday, Gus!

Dog nap

Water dog

Snowball dog

Still going up

Disposal dog

Gusto Marx

Truffle dog

Top of Lundin Peak

Suzanne and Gus

Gusto

Gusto

[TrailPair]

I like these photos from the Bald Mt. hike of Gus with Luis and Lupe.

Gus and Luis chewing sticks

Dog to human communication.

Gusto lured Luis into the lake.

[yoko]

I had a chance to hike with Gus earlier this year. What a wonderful life Gus had with you. I am so sorry.

[Sadie's Driver]

[Sadie's Driver]

[bobbi]

[Chico]

Dog speed Gus, Dog speed!

[grannyhiker]

That was a whole-box-of-tissues trip report! I'm so sorry for your loss! Gus and Sadie are now playing with Hysson in beautiful mountain meadows! Maybe they will teach Hysson (whose one swimming maneuver was a quick turn to shore) how to swim!

[cartman]

Loved that big galoot. Like a good retriever, he had a blast chasing sticks and bringing them back to you--and then wrestling you for it. (Gus, you have to let go.) I like that we had an agreement. I would feed him and he would let me keep all my fingers. Though it was often a near thing... Rest gently, Gusto.

[Snowdog]

What a dog! Isabel's first and best friend. I have oodles of pics of him, but am traveling now and will post when I get home. We could all take lessons from Gus in how to live life : Always greet your friends and loved ones as if you haven't seen them for years. Never pass up an opportunity for a treat. (even if you need to swipe it!) Moan with pleasure Announce newcomers with a friendly " helloooo" Lean in Treat every day like it's the best day. I loved him like he was my own. He had SO many human friends, and dog friends. He will be terribly missed by all. May his spirit and zest for life live on.

[Bryan K]

Sometimes I think we get to know the dogs on here more than their human companions. We see so many photos of them as their humans enjoy mountain time with their dogs and friends. Dogs are eager to travel in the mountains and make such good photo opportunities. they love to play in the snow, snag a free treat when they can and other times just lay around on a mountain summit or the back of a Subie wagon after a long hike. I've enjoyed seeing the many photos and adventures that Gus has taken the Driver on. Gus was a handsome looking dog and I know he will be missed by so many people on here. Driver, I am sorry for your loss and I cannot begin to imagine what you are going through. I want to thank you for sharing Gus with us over the years. It's been a treat to share in the joy of seeing him in the mountains and the happiness that he brought into your life.