Wagging Through the World

Ever since my ‘hoomans’ brought me home, the car has been my second home (well… except for those sneaky vet trips – not cool). Nose in the wind, ears flapping, tail wagging – the road is where I feel most alive. And yes, the back seat belongs to me. Mom can sit there too… but only Mom.

The Journeys So Far

Trip 1: Chandigarh – Grandma’s Welcome Party

At just 3 months old, I took my first road trip to my dadi’s house. Smooth highways, cleaner air, polite drivers – this was the life! Finding a restaurant that allowed me was tough, but after some pleading, we got a cozy corner at a dhaba.

Sukhna Lake was stunning, but apparently, I wasn’t allowed there either (rolls eyes). Luckily, Mom’s favorite café, JC’s, welcomed me. Midnight drives, running from the house to the park, and meeting Dad’s friends made this summer trip unforgettable.

Trip 2: Binsar – My Winter Wonderland

Binsar is a gem in Uttarakhand, famous for its Himalayan views and wildlife sanctuary. The moment Mom started packing winter clothes, I knew – adventure time! I packed my bag with essentials: food, clothes, toys, a comb, and of course, my new water bottle.

Surprise twist – Dad’s friends were coming too, along with their fur babies, Oye and Sheru. At first, we weren’t besties, but when another dog tried to chase me, Sheru jumped in to defend me. Brothers from another mother, I guess.

The 8-hour drive was worth every minute. As soon as we reached the mountains, I rolled down the window (okay, Dad did) and breathed in the crisp air. Our stay had open green grass – zoomies activated.

We hiked to a riverside where I met water for the first time. I was nervous, but Mom held me close, and I fell asleep in her arms. The view, the food, the warmth – magical. I also discovered I’m a great cricket fielder… as long as I can run away with the ball.

Trip 3: Jim Corbett – Mom’s Birthday Bash   

Jim Corbett – land of tigers, nature, and… pools I don’t like. This trip was extra special because it was Mom’s birthday. Dad had planned surprises, and when we reached, I saw green lawns, wind in my fur, and my godmother waiting for me. Zoomies everywhere!

Our room had a private pool (no, thank you) and balloons (fun until they popped). I was kept close because, well, tigers. Mom and Dad were my security guards – though I still wonder if they’d win that fight.

I met goats for the first time, enjoyed long walks, and soaked up the birthday joy. Leaving was hard – I could’ve stayed forever.

Trip 4: Almora – Mountain Home for New Year’s  

Almora, nestled in Uttarakhand, is known for its sweeping Himalayan views and tranquil vibe. Our Airbnb was a dream – right in the middle of the mountains with a big garden. I zoomed from corner to corner, tail wagging at full speed.

Nights were chilly, but Mom had packed my sweater. We spent most of our time enjoying the house, taking small walks, and visiting a temple (I wasn’t allowed inside, so I waited patiently). On our way back, we stopped at Café Shivohm – totally my vibe.

Trip 5: Alwar – The Short and Sweet Celebration

Alwar is close to home but packed with history and charm. We went for my māsar’s 40th birthday and stayed in a pet-friendly Airbnb with a big garden. I chased my hooman brother, played cricket (again, MVP fielder), and roamed freely. Short trip, big memories.

Trip 6: Tirthan Valley – Adventure with a Twist

This trip started with a twist – a cloudburst closed our route, and we had to find a last-minute pet-friendly stay for the night. But by the next day, the road reopened, and we made it to our Airbnb.

Tirthan Valley is breathtaking – fresh air, river streams, friendly faces. We hiked to Sarchi Village, with its clean mountain air and stunning views. I crossed small streams, explored trails, and discovered that if stairs look scary, Dad will carry me.

We also visited Shoja – a tiny, peaceful village with postcard-perfect views. Every moment here was pure joy, even if I never really bonded with my fur travel buddies. (Age gap, you see.)

What Travel Has Taught Me

Pack the essentials: clothes, bowl, water, toys, treats, medicines, towel, bottle, scoop stick.

Always know the nearest vet and pet-friendly spots.

Sniff everything, explore everywhere.

Adjust quickly – adventures often change last minute.

Bruno’s Bucket List

Number one? Sikkim – my nani’s house! I dream of a plane seat next to Mom (no crates, thank you) or maybe a test train trip first.

“To travel is to live… and to wag through life is to love.”

Bruno’s Travel Tip No. 1

If you’re a pup, train your hoomans to politely ask for pet-friendly seating. Sometimes, a wag and a smile can get you in!

Bruno’s Travel Tip No. 2

In the mountains, keep your paws warm and pack plenty of water. Fresh air makes you thirstier than you think.

Bruno’s Travel Tip No. 3

If stairs look unsafe, stand your ground. Your hoomans will carry you – trust me, it works every time.