Saving Amos

We had weird weather on the dock's at Stephenson Island today. We woke to a chill in the air that heated up quickly once the sun rose. The water was dead calm until the wind built from the north, then switched to the south before settling into a gusting and uncomfortable northwest blow. With the heat and wind gusts, we didn't get much done!

We went for a walk in the afternoon. On our way out of the marina, a tiny black dog came barreling towards us. We tried to greet him but he rushed by, in obvious distress. There wasn't anyone following him so we turned back toward our dock and tried to catch up to the little guy.

He ran right down the middle of the dock like he knew where he was going. Suddenly, he stopped just before the end and turned in a full circle looking at each boat in confusion. With the water behind him and us in front, we were in a faceoff. He began running toward us but this time he stopped at our feet. It seemed like he knew we were his only chance for help. He was panting and shaking with wild eyes that mirrored his physical condition. He looked hot and miserable, as well as very lost! It was clear that he'd been loose in the 90 degree heat for some time.

Our dock neighbor, Jeff, approached and said he thought the pup was overheating. He gathered a clean cloth and ice water then showed us how to cool the desperate old boy behind his ears and on his feet. We tried to give him water but he refused and continued to paint heavily. We were very concerned about heat stroke.

Jeff and Beth cooling Amos down

Beth offering water to Amos

Once we calmed him down a bit, we wrapped him in a dry towel and headed for the animal shelter across the river in Menomonie, Michigan. The shelter scanned him and found that he was chipped. It didn't take long to learn his name is Amos and that he lives in Marinette. The shelter immediately called his family. Hopefully, he'll be home soon.

Jeff's quick thinking and experience saved sweet Amos who was lucky to stumble upon a bunch of boat people during his adventure. We are accustomed to noticing when things are not what they should be and taking action. 

One of the things we love about boating life is all the unusual experiences we have. There is always something new to learn or teach and folks are ready to lend a hand at all times.

At the end of our long, hot and windy day, the universe painted the sky in breathtaking color; our reward for a day well spent!