Deborah and I became aquainted with the stray dog on the steps of Hotel Esmeralda, a small resort near our hostel in Coroico, Bolivia.
He was adorable, the color of caramel being stirred into chocolate, and had a sweet and lively personality. Every time we came near, he hopped to attention, tail erect, dipping his head for a scratch behind the ears.
We named him Ez — short for the Hotel Esmeralda — and we didn’t mind at all when he wanted to accompany us on a hike.
We thought Ez would join us for a little while, then turn back home. He, however, had other plans.
Ez stuck by us along the trail, guarding us against dropoff edges, protecting us, as loyal and true as Lassie.
Each time I wheezed up a hill, Ez patiently waited for me to arrive.
Though he did occasionally run ahead to cool off his hot paws.
Through coca fields and countryside, under waterfalls and patches of jungle, we walked and walked. And so did Ez.
We ended up several miles and many hours from where we started. Deborah and I agreed that if we got a taxi to bring us back to our hostel, we would only go if they would bring Ez too.
The road was dry and desolate, though, and no taxis could be found.
Our hiking boots started to drag as we headed back toward our hostel on the main road. Still no cab.
Eventually we realized there was no Ez either. We looked around, called his name, waited a few minutes. Still no sign of our devoted hiking companion.
We don’t know if Ez found a shortcut back to the hotel or just wanted to take a break. I like to think he stumbled across someone else who needed his company more than we did.
Wherever he is, I hope Ez found a grand adventure — and a sunny road home.
No Comments