I met Goose at Gate 3.
I actually heard Goose first, while waiting for my flight at Gate 3.
From the far side of the gate, amplified staccato guitar notes caught my attention. Then, again. After the third rift, I realized the guitar was not a guitar but a puppy and his baby bark.
I turned around and scanned the floor behind me. Several rows away was a puppy carrier— and a puppy. Never one to miss a puppy meet-and-greet opportunity, I grabbed my backpack and headed that way.
There he was, making every effort in his little being to exit the carrier, his owner’s legs wrapped securely around each end.
“Your puppy is so cute,” I said to start the conversation. I hoped this would lead to an opportunity to pet the miniature guitarist.
Goose was an eight-week-old Corgi-Aussie mix. On the cutest side of things, he was four pounds of indomitable will with corn blue eyes and a velvet tan and white coat. I learned he was waiting to board his maiden flight to Dallas and a new life with his new best friend, Nancy.
However, flying wasn’t top of mind for this puppy. Exiting his plush, baby-blanket-lined travel home was. The carrier and soft blanket held no interest for him. Marvelous, not-to-be-missed events at Gate 3 did. He was determined to be part of all he was missing.
With every ounce of will and strength, Goose lifted his little body half out of the carrier, while Nancy and I talked. Every fearless, determined muscle was called on to climb up, over and out of his cozy confinement. Each time he nearly achieved victory, Nancy gently lowered him back into the carrier. Undeterred, undiscouraged and more intent, he launched his efforts again. The sea of human legs and luggage, loud voices over mikes, and countless conversations and commotion did not daunt or intimidate. They were the goals.
Goose viewed himself as an explorer of unknown worlds. An adventurer on a quest, he was strong, fearless and capable of seeing his quest through. However, Goose never did leave his carrier at Gate 3. While he continued to try, I asked Nancy if I could pet him. She said yes! I told Goose it was nice to meet him and rubbed his soft head and ears. With a smile in my heart, I headed back to my seat knowing Goose had a life of happy exploration ahead.
