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Camping With Your Dog By Anabel Dflux
shadow has four paws. Odin is a 4-year-old Australian shepherd who is also my service dog. Every step I take, he is right by my side. We both really enjoy exploring the world together. Every path we take together is a new adventure.
camping since 2016. The two quickly became experts through their mutual passion for outdoor fun. After a terrifying accident left Leslie in need of a trusty helper, Odin came into her life as a service dog. Together, they explore the beautiful California landscape and share in exciting adventures with Mother Earth.
PCM: How long have you two been camping together? Leslie: Odin and I began our outdoor journey together in 2016. It all started with local hikes in Palos Verdes—we enjoyed it so much that I began to do some research and befriended like-minded people. We then expanded our hikes to the Angeles National Forest.
PHOTO COURTESY LESLIE & ODIN
PCM: Tell us a bit about yourself and your furry camping companion. Leslie: My name is Leslie, I am 21 years old, and my
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PCM: What attracted you to the outdoors in the first place? Leslie: When I was a senior in high school, I was in a lifethreatening car accident that caused me to be unable to go out with friends or socialize much. I suffered injuries that confined me to my bed—hence, Odin became my service dog. I fell into a deep depression and began to seek an outlet. My dog is a fairly active breed, so we began taking walks around the park, and I really enjoyed the solitude, bonding, and connection between us. So I thought, why not try hiking?
PHOTO COURTESY LESLIE & ODIN
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iving on the west coast, we are blessed with beautiful weather and gorgeous natural areas. Camping is an outdoor pastime that is beloved by nature lovers, allowing you to become a deep part of the world around you. What better way to experience this beautiful hobby than with your furry best friend? Pet Companion Magazine met up with 21-year-old Leslie and her Australian shepherd sidekick Odin, who have been
We’ve done countless hikes in nature … it became my outlet, and what better company than my dog? I looked into camping, and our first trip was to Bishop, in central California. Such a fond memory! PCM: Where have you camped, and what adventure was your favorite? Leslie: So far Odin and I have camped in the Angeles National Forest, Inyo National Forest, Joshua Tree, and Sugar Pine Point State Park. My favorite adventure with Odin has got to be Little Lakes Valley in the Inyo National Forest. The views on this hike were beautiful, and Odin really enjoyed swimming
