Sequoia Takes in a Show

Now that Sequoia is a certified service dog we continue to try and expose him to all kinds of situations. He’s building his stamina by carrying various weights in his packs and is more comfortable getting in and out of the car with his pack on. He’s experienced elevators, and has been to Walmart, Costco, and the movies. Ironically, the first preview he saw at his first film was the trailer to “Cats and Dogs” and he didn’t even let out a bark. He did however watch the screen. Shopping carts and action flicks are not his favorite because of the loud noises, but he usually adapts. Fitting between the movies seats is also tough for him but there is usually a good reward of popcorn on the floor.

Sequoia recently took in a live show in Creede, CO. Originally a mining town they now have a renowned theater which produces professional plays and musicals. After mining ceased in the early 1900’s (or maybe it was the 1970’s) the town intentionally cultivated the theater community to save it from extinction. We heard wonderful reviews of the theater and heard the golf course was one of the toughest mountain courses around (though I didn’t get to try it). Since it was only about two hours from the Sand Dunes we decided to explore it on a day trip. Arriving an hour before the show we spoke with the house manager to find out whether there were tickets which could accommodate us and our dog. Previously on the phone she had said that if he can fit in the rows at the movies, then he should be able to fit in front of our seats, but that proved not to be the case. We were able to purchase an aisle seat and Sequoia sat right next to us. There was only one problem; the cast entered and exited through that aisle, so I had to keep a close eye on him.

At the beginning of the show he settled down and lay right next to the seat. Once the show opened he watched just as he watches TV at home. I don’t think he knew quite what to make of it. I think he wondered why those people in front were talking and no one else was. I kept scooping his tail closer to his body to be sure it was not reaching too far into the walkway. He didn’t mind. By the end of the show, he was sprawled out on his side with his feet pointing into the aisle passed out asleep. I just hoped at the finale the cast would not take a running exit down this row and trip over him.

He survived the entire experience without being trampled or tripped over. Our fellow theater-goers all wanted to talk about him; what kind is he, their dogs could never sit still like that, he’s so good, oh how cute, etc. Once the theater emptied out and the lobby cleared, the cast came back in from the front doors where they had saluted the audience upon leaving. They all rushed over to him, surrounded to pet him, hugged and kissed him. I thanked them for not stepping on him the entire show and they all said they saw him from the start. We all knew he was the true star of that show. Maybe soon he should make a stage debut.