Locking Through With Canine Help

‘Grrrr gr gr grrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrr,’ the little dog was growling but waggling her tail as she attacked the black ‘snake’ that was rudely wiggling near her feet.

‘Go-on, get it, get it,’ I heard the lock-keeper and Noel laughing while encouraging the tough terrier to attack.

Of course, it wasn’t a real snake, it was our mooring line! We usually take great care of our lines, we don’t drag them along paths, we furl them neatly – always ready to use, and try to keep them out of the sun; but we didn’t mind a bit of fun with a canine; besides she was having difficulty getting a good grip!

We traversed the Canal Du Midi in Autumn last year. With fewer boats we could savour all the delights this stunning canal has on offer. The autumn leaves showered down on us as we puttered through burnt oranges, flame reds and deep purples. The ducks quacked a laugh as we passed by and Herons flapped lazily across our bow.

With great tie up places and crisp, blue days of low humidity; no bumper boats (hire boats) and perfect countryside views, the days were a great joy. But this time we were keen to traverse the canal a bit quicker. Summer was here and we don’t enjoy sharing a narrow canal with umpteen ‘learners’.

At Ecluse No 35, Betielle, there was an added attraction that slowed us down and helped us appreciate our days. We were locking down, always easier than going up, but you still have to pay attention. As the lock doors opened I started to pull my line from around the bollard, back on board.

Our four-legged friend and I played tug of war for a while, but as the end of the line approached I took care, I didn’t want to pull her over the side!

As the rope fell onto the boat, the dog trotted off, pleased to have taken care of that problem!

Do you have funny dog/lock stories?