Dog Tired

Pets receiving more attention lately

By Steve Arnberg (Briley’s person)

For the first time ever, my dog was less than excited to see her leash. Rather than hop around wagging her tail for our 5:30 trip out to the Russell Forest Trails, she acted a bit lazy. Normally, my six-year-old Golden Retriever, Briley, would be ready to hit the trail and dive in one of the dozens of creeks that are on our route.

I was a bit concerned about her lack of excitement and began to think about calling the vet to make an appointment. I must have said something out loud, because my son (who is social distancing here from Atlanta) and my wife both offered up an explanation. My wife said that she and Briley had worked together in the yard all morning, and my son had taken her for a walk around the neighborhood. No wonder she was (dog) tired!

I have noticed lots of people taking their dogs for walks around our area. In fact, Briley and I have been making new dog friends in our neighborhood and on the trail system (horse friends too). I like the idea that our four-legged friends are getting to spend so much time with their people while getting back into shape. Hopefully, this trend extends after the virus period ends.

The access to thousands of acres of forest and the nearly endless trail system of the Russell Forest is a tremendous asset to property owners here at Russell Lands On Lake Martin. Activity on the trails increases in April. During the social-distancing of today, that increase is noticeable, in a good way. On just about any given Saturday, we will meet riders on horseback, mountain bikers, hikers, trail-runners, or other pet lovers.

Since motorized equipment is prohibited on the trail system, this is a great way to spend time with family and friends. I enjoy being in a setting where the biggest worry is if my dog will take off to chase after one of the local white-tailed deer.

If you want to take your furry friend for a walk on the trails, look for the trailhead signs adjacent to our neighborhoods. In many cases, the signage includes large granite boulders marking the entry of the trails. You may also get a map application for your smartphone. Just go to the App Store or Google Play on your smartphone and search for Russell Lands. The application with maps will pop up so you can navigate and find yourself on the trails!

Life at Russell Lands On Lake Martin is exceptional. The Russell Forest is one of the features that makes it special. For those of you that are making this your place during this time, Briley and I look forward to seeing you on the trail.

Please Note: Users of the trail system must join the association to have access to the trail system. Please visit the Russell Forest page on our website for more information and to download the documents.