My name is John. I’m a “House-less” traveler, I don’t say homeless cause I left home in Alabama by choice at the age of 15, and set out on the road. It wasn’t until January of this year that I acquired a dog. A good friend of mine had been arrested and asked someone to get ahold of me to get his dog, who was just 8 weeks old at the time. I never had traveled with my own pet but once before only for a few days then he was reunited with his family. But since I got my dog, Bandit, he has changed my life. I still travel but the joy I see him bring to people especially kids. He loves attention by kids especially because he knows they like him. A friend that was in bad shape health wise had a great reaction from Bandit, they just loved each other. At night he has his own sleeping bag but ends up in mine. Anyway always alerting me that a squirrel is in close proximity or someone is coming towards us. He knows if they’re friend or foe before I do. I trust his judgement but I’ve always got a bag of dog food and water and he never goes without. He takes care of me so I do the same for him. When it’s cold he has a jacket to keep him warm and shade to keep cool. He’s a great companion.
I’ve ran into some people who claim to rescue animals but then the truth comes out they think I’m just a bum using him to get money. Truth is I’m a disabled Combat Vet and I suffer from PTSD but Bandit keeps me calm and out of danger. He saved my live so I owe him mine.
Some people have tried to steal him or try to get him taken away but have failed. I will defend him with my life. Cesar Milan even says Traveling dogs are the best cared for cause we don’t leave our companions in shelters or kennels, we treat them like they’re our kids. He eats before me and I have given my last dollar to make sure he has plenty. I do believe some organizations help like this one and I’m glad to know people do care about us. I travel the country cause like the Bank Williams Sr. song say – when the Lord made me he made a Ramblin Man. My Dog “Boxcar Bandit” has become a celebrity on the rails. He got the name Bandit cause he steals ladies hearts, LOL. But we share some adventures everyday but I’m glad there are people who love animals as much as me.
