High Sierra Topix

As much as I support anyone who elects to serve their country in ways that are legal and responsible- sorry, I don't buy into the "cut them some slack" approach with the dog. The rules are clear and there for everyone, it is as simple as that. That is how we manage a complex and very diverse group of users in the back country. You accepted that responsibility when you signed the wilderness permit. If you don't agree with it, change the laws, or find great destination in the National Forests like everyone else who likes packing with their dogs. There are many of them. There are a lot of things about the way the back country in the National Parks are managed that I don't agree with, but you sign the permit, you choose to take that responsibility. And if I can't abide the rules of the day I go somewhere else.

Great trip report, glad that everyone had a enjoyable and safe journey.

That was definitely an assistance dog, all it takes is a note from a medic.
Any dog can qualify as long as a medic says the animal is necessary for the owners well being.
That said: if the dog is not under control and is found chasing game expect it to be shot!

I really enjoyed your report Bill. And, having served 6-years myself, I fall under the “cut the Purple Heart recipients some slack”. We owe these guys! I never do the Motel thingy but I always stop by La Casita in Bishop upon return from my trips. Problem is, I can never finish the large portions….great place, set at the bar, eat, drink and listen to Vin Scully. God Bless America!

Thankyou to all who enjoyed the report, took the time to say so and didn't feel the need to take on a "corrective role".

Bill,
I'm glad that you guys had a good trip. We met you just above Darwin Bench (My girlfiend and I (Chris and Mallory)). Thanks for the tips on passing through the lakes and the col.

Almost no one ever "deserves" special treatment and is above the law. We are not a country of justice. We are a country of laws and virtually everyone is expected to follow the law or accept the consequences.
I haven't always followed the rules -- far from it, but I was always willing to accept the consequences if caught, and without complaining.
I hope everyone here understands the "country of justice" thing.

Bill Morell wrote:If that doesn't earn Gary and his dog something in this country I don't know what does.

Semper Fidelis!

-Russ

Cross Country wrote:Almost no one ever "deserves" special treatment and is above the law. We are not a country of justice. We are a country of laws and virtually everyone is expected to follow the law or accept the consequences.
I haven't always followed the rules -- far from it, but I was always willing to accept the consequences if caught, and without complaining.
I hope everyone here understands the "country of justice" thing.

I understand what you mean. However what part of "We simply didn't care" is so hard to understand? It means that if we had been caught by Mr. Ranger then go ahead and write the damn ticket. I have seen behavior by people many times in NP's that was by far much worse then any poop dropped by Dude.
BTW, we buried Dudes poop just as we did ours in the proper manner.