Favorite trails, how to treat a sick friend, and the best way to introduce yourself to someone of any species

By Strider the Dog

Dear Strider,

It’s fall, and I really love getting out in the fall weather, especially since we haven’t had too much smoke this year. Do you have a favorite spot you’d recommend for a walk? And while we’re at it, do you have a favorite autumn foliage tree?

— Walkabout in Ashland

Dear Walkabout,

Isn’t fall the best? I mean, along with summer, spring and winter, of course. But when that autumn weather hits, and the leaves start turning colors, really anywhere is a great time. Ashland has all these wonderful trees that turn brilliant reds and oranges and yellows. Love that. The Railroad District is always particularly vibrant. Walking through Lithia Park would be a treat, I guess, though dogs aren’t allowed there, and I’ve only walked alongside it up to the reservoir. Speaking of the reservoir, that’s a great spot too. And the TID trail. And the trails outside of Jacksonville.

Personally, my favorite walk is anywhere in the Siskyou Mountains. And, no surprise, my favorite autumn tree is the dogwood.

What about you, Walkabout? Where is your favorite walk? Let me know, OK?

Dear Strider,

I’m wondering if you have a recommendation about what kind of gift to give a sick friend? I imagine you would give a fellow dog a bag of treats or something similar. What about a human friend? And would you suggest a card of some kind?

— Worried Pal

Dear Worried,

You sound like a great friend. You’re right about the treat thing. Food is always an excellent choice for a gift, as long as allergies and other requirements are taken into account. For dogs, I recommend something that smells of bacon. You can’t go wrong with bacon for a dog. For a human, I think you have to do a little investigating into their likes and dislikes, but that’s kind of fun, isn’t it? I hear chocolate is almost always an option.

Any loving attention from a friend is welcome in times of stress, so a card is great. But just a kind word is helpful too. I know when I’ve had the Cone of Shame attached to my collar (and the less I think about that the better), it always soothed me to have Shadow or Koda or Bridget or one of my other friends tell me I looked handsome, even when I knew they were lying. Of course I also loved it when they left me alone when I felt grumpy. That’s an act of love, too. It takes some skill, knowing what your friend needs, and sometimes it’s frustrating, but honestly, if they’re a real friend, just the fact you’re worried about them will be enough.

Of course, adding chocolate chip cookies to the mix probably doesn’t hurt.

Just saying.

Dear Strider,

I’ve got a weird question. How do I introduce myself to a trans person that I’ve just met through work?

— Confused But Wanting to Do Right

Dear Confused,

Well, this is what I say when I meet a new person. “Hi, my name’s Strider. What’s yours? Got a treat by any chance?”

Maybe adapt this for your needs? “Hi, my name’s Confused. What’s yours?” And skip the treats part.

Hope that helps.

Got a query? A secret shame you want to get off your chest? A happy memory to share? Our advice columnist is here to hear. Just email askstrider@ashland.news.