As I rode along on the air-conditioned bus this morning, I heard heavy breathing coming from behind me. Since I am not the type to inspire heavy breathing on a bus full of strangers, I had to turn and look. Hey, ya never know; maybe I’m extra drop-dead sexy today!

“It’s her, not me.” So said the lady with the pug on her lap.

I’ve always been more of a dog person than cat person. (Mainly because I’m allergic to cats, despite living with three of ‘em.) I don’t have issues with people stretching the ’service animal’ privilege, providing the critter is somewhat clean and well-behaved. This was not a case of service animal. This was just a cute dog (and master) out for a ride.

“Is that a pug?” I asked, knowing full well it was. “My sister used to have one. It mated with a chihuahua, and had puppies that looked like a mini-German Shepherd with a curly tail. Quirky little dog…”

“That would be called a Chug,” she replied.

“Sounds better than puh-wawa…” I didn’t tell her about Our PDX’s definition of Chugger. Everyone was in a good mood, and even discussing Chuggers tends to get people riled up. Since I was in a good mood, and so was everyone else, I chose to focus instead on the upside.

“What’s her name?”

“This is Ruby.” Ruby’s ears perked up at hearing her name, I had to snap a picture.

What can I say? I’m a sucker for a cute little dog that is brave enough to ride a bus wearing nothing but a pair of pink panties…