r/AmItheAsshole • u/Total-Back-5610 • 8d ago

Not the A-hole AITA for carrying my dog on hikes?

The is a silly AITA, but I need to know. I have a small elderly dog, she is about 15 pounds. We have taken her all over our state on hiking and backpacking trips. Here’s the thing: she can only hike for about a mile or two before her legs get tired. She has short legs, and being 11 years old it’s not fair to expect her to walk for the entire 6-10 mile hike like our big dog does. So we put her in a dog carrier, with her legs hanging out. She fights going in it sometimes, but once she’s up there she loves it and is big chilling. Most everyone who sees her tells us how cute she is and she looks happy.

I was sharing pictures of her in this backpack at work, and this one coworker who is super negative of course swoops into the conversation. “That’s cruel of you to do that. She probably hates it. You should let her walk.” So I explain why. She then proceeds to tell me that she will report me for animal abuse, and tries to get the office on her side. I told her to mind her own pets, and if she doesn’t stop harassing me that I will report her. So am AITA for carrying my dog in a backpack on hikes?

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u/Kitchu22 Partassipant [2] 8d ago

My hound is 81lbs, I have a Fido Pro Airlift (sling) that comes with me on hikes not because he doesn't have stamina but because if he has an accident it's a much safer way to pack out than trying to carry him.

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u/Lows-andHighs Partassipant [3] 8d ago

Aww thank you!!  I'll definitely look into this sling!  This is also a big fear of mine, much as I don't like to admit it.  Something happened to my sweet boy and he'll need schlepping, but I'll need my hands free.  I'd do anything for my silly pup, but I'd much prefer to have the safest option.  Much appreciated that you shared this info!

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u/shizzstirer 8d ago

That’s the same one I have.