A very different kind of a Friday

It was all going to plan.

But adventures and running a small dog adventure business always throws up strange things.

After a fantastic first walk this morning I was dropping off some happy tired dogs. The sun was absolutely glorious and very much welcome by Walker and dogs.

As I started my van after dropping one of the last dogs I noticed that the battery warning the light on the dashboard remained on.

As I drive for a few minutes I was willing it to turn off.

I have had this problem with two other vans previously. Some of you may have already guessed it, but my alternator (which charges the battery) from the motor was failing.

I was heading towards the city centre and I needed to make an immediate call. Depending on the battery you have somewhere between 10 to 60 minutes before your car or van will just completely stop working. Coming to a complete stop in central Oslo on a Friday lunchtime would never be fun.

I phoned up my mechanic and he confirmed my fears as I turned for home. Driving home was its own adventure as you just never know how long you have left. There were some stressful moments whilst waiting at traffic lights, as I turned off and unplugged all unnecessary electronic things in the van.

Pulling up outside where I live I was immensely relieved.

Whilst I was driving I had organised for Christian to kindly take on three of my afternoon dogs. I had also rung up the three dogs I unfortunately had to cancel. Thank you to those owners for your understanding. Of course these things happen and are unpredictable, but your kind words made it easier.

As soon as I got home I rung up the car parts warehouse out at Alnabru. They had the part and I reserved it immediately.

I was very grateful to borrow my partner’s mother’s car and within 15 minutes found myself driving the Oslo ring road in a Mercedes, still in full dog walking attire.

My mechanic friend, who is an absolute Superstar, will be popping over on Sunday morning to have a coffee and replace the Alternator. Once again I am always amazed by human kindness in an hour of need.

If ever the alternator does not fix the problem, then I have a rental van ready to go for Monday. The show must always go on!

Happy Weekend from a relieved dog walker

Doggies: Mari, Nola, Tex, Prima, Hunter, Samus, Amazona, Pippi and Sid