On Friday evenings, right before sunset, the loud traffic on the highway around Lehigh Acres in Florida gives way to a cheerful sound far more pleasing – the bubbly chorus of happy dogs on the move.
At this moment, like clockwork, a dog train cruises to the streets to cheer up the lives of its passengers.
A husband and wife, Alice and Paul Johnston, moved to Lehigh Acres approximately eight years ago after running an animal rescue shelter in Costa Rica for several years. However, they did not relocate on their own. They also brought with them the more than a dozen adorable dogs they take care of there – all of whom had carefully been saved from the streets.
Now, in the outskirts, the Johnston couple decided to get innovative.
According to Alice, they have a lot of dogs. Of course, they could not walk them all or place them in their car to take them out for a ride. So, Paul builds a dog train so they can take them out and drive all over the community. Paul pulls the dog train with a lawnmower, and Alice rides a small scooter behind him to watch over things to ensure each dog is safe.
The thrilled gang is a beautiful sight to see. The perfect idea for that Wonderland Express, as it is known, was inspired by a Texas guy who built a train for his rescue pups, and the Johnstons’ dogs like it just as much.
Alice said that the dogs get very excited, and they love it. Their dogs know that it’s Friday better than they do. Alice and Paul are amazed at how their lovely dogs know. However, the pups are not just the only ones who are happy about their weekly trips.
According to Alice, they have people who would wait for them every week to pass by along the streets. Some people would come out and give the Johnstons’ dogs treats, and they enjoy it.
Alice and Paul have put whatever attention the dog train gets to some good use.
Alice said her husband has signs all over the dog train motivating people to adopt and not shop. There are so many street dogs, and they genuinely make excellent pets. The Johnstons are happy to do anything to motivate people to give these dogs a chance.
Alice and Paul don’t intend to publicize their famous Wonderland Express dog train, though they’re glad people are so happy to witness it. For the lovely couple, it is all about their pup’s enjoyment – and raising awareness about the absolute joy of adopting.
According to Alice, it gives them so much happiness to know that homeless dogs can get a second chance. And it truly gives them satisfaction knowing that they are giving their dogs a good life.
Source: YouTube via Jodie Brady
