When you first see this video of an old man chugging his train with a bunch of dogs you may not be so impressed but a little back story will leave you amazed! It all started when Eugene Bostick, a retired farm owner saw many neglected strays sauntering in and around his property. Deriving inspiration from a tractor being used to pull carts that carried rocks, he built his own version of a train where he attached his trailer to a row of barrels to which he fixed a few wheels. Every time he sees a stray that is in need of help, he puts them in a barrel and takes them out on a ride as if they are out on a parade. His final destination is his horse barn which is now a home for the strays too. He takes care of them like they are his own, feeds and grooms them, pays visits to the vet, gets them spayed and neutered. He has literally given a place for the dogs to live. The dogs are not the only beneficiary of Bostick’s altruism. Different kinds of animals including goats, rabbits, squirrels, raccoons, ducks and fish feed on the food he puts in his barn.
These homeless dogs are taken out for a ride on the dog train occasionally. Besides the fact that the dogs thoroughly enjoy the spin, it is also a delightful sight for the locals. The residents are completely enamored to see the benevolence of this Good Samaritan. They have turned to social media and made plenty of posts on the abundant compassion of this kind soul. One local’s post read something like this: This is the coolest guy. He rescues stray dogs and every morning he takes them for a train ride by our building. I finally got the courage up to ask if I could take his pic! Love this and had to share! With this video going viral, this man is not only a celebrity in his town but everywhere.
He is a testament to hope, goodness, generosity and humanity. He may be already 80 years but his spirit to serve and nurture is still indomitable. It is inspiring stories like these that we need to reflect on, take a cue and better our society. It is sometimes the most bizarre idea but if it is benignant, why not do it?!
