The Magic of Dog Mountain

On a mountaintop in St. Johnsbury, Vermont lies a special place: Dog Mountain. Dogs are cherished at Dog Mountain, and the grounds contain hiking trails, open fields for dogs to run and play, and a chapel that honors the love and joy that dogs give us. People come from around the world to visit and pay tribute to dogs that have touched their lives.

Dog Mountain was envisioned by local resident Stephen Huneck after a near-death experience. He created all of the artwork, including the beautiful stained-glass windows in the chapel.

After our dog Vida died, Bryan and I were drawn to visit Vermont and make a pilgrimage to Dog Mountain. After spending a few days in Burlington, we made the picturesque drive. The town of St. Johnsbury has a beauty all its own, and when we arrived at Dog Mountain we were awestruck. Though it was a cold November day, the view was stunning.

We walked along the trails, watched dogs playing in the field, and visited the chapel – the centerpiece of Dog Mountain. It’s designed with beautiful stained glass art, each depicting the gifts dogs give us – peace, play, joy, faith, trust, and friendship.

It is a deeply moving experience to be in the chapel. The walls are completely covered with photos and notes that people have left in tribute to their dogs. Every tribute – and there are thousands of them – has been left by someone whose life has been significantly impacted by a dog. The room is overflowing with unconditional love.

We had brought a photo of Vida for the chapel. Every inch of the walls seemed to be covered, but somehow there was one little spot up high that was just right for her. We hung her photo, and then stood back to look at it and cry.

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When we adopted Vida, she was completely shut down and terrified of us. Before her rescue, she had never experienced a kind human, a home, a family, or love. I wish she could have known back then that one day she would be freed from her puppy mill cage, that she mattered, and that in her future was a family who loved her so much that they would one day travel halfway across the country to place her picture at the top of Dog Mountain.

If you have a chance to visit Dog Mountain, go. Take time to pay your respects to the dogs who have touched your heart, and those that have been loved by others. And be sure to say hi to Vida while you’re there.