From Unwanted to First Class: The Story of a Dog Train

Sometimes the best plans come from unexpected places. For 88-year-old Eugene Bostick of Fort Worth, Texas, retirement took an unusual turn when he became a dog train conductor.

An Accidental Animal Rescuer

Eugene never planned to spend his golden years rescuing animals. It simply happened. He lives on a spacious farm that sadly became a dumping ground for unwanted pets. People would abandon their dogs near a horse barn on his property.

Instead of looking the other way, Eugene and his brother Walter stepped up. They took in these abandoned dogs, giving them food, shelter, and the care they needed. The large farm became a safe haven for the formerly stray pups.

All Aboard the Dog Train

While the dogs had plenty of room to run and play on the farm, Eugene wanted to do something extra special for his four-legged friends. The idea for a dog train came when he noticed a neighbor using a tractor with carts to haul rocks.

Eugene thought this concept could work perfectly for taking multiple dogs on outings. With creativity and basic materials, he crafted a unique transportation system. He took plastic barrels, cut holes in the sides for the dogs to sit in, welded wheels onto them, and tied them all together.

Adventures on the Rails

About twice a week, Eugene takes his dogs on special field trips. The train travels along quiet streets and through wooded areas, giving the rescued dogs a chance to explore beyond the farm.

The makeshift locomotive has become a source of joy for both Eugene and his pack of rescued pups. The dogs eagerly hop into their barrel cars, ready for their next adventure.

Continuing the Mission

Eugene originally ran the train with his brother Walter. After Walter passed away at age 91 in 2020, Eugene has continued the tradition on his own.

Despite his advancing age, Eugene remains committed to giving these once-unwanted dogs the best life possible. He acknowledges that at 88, he's not sure how much longer he can operate the train. But seeing the happiness it brings his dogs motivates him to continue for as long as he's able.

This story reminds us that sometimes the most meaningful contributions come from simple acts of kindness and creativity. Eugene's dog train not only provides fun outings for rescued animals but also demonstrates how one person's compassion can transform the lives of many.