Olive and Mabel - Once More to the Hills.

[@EvanEdwards]

I am crying as I type this. My wife raised guide dogs as a child, and she loved Labradors and long road trips. On Easter Sunday earlier this month she passed away in at-home hospice at the age of 40. We didn't even know about the cancer until the last nine days, although we (and the hospital) suspected something was very wrong for awhile prior. Mr. Cotter, she adored Olive and Mabel and was always terribly worried about Olive getting older. We would be puttering around the house, and she'd say, out of nowhere, "I wonder how Olive is doing?" Honestly, I am a large man who tends to wear all black, and she was a short, petite woman with blonde hair and exuberant energy, and I think she saw ourselves in the two. When she was having a bad day, I would pull up videos of them to cheer her up. While I know it was not your intent at all, watching this was cathartic for my grief in your universal message: the time we spend with those we love is precious. Thank you. Thank you for this video and all the others, and thank you for sharing yourself and two labs with the world. We watched your videos together and it made my wife happy. Which, as I often reminded her, was always my unwavering goal in life. From our quiet home in Nashville Tennessee, I thank you, Olive, and Mabel. Give them a hug from Sarah.

[@mumofbrunodog]

Oh Evan you lovely man for wearing your heart on your sleeve, for sharing your story and your grief in such a special way and for remembering all the precious times you have experienced. You do make yourselves sound like Olive and Mabel. 🥹I hope you find some deep peace somewhere in the grief and remember all that is good in this life, however long it is. You are never alone. 🧡

[@mrandrewcotter]

Ah, Evan, I'm so sorry. There is nothing I can say that will make things any easier just now, but it is quite a thing to hear that you both enjoyed Olive and Mabel so much. If I could, I would send them on a plane to see you. But yes, you're right - a shorter life full of love is far, far more precious than a longer one without. Sending all good thoughts your way, from all of us and giving them a hug from Sarah. xx

[@comealongcomealong4480]

@Evan Edwards I'm so sorry to hear that you won't have as long with your spirited girl Sarah as you would have chosen. How achingly hard for you to let her go this Easter Sunday past. Your words here created a beautiful picture of the quiet TN life and love you both shared. 💞I'm thinking of Sarah with all those guide dogs who brought such happiness to her childhood days.

[@clairbarnard9058]

Oh Evan. There are no words. Hold your memories close and I send you a virtual hug. X

[@pinewoodable]

@ Evan Edwards a big hug to you from me and my pup in the UK. Sending you love and best wishes from across the pond X

[@nancywebb4676]

No matter what is going on in my life, watching and rewatching these videos just makes the world ok even if just for a while.

[@mrandrewcotter]

Perfect. Thank you.

[@AnnathePiana]

Wishing Olive many more years of shorter adventures.

[@mrandrewcotter]

Plenty.

[@caglmdpoof9119]

❤

[@eastwestview]

Good to hear!!!💖

[@Isleofskye]

@@mrandrewcotter How old are they now, please, Andrew? Next week on the periphery of London,I am looking after a 19-year-old, half poodle/collie for 2 weeks and he is fine bit the Owners say, not, overly interested in walks these days:)

[@Tantejuju65]

Andrew, watching Olive and Mable having so much joy as you take them on adventures is so lovely...my rescue Betty, a 18mo white mini Schnauzer, loves watching their adventures as well.

[@AlisonUnderhilll-nc8du]

Lovely, Andrew. Thank you for taking us on this beautiful trip. You and the girls have been missed. Look at these tributes. You do know you’ve given us a special gift over the past few years, right? Thank you!

[@comond]

I really do think that the BBC are missing a trick... they really should have their own series "Out and About with Olive and Mabel", much better than some of the tosh we have to put up with.

[@lyndaseagrave417]

I for one would love to see that !!! ❤🐾🐾

[@JR-iw8du]

Wouldn't that be brilliant!!!! Dogs and beautiful scenery....nothing better. 😊😊😊🐶

[@thomasfrancis5747]

With the narrative and videography skills, not to mention the appeal of two naughty dogs, this has got smash hit series written all over it.

[@vtee361]

Maybe Netflix could pick it up…better than some of the other rubbish we all had to endure lately ( if you know what I mean 🤴)

[@boomshine87]

The BBC don't deserve Olive and Mabel

[@chrisb7142]

Just incredibly poignant with the addition of your thoughtful words, coupled with knowing that Olive and Mabel are dogs and their lifespan isn't terribly long. You're all enjoying the time you have. What lucky dogs, and you, their luckiest of companions, to be able to share this time outside in all of that splendid beauty. It really takes one's breath away....

[@ellehough2746]

I wanted to express my gratitude to the beautiful Olive and Mabel for bringing me joy during very uncertain and stressful times - their adventures during the pandemic were such a welcome relief! With love always, a fan from Texas

[@mrandrewcotter]

Thank you.

[@didntlistendad]

There’s a book too…

[@peldridge2627]

True, this. True.

[@ggbythesea9231]

Also from Texas, & it's still "uncertain & stressful times".. I am *still* so very ThankFULL. I *Love* Olive. & this channel! Take Care, Andrew, & goood Dawgs!💫💖💫

[@rankinrocks7806]

You have many fans in Texas. I'm another Texan who is also thankful.

[@alexontheedge]

Beautiful! The scenery _and_ the relationship with the dogs...

[@annedavis6090]

The photo of Olive with the light on her face. and Mabel, just being herself. I love these dogs. Thanks Mr Cotter🪻

[@anne-marie9842]

That last photo of them back home, asleep, brought tears to my eyes. Thank you for sharing this trip with us.

[@johnmaclean1322]

Superb. There are times when Mabel has probably the most innocent guilty face I've ever seen.

[@eastwestview]

💗

[@Sonnie125]

My heart skips a beat every time I see Olive and Mabel next to the cliff edge .. They are two beautiful dogs .. Such characters ! 🏴󠁧󠁢󠁳󠁣󠁴󠁿🐶

[@waterydepths5584]

It's good that you recognize Olive's age and physical abilities. They will try to stay up with you even when it hurts; they love you so much.

[@playhooky]

So true; dogs will push themselves so hard to keep up with you that they can injure themselves.

[@heidirosin5577]

And then they won't let you know they're hurting because they don't want the pack to leave them behind.

[@brunoyvres4939]

Just back from Arrochar. Scotland is so beautiful. Here’s to independence.

[@IlGattonero13]

Aw, Andrew. Now you’ve made me all teary. Such beauty and feeling. All my best wishes to you three.

[@llamasugar5478]

One of the bitterest injustices in life is that our precious animal companions don’t live as long as people do. Love seeing Olive and Mabel; thank you so much for sharing them with us!! Long may they wag. 🥰

[@nooiewiener5069]

Thank you for taking us with you. Lovely to see you all, glad Olive got a 'last' outing. Beautiful scenery.

[@barbarawiddowson635]

Thank you for clarifying that Olive is fine.For a moment there I was starting to worry.Thank you once again for showing the breathtaking scenery and letting us spend a few moments with Olive and Mabel. I loved the chauffeur driven (limo) bike ride back home for Olive,alas age creeps up on us all!

[@lisafalzetta9116]

I’m glad I wasn’t the only one who was worried about Olive. I’m so glad she’s okay and that this was her “retirement from hiking” video. ❤. Lovely and sweet girls, Andrew, thank you!

[@chickenlady3155]

It'll be a shame not to see any more big adventures with Olive. But she's done more than enough to deserve a long and dignified retirement.

[@pippas5808]

Although I'm not sure 'dignified' is the word I'd use to describe her posture in the final photo 😄

[@chickenlady3155]

@@pippas5808Yes, that's true. I guess I was thinking she's generally a little more dignified in comparison to her younger sibling, though admittedly that's not a high standard to surpass. 🙂

[@comealongcomealong4480]

@@pippas5808 Reminds me of a Dowager Duchess who's been a little too heavy into the brandy.

[@bilbomoondog9429]

Two dog night

[@tinaheal]

Beautiful dogs, scenery and words.

[@ejasmith]

This made me cry. We don't deserve dogs most of the time. I hope Olive gets all the rest she wants 😢

[@badger9156]

Same 😢

[@hlwhhlwh2351]

@@badger9156 Me too.

[@rachelcritchley805]

And me

[@kerryminigringo]

I think it’s one of life’s great little pleasures being tucked up in bed and your canine friend snoring beside you safe in the knowledge they are protecting and being protected by their person. Love this video as well Andrew.

[@katrinaj3757]

Lovely video. Gorgeous doggies. Beautiful scenery. Olive and Mabel looked like they enjoyed their trip. Such happy little souls.

[@generaldisarray]

❤❤❤🐕🐕🐕🤣🤣🤣 Thanks for sharing Andrew, Olive, and Mabel, safe travels. They don't look at the view 'cos you are their world.

[@creativenative5175]

So true!

[@marilynvickers3545]

Goodness thank you Mr Cotter, Olive and Mabel I smile and get a lump in my throat at the same time❤ it’s so lovely to catch up with you all, thank you very much for taking us along 😊

[@lizfox4624]

I watch this every time I lose faith in the world. I can’t have a dog because I’m in rented accommodation but this is two very, very good dogs living their best lives and it’s so lovely to watch it’s heartwarming. I could leave it there but I did say to my husband once that I wish I was “one of Andrew Cotter’s dogs” ha ha! Beautiful videos that make us all feel warm and me say weird stuff 😂 x

[@muber9788]

Well, if this is to be Olives last big adventure in the mountains she is going out on a high note. What a lovely trip and how lucky are Olive and Mabel to have you for a Dad. Thank you for sharing this adventure with us.

[@sarahblohm361]

My disability means that getting to places like this is a distant memory - so thank you for sharing your adventures. Olive & Mabel videos = wholesomeness + criminal levels of cuteness.

[@guydavies3035]

I share that feeling entirely. Born in Inverness, in my younger days I enjoyed both the Highlands and the Lake District in England, when we moved there. Now living in South Africa, but a rugby injury caught up with me, near.y 25 years ago and have been using a wheelchair ever since. But I still have my dogs.

[@vtee361]

You and the pups helped us all around the world get through the worst of the pandemic with your humour and the dogs’ innocence. Now you continue to make us smile with these wonderful vids on life in general. Thank you

[@wandamercer6964]

Thank you. I will always remember how you and the dogs made me smile during the pandemic.

[@laurastuart3814]

Dogs, not pups.

[@vtee361]

@@laurastuart3814 seriously…??!! Get a life. Not that you would be aware but most dog lovers say “ pups” As a term of endearment but then again you don’t seem to be someone that would have that in you. Don’t take life so seriously. 😩

[@rubychurch3466]

Whenever I’m sad, I watch another Mabel and Olive video. They’re so lucky and so loved. And in return so are you Andrew. Please keep making them.

[@joannabethconner2653]

What a beautiful hike! You have made two dogs (and your viewers) very happy.

[@cathcoll7961]

Olive and Mabel you girls are so adorable ❤️❤️ So lucky too have your amazing dad and family ❤️❤️

[@Clio26]

What an absolutely perfect video showing the beauty of the Cairngorms and the 'fun' of camping with Olive and Mabel. Beautifully narrated by you. Thankyou as always.😊

[@WondrousPurple]

I agree completely -- the balance between the two aspects was wonderful.

[@eastwestview]

Absolutely, gorgeous narration, Andrew! And delightful, as always

[@markh.6687]

Doggos at end: "We had fun, we home!" Thanks Mr. Cotter for sharing your animals and life with us, even if we don't get Squeaky Toys to squeak along with Olive and Mabel.

[@Missfrankiecat]

Oh God, I thought you were going to tell us something awful about Olive at the end. Thank goodness you all had a splendid time and made it back safely.

[@Welivebythesea]

I was holding my breath!

[@wk633]

I cried anyways.

[@Sisteryoda1440]

@@wk633 Me too. Just because.

[@AlisonUnderhilll-nc8du]

Whew! Me, too! Hopefully, she, both she’s, will be around for awhile more.

[@janicekrieger1922]

Yes, I was terrified!

[@mordart714]

Both Olive and Mabel are just a treat. And seeing the landscape, imagining thousands of years ago people standing on those summits? Breathtaking.

[@kirschrot77]

I hope Olive is still a long time with us

[@jenniferwillcox]

I haven’t seen Mabel and Olive in awhile, they bring us such joy, you Mr. Cotter are a lovely man and a fantastic dad to your fur babies 😊

[@JenMaxon]

Gorgeous, stunning landscape - lucky girls. Lucky you. Olive's a good girl.

[@JamesG19771]

I had to say the final goodbye to my black Lab Indigo 2 weeks ago, and yes the seasons move by fast for our 4 legged friends. But as you have done and shared with us all, there are so many wonderful moments and memories along the way to hold on to. I hope Olive enjoys her retirement but also hope we get to continue sharing in her less strenuous adventures.

[@janicekrieger1922]

💔 So sorry for your loss. I still miss all my pets from over the years.

[@sarahmay3307]

I’m sorry for you losing Indigo. Time passes too quickly for our dogs. X

[@philipr1567]

Wistful perhaps, but uplifting and utterly beautiful. Thank you Mr Andrew Cotter. May Dog bless Olive and Mabel always.

[@tuckermom1996]

The shot of those two sleek beauties, one fair, one dark, coming out of the loch is just magnificent. I will never see that in real life so I thank you for recording it. And I echo the writer who expressed gratitude for sharing O+M with us during the dreary pandemic when we were all cooped up and afraid. You three brought me and millions other such happiness.

[@JoKeet1]

There is nothing like making outdoor memories with your dogs. So special!! Thank you for sharing yours ❤❤❤❤❤

[@happysprollie]

Two of the happiest dogs in the world.

[@scottredmond7998]

Oh to live the lives of Olive and Mabel. We should all strive to enjoy everything as they do.

[@weswolever7477]

Long time, no see ... this made my day Mr Cotter and doggies ❤

[@MsSweetpea1958]

Olive and Mabel are living their best life. Sometimes when they look up at you, you can see their gratitude on their furry faces.

[@janedieuart]

We just love these magical little videos. They illustrate so well the simple pleasure of living with dogs.❤

[@Judymontel]

Simple?

[@scottrobertson5554]

Imagine a life of just walking dogs every day among wonderful scenery. Absolute bliss.

[@EllieTheWheaten]

​@@scottrobertson5554 so true!!

[@hughwalker5628]

Pure joy! We took our black lab Lily to Loch Lomond. She decided that swimming the width of the Loch was do-able. Frightening. But dog memories are the best memories.

[@kimrojewski3381]

There is nothing better than the deep sleep of a tired dog after an excursion. My dog is old, and beach runs are enough and always fill my heart wirh joy, so I wish that for you too

[@mrandrewcotter]

Plenty of beach runs still to come.

[@KarynjeanD]

It’s always a great day when I get to see Olive and Mabel!

[@hydraxisfrimon9785]

Another little gem, and the final still was a treasure all of its own. Such a lovely piece of country, and while it is impossible for some of us to do what you do, thank you for taking us there and showing us the sparse beauty of the Scottish mountains at this time of year.

[@heidirosin5577]

The words "thank you" don't begin to express my gratitude for your willingness to go to the lengths you do (the filmography, editing, etc.) to share such beauty, love, and grace but they are all I have, so thank you.

[@lorena5820]

Thank you, Andrew, because somehow you have managed to take me with you and just relax.

[@maryschwab6674]

I don't know how I didn't find you before, but I'm so glad I finally found you! You and your puppies are a national treasure!!😘😘

[@moragf8175]

"blaming altitude for your difficulties", a classic remark. Stunning scenery, good weather and your best companions for an adventure in Scotland, what more could you wish for? Good times to be savoured indeed.

[@alisont.6940]

That sound of a dog walking through water when there are almost no other sounds around is my favorite sound in the world. They may be asking for treats but they are very much experiencing and loving these trips. They can do both at once! They are the best thing you do together. Happy trails!

[@fluffer4049]

So true, Mr. Cotter. No regrets that a dog lived it’s best life.

[@denisedoran8734]

Wow I think Scotland is literally heaven just stunning. Aww Olive and Mabel snoring in the tent is ❤

[@jackiestephens1716]

Andrew…your videos leave me with the warmest most wonderful feelings. To say I Thank You just doesn’t seem adequate, I am overwhelmed with the beauty of the landscapes you show us. I hope you are inspired to know you have such an impact❤️

[@lorettahiggins3717]

There's just nothing better than a video with Olive and Mabel, absolutely stunning vistas and your deep, resonant, playful, articulate, often poetic voice-overs. Brilliant.

[@kathhastings5232]

A mistake. I love it.😊

[@TSBS986]

Beautiful. The years just rush by for our fur babies. I find myself slowing down with them just to savour every moment I have with my two precious old ladies. Love your videos.

[@gatorgityergranny]

thanks for the reassurances regarding Olive. i am 73 and it sometimes seems that every. damned.person i kno. is dying. and of course we all kind of are.

[@jacquelinewesson1202]

Thank you, lovely to see the girls again

[@felsenruh]

Dear Mr. Cotter: Another perfect day with perfect friends. A day you are entitled to hold close to your heart and mind and yet you've shared it with the world. I am humbled. thank you!

[@archiecat4182]

This was so lovely and poignant. I love the videos you make with Mabel & Olive, they warm the heart and gladden the soul. ❤

[@dodge_walks]

I cannot tell you how much joy your videos have bought me over the last few years.

[@suemick8709]

Their little doggy hearts are so loving. They adore you and are happy on any adventure, big or small, when you include them. Thank you for sharing your wonderful dogs and the scenery.

[@elainemackie1431]

What a beautiful video Andrew - I’m currently sleeping on a mattress in my living room as my 14 year old standard poodle can’t get upstairs to our bedroom anymore. One day she couldn’t get in the car, the next week she couldn’t do her big walk - it creeps up fast. We’ve adapted - smaller walks and sleeping on a mattress beside her downstairs is the least I can do for for all she’s given me. She’s a bit wobbly in her back legs so I’m using a harness to steady her when she squats but she’s still eating like a horse and eager for her ‘baby’ walks but I know time isn’t on her side so I relish every second I’ve still got her

[@lynnegee6814]

@elainemackie1431 Might it be worth asking your vet for a referral to a dog chiropractor?

[@ruthopenstone3432]

We've grown to love your doggos and your humorous commentary. This one reveals a soulfulness that touches all of our hearts. So many thank you's, Andrew.

[@mimzyc9949]

I’m so happy to see Olive and Mabel again. And the scenery wasn’t bad either.

[@AaronSpielman]

Man. I've got to get myself and my wife back to Scotland. We haven't been since our honeymoon in 1995. Great video!

[@22leggedsasquatch]

The 3 of you need to have your own TV rambling and touring series.. 'Outdoor Scotland' 😀

[@patriciaschiebold8511]

I’m smiling as I watch this. Labs take over your life- in a good way. We have 2 yellows. This brings us great joy and laughter

[@MichaelClarkeEsquire]

Stunning video, wonderful camera work and silky smooth commentary. I could happily watch an entire series of Andrew Cotter exploring the wilds with Olive and Mabel. Someone somewhere make it happen.

[@airmangirard]

Long live Olive and Mabel. Thanks Mr Cotter for making the post, it's like following family at this point. Kudos also to your drone pilot buddy for their talents.

[@karenwilliams4362]

I know these videos are rare , now you're back at your day job, but that just makes them even more precious. Beautifully shot, and such lovely sentiments. Thank you Mr Cotter xx

[@Sunny_Now_and_Then]

Wonderful video! Those girls both mean a lot to those of us who have followed thru the pandemic. No dog's life is ever long enough, is it. Sorry to see Olive slowing down! Wishing you all a lovely summer!!

[@MohamedSinclair]

The fact that none of you three have been granted knighthoods (or even, 'very, very good dogs' for Olive and Mabel) for 'services to the world above and beyond the call of duty in difficult times' is quite beyond me! Bless you all!!!

[@Are_We_Having_Tea]

Thank you for taking us along to your beautiful mountains. I’m going through the same situation with Rocket the Trail Running Dog. He’s 12 and has developed a heart murmur, so no more long mountain runs, just short easy jogs on cool days. He so wants to go . It’s so hard to be wise for them.

[@mrandrewcotter]

So true.

[@eastwestview]

“So hard to be wise for them.” So poignantly said🪷

[@finneganpupsavedbythebell]

Gorgeous nothing better then sleeping with you dogs hearing their gentle snores,all in right in you world

[@deborahcornell171]

I think I'm going to take a tip from Mabel & start blaming the altitude for my difficulties...even though I don't live near any mountains. Much love from Kentucky (the non-mountainous part) U.S. 💙🏔🌿💙

[@leeklastorin5800]

Always a few moments of bliss to see Olive and Mabel, along with their dad and his deadpan and loving narration. Thank you Mr.Cotter for sharing the real pleasures and for keeping the story going!

[@suezeeq]

Loved watching this. Olive has had some amazing adventures. Now it's time for her to put her paws up more often and continue to be thoroughly spoilt for the rest of her life. Thanks for the update.

[@marshatomkins7989]

Ahh, thank you.❤ 1. Olive and Mabel again 2. Beautiful scenery 3. These might be the luckiest dogs in the world. You give them such a full life.

[@EyeC999]

Thank you, Andrew, Olive and Mabel, for filling my heart with joy today, as only you can do ❤

[@sacredkingfisher6714]

Andrew, your videos are balm to the soul.. Now halfway through my eighties, I live in a forest where we're not allowed dogs to preserve the ground living bird life .I miss them - having had seventeen rescued dogs, three at a time... so Mabel and Olive are a beautiful gift to such as I. Thank you,, for your compassion and humanity and for sharing Olive and Mabel ...

[@mrandrewcotter]

Thank you.

[@Welivebythesea]

Time ticks too quickly for dogs and yet it creeps up on us. My old boy was diagnosed with congestive heart disease last year. No hikes or even long walks for him these days. I'm just glad to still have him around. And I'm glad to see Olive and Mabel. But a one person tent with two labs! What were you thinking? A double bed with a springer and a cat is struggle enough

[@septembergirl007]

I would LOVE to go on that beautiful adventure with Olive and Mabel! They also made great memories!! 💕

[@ajm1268]

These videos always make me smile, the world can be a beautiful place thanks for sharing it with us

[@pjeannechild]

Oh. My. God. This new direction is just captivating, let alone the scenery. It’s a privilege to have watched your talent find its unique outlet. You three are a treasure.

[@mrandrewcotter]

That's very kind. Thank you.

[@TranslatorTuber]

That loch was just incredible!

[@Scott-sd1zj]

What a combination, amazing scenery, sublime commentary from Andrew Cotter and of course…Olive and Mabel. 😊

[@DonnaRR]

Tears of joy ….you with your dogs, so well behaved. The scenery, absolutely breath taking. How can I say thank you very much. Please continue doing what you do best. Thank you very much for the joy! 🐾🐾❤️

[@maggie6479]

I am so happy to see you three so fit and happy. What a beautiful adventure.

[@apricotcookie4850]

I love these two dogs so much. Thank you for sharing them with us so generously. I wish you many many more happy, healthy years together.

[@christhompson9819]

Just a wonderfully understated commentary to compliment the friendship and the scenery . Loved seeing the girls again

[@eastwestview]

Beautifully stated💝

[@cherylgibson1136]

Andrew I followed you through Covid - it kept me sane - I didnt know you were still doing video. I love Olive and Mabel. Keep them coming PLEASE!!

[@Ewen6177]

A simple thumbs up is not enough for this. This was utterly lovely and so truthful of what we all should do.

[@eastwestview]

Perfectly said!

[@louannwaters6691]

The scenery is awe inspiringly beautiful! Olive and Mabel are amazing travel companions. Their love is true and honest. Thank you for sharing your adventure with us🐾❤️

[@joshuarosen6242]

I love taking my dog for a walk and she loves it too. We get different things from it. I love the moors, she loves eating sheep poo but we both enjoy ourselves and enjoy each other's company. My dog is 12 now and too old to go on really long walks but even if it's just a walk round the nearby tarn or down to the park we both love it and I'm grateful to her for her company.

[@AnneFlint-u4q]

Thank you for including us with Olive's last 😢 big hike. Thoroughly enjoy watching Olive and Mabel's adventures. Your play by play is absolutely hilarious ❤️! 🤣