She stepped inside the RV and there sat Aloka the Peace Dog, four-legged ambassador for the Buddhist monks who so enchanted Raleigh — a fur-covered symbol for the purpose-driven life.
Like thousands, Erin O’Leary watched the monks pass through the Triangle on their celebrated walk to spread mindfulness and compassion., a trek that inspired pilgrims across Raleigh to wave, bow and spread rose blossoms on the frigid asphalt.
But as a house-call veterinarian, O’Leary felt special affection for Aloka, the monks’ walking companion hobbled by a ligament tear, who gazed on the adoring crowds from the comfort of his RV cushion, peeking through the window with ears cocked jauntily upward.
“I was bawling,” O’Leary said, describing her monk experience, “so I had to reach out.”…