September 2024 Edition | Page 54

purpose in life . Their dogs were purchased from professional breeders , many of whom “ eliminated ” their dogs from the herd if they didn ’ t exhibit signs of champion hunting mentality within a few weeks of birth . It was often a cruel world for many pooches who otherwise loved people but couldn ’ t measure up to standards by the dog producer . They were simply removed from the gene pool .

Over time , I began to see the two worlds connecting to hunting . There were dogs who slept on large pillows in the family room and there were dogs who lived in kennels . Bobbi and I wanted no part of the latter . And I ’ m not too proud to admit , there were dogs in our lives that Bobbi might have chosen over me . Fortunately , the decision never came up .

Trial and Error

Countless times when I plopped my tired butt on the couch at the end of a long , exhausting day of walking , tripping , stumbling , rolling through branch-infested limbs in tree rows and cattails , I only needed to glance at my weary dog ’ s cushioned pillow , raise my eyebrows , lift a gentle , open hand toward him and the dog was at my lap . The pooch was welcome on my couch , even if I had to lift him ( her ) to get there in later years .

My hunting dogs , over the years , rode with us in the comfort of the back seat , maybe over a blanket that didn ’ t matter , their whining chins resting on our shoulders as we traversed gravel roads in foreboding darkness toward hunting destinations . When the engine stopped , you got out quickly or got run over .

Growing Into Acceptance Some of our hunting dogs knew nothing about hunting . Yes , it was frustrating at times . But , they never bit anyone and we didn ’ t shoot them . It ’ s easy to recognize a farm dog when you see one , and they were quickly relegated to their proper destination if they didn ’ t capture the plan .

Cody ( above right ) was lovable , docile , laid back . Couldn ’ t house-break him , no matter how

Cody was a beautiful animal , loving but too soft . Didn ’ t much care for the outside elements .

we tried . He was a beautiful yellow Lab , muscular , gallant , soft . Too soft . I was attracted to him because of his beautiful , gentle manner . I thought I might make him a hunter . After all , he was a Lab .

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