Tribute to an Old Dog

[Harold Pickens]

Too often we wait until a dog has passed before we reminisce and pay tribute to the joy it has brought into our lives. Well, Shiner, my male Eng. Setter is 13 today, and I am really enjoying the season he has been giving me. He was the product of a full Ryman female and a grouse trial champion. Yes, his range has shortened up significantly, and he is a little hard of hearing. I have taken at least a dozen grouse over him and just as many pheasant and woodcock already this season alone. I have cherished every point, back, and retrieve that he has given me. He still seems to have a good motor, but I wonder how much he will be able to do next year.
Some have immortalized their dogs in wood and steel, such as the Gunner's Gun, and the Abbey gun. Most of us will have those memories etched in our hearts.
So, gentlemen, let us see and hear about your old dogs, and may they live forever!----and by the way Happy Birthday Shiner