Tribute to an Old Dog

[Gary Laudermilch]

Lovely thread Harold. I can only imagine the memories you two have shared, but I can relate.

Trapper, my oldest of 3 setters will turn 14 next month. His mind and heart say go but his body not so much. Memories? He and I are full of them as I've shot grouse over him in New Brunswick, Maine, New Hampshire, Vermont, New York, Pennsylvania, West Virginia, and Michigan. Oh my, what a time we have had!

[Harold Pickens]

All those pictures of Shiner were taken since the middle of October, and although Shiner was the reason I started this thread, I have another setter who will be 10 this spring. Betty is the best setter I have ever had, and she lives to hunt for me. She is out of Shiner and my dear old setter Speck who has passed. I don't think I will ever forgive myself for not having bred her.
The picture was from this past October in the UP.
Hey Gary, which one of those handsome guys is you?

[C.O.B.]

After 15 years of faithful companionship we lost Willie aka The Binkers" yesterday. he blew his knee out at a year old and it's been held together with 150lb test monofilament ever since. The vet said it would be un likely he would hunt again and he was correct. Binkers showed promise but it just wasn't meant to be. He was a great companion and for years a vigilant watch dog, a gentle soul with a big heart. He is missed terribly.