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<  16ga. General Discussion  ~  Hunting companion no longer with us.
Ithacaman
PostPosted: Mon Jan 04, 2010 5:03 pm  Reply with quote
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Joined: 24 Jun 2009
Posts: 30
Location: Homeland of the Timuqua

On Dec. 31, we had to put our Boykin spaniel, Brownie, to sleep. Before the vet gave her the injection, I slipped a pheasant tail under her nose so it was the last thing she scented.

She had the best nose I ever saw. She once "disappered" on a mountain grouse hunting trip when she crawled up under some exposed tree roots on a hillside where some grouse were hiding. Suddenly, a grouse and a brown pup popped out from uder the roots and startled me so much I missed the shot.

She always worked tight for pheasants and grouse and always knew where I was. She'd regularly turn around to look for me. When I'd miss a shot those yellow eyes would give me the coldest stare.

Most importantly, for nearly 13 years she was a vital part of our entire family.

I failed last month to offer condolences to a fellow member who lost his hunting dog. I guess I knew the time was coming for me and I just couldn't bring myself to do it. For that I apologize.
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spr310
PostPosted: Mon Jan 04, 2010 5:56 pm  Reply with quote
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Joined: 02 Oct 2007
Posts: 1975

Sorry to hear of your loss. I also lost a hunting companion this year. Buddy was fourteen and one of the nicest dogs I've ever had. They will never be forgotten though. You've got those special times to remember.
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Gordon Disharoon
PostPosted: Mon Jan 04, 2010 6:07 pm  Reply with quote
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Joined: 17 Jan 2009
Posts: 397
Location: Mesquite, TX.

Ithacaman
Sorry for your loss. I now have the best two dogs I have ever had. Both English Cockers and they are 10 and 8 1/2 yrs old so I have some time to go but I am dreading the day. I don't know you but when the "day" comes I am going to have them cremated. I will be creamated and we will all be together some day. This gives me some comfort.

Give yourself some time and go get a new puppy. You will never forget your dog but a new one can ease the hurt a lot.

Alll the best to you in a time of grief.

Regards, Gordon

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tarpondoc
PostPosted: Mon Jan 04, 2010 7:27 pm  Reply with quote
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Joined: 23 Dec 2009
Posts: 11
Location: Naples, Fl.

Ithacaman,
I am truly sorry for your loss. The passing of a great companion is always difficult. Take heart in that you gave your her dignity to the very end. I can tell you, she will never be replaced. In time when you are ready, I hope you will enjoy raising and training a new pup.
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TJC
PostPosted: Mon Jan 04, 2010 9:42 pm  Reply with quote
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Joined: 20 Mar 2005
Posts: 1522
Location: NH

We've all been there and know the pain. The pain will fade but the memories will last forever.

I like to think the below poem is true.


Rainbow Bridge
Just this side of heaven is a place called Rainbow Bridge.

When an animal dies that has been especially close to someone here, that pet goes to Rainbow Bridge.
There are meadows and hills for all of our special friends so they can run and play together.
There is plenty of food, water and sunshine, and our friends are warm and comfortable.

All the animals who had been ill and old are restored to health and vigor; those who were hurt or maimed are made whole and strong again, just as we remember them in our dreams of days and times gone by.
The animals are happy and content, except for one small thing; they each miss someone very special to them, who had to be left behind.

They all run and play together, but the day comes when one suddenly stops and looks into the distance. His bright eyes are intent; His eager body quivers. Suddenly he begins to run from the group, flying over the green grass, his legs carrying him faster and faster.

You have been spotted, and when you and your special friend finally meet, you cling together in joyous reunion, never to be parted again. The happy kisses rain upon your face; your hands again caress the beloved head, and you look once more into the trusting eyes of your pet, so long gone from your life but never absent from your heart.

Then you cross Rainbow Bridge together....

Author unknown...

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A bad day of hunting is better than a good day of work.
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patriot usa
PostPosted: Mon Jan 04, 2010 9:46 pm  Reply with quote
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Joined: 18 Aug 2008
Posts: 431
Location: peoples socialist republic

Yes, they are family; sorry.

Mine's close to 15 now. She goes on what may be her last hunt Thurs. and I will have the camera. Hope I get a bird for her.

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thunderstick
PostPosted: Tue Jan 05, 2010 11:19 am  Reply with quote



Joined: 23 Jun 2005
Posts: 185
Location: Boulder,Colorado

We lose our great hunting companions and family members far too soon. Its crushing, heartbreaking and nothing anyone can say or do makes it any easier or acceptable. We all know your sorrow; the strong bond between us and our great dogs is truely one of the most remarkable stories of life.
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Hootch
PostPosted: Tue Jan 05, 2010 5:32 pm  Reply with quote



Joined: 28 Mar 2008
Posts: 1460
Location: Eagle, Nebraska

Brings a tear to my eye thinking back a few weeks ago when I had to do the same thing. My daughter gave me a picture of her in a frame for christmas and that made me cry too.

No words can ever help. But there are plenty of us on this board who know and understand.

As a posted on this forum a few weeks ago but bears repeating,

Every day with your dog is great day, except the last one.
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Flawaterfowler
PostPosted: Tue Jan 05, 2010 8:20 pm  Reply with quote



Joined: 02 Jun 2007
Posts: 99
Location: Jacksonville, FL

Sorry to hear about your loss. I had to put our Boykin, Billy, down five years ago and its still painful. Man, what a nose. Man, what a heart. Man, what a crazy SOB.

Im not the chauffeur of a 1 year old lab. The pain does pass, a bit....

Again...so sorry
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Ithacaman
PostPosted: Wed Jan 06, 2010 4:51 am  Reply with quote
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Joined: 24 Jun 2009
Posts: 30
Location: Homeland of the Timuqua

Just knowing there are others out there who have been though this is very comforting to both me and my wife. All of your words hit home in the right way. We are so appreciative. I will no longer ever hesitate to offer help in the form of words of reassurance to anyone in the same situation. This site is the best and you guys proved it.

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"The 16 is a fine choice as an all-around gun, as it patterns about as well as the 12, kicks less, handles enough shot for most purposes, and makes up into a trimmer gun." -Jack O'Connor-
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Dr. David Dabaco
PostPosted: Wed Jan 06, 2010 10:41 pm  Reply with quote
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Joined: 31 Aug 2007
Posts: 238
Location: Lodi, CA

Sorry this is so late, but I also want to offer my condolences for you and your family's loss. Funny how special these dogs are and how blessed we are to be around them. They truly are "family" and will be much missed.

Best,

David
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