Tribute to a Fine Friend

Blog - 2021 Tribute to Shooter

November 24 – an Anniversary, of sorts. Not one of balloons, laughter and fun…it's a day of reflection. One year ago our much-loved Brittany, Shooter, crossed over, as they say. We had great times together and when he was gone, at the age of eleven, he left a major ache in our hearts. When you have been given the blessing of having such a loyal partner in your family, it is hard to say goodbye.

Shooter was the offspring of Jackson who mated with Lilyteal of the Granholm household. Those two dogs adored each other from the first moment they met and results were more fine, smart, great looking Brittanys. Their litter produced seven, one of which “shot out” as he was born, thereby earning the nickname of Shooter. When we went to see the puppies and watched them playing in the yard, I called out to the one I really liked and “Shooter” came running. I was totally taken! He remained “Shooter”!

When Shooter came home that August, he and Jackson began a long fun relationship. Jackson loved it, after adjusting to this small copy of himself around. The joy of playing with a new puppy is extraordinary. They demand a lot of attention but give back until all are worn out! And then they sleep!

Jackson was a fine upland game bird dog and Shooter was eventually in training. Watching your dog point a quail or chukkar, then retrieve when it hits the ground, is a total thrill. Bringing each bird back proudly with no hesitation is an example of a smart dog’s knowledge of his own job and the relationship he shares with his parent. It is very exciting and satisfying…we were very proud of our boys. They got along, they never growled at each other, never fought. Our lives changed somewhat – it’s not easy to have adventures with two dogs! They went everywhere with us including going fishing, plus several jaunts to Flaming Gorge and became part of many family photos.

Jackson’s first mating had produced Jed who ended up at Garry’s household. The other Gary subsequently became the parent of Cassie, result of another mating with Lilyteal. The days Jed and Cassie came to visit Shooter were amazing. We're all still in awe, recalling the time Jackson took each puppy, separately, for a walk in our pasture, visited, then walked each one back to us – a moment in time! We wondered – did Jackson know these were his children?

When Jackson left us we were fortunate that both Gary’s were with us and stayed at the hospital with him – we simply could not. We felt the loss intensely but Shooter did provide comfort. He didn’t understand but adjusted to being the only dog in the household, in time. Shooter was a total love – he was kind and gentle and very likeable. He followed us around, understood actions and many words and caused few problems.

We talked about it…that “Dog People” mentality – Shooter was so important to our personal lives and we talked about what would happen when he was gone. Locating a partner for Shooter did not materialize, so, after much research and several phone calls, in came nine-week old Gunner!

A total joy of a dog! A total re-awakening! We have had the privilege of caring for many

dogs over the years and this newest experience is unlike any other. This dog is in a world of his own! He is bright, aggressive, determined, energetic, gregarious, silly, intelligent, anxious to please and a marvelous addition to our family. I could not imagine a better match! Initially he required a lot of attention and wore us out but fortunately, he grew and time passed and he survived. Now we are quick to give advice to other folks…we tell them…”old people should not get a puppy”!! But, we say that with smiles on our faces.

But, back to Shooter…who adjusted well to this new intrusion into his life. The dogs played and ran and slept in a heap. But, as time went on, Shooter began to slow down, his hearing was limited, his appetite was gone. That brings us to November 24 – Shooter was terribly uncomfortable…the time had come. We wanted to help him and did – a call to the vet, a direct trip to the vet, their kind and prompt attention…and their final call.

And now…some advice. I read the posts on social media…I know how you feel and offer sympathy. Those of you who suffer through the loss of your pet are justified. Nothing comes close to the emotions we feel when we lose a pet and companion, a fishing or hunting partner, a pet who gives comfort without asking for anything more than a pat on the head. It is a tremendous loss, lessened only by the passage of time – and there’s always that lump in the throat at mention of the name that lasts forever. Do yourself a big favor…make your home a haven for a dog.

If you already have a dog, and as he ages, think ahead and get yourself, and that dog…a replacement. It is wonderful to watch the old dog accept the new one – and it really will happen. It is enjoyable and, after the adjustment, they do become devoted to each other.

Eventually, Garry’s Jed left. A quiet time ruled that household until Garry got busy and tracked down Cici, a gorgeous Brittany. They are so thankful that things are back to their normal. And now the other Gary says Cassie is winding down. As with all living things, the end is in sight. Well…maybe! With the sadness of losing a dog, comes the happiness of finding one who fills that void in your heart. That’s what it’s all about…filling lives with those things that bring us happiness and joy.

Shooter was not our first dog, nor will Gunner be our last. We, like so many of you, are confirmed “Dog People”. That’s a title we all understand…we willingly alter our lives to accommodate our furry kids. We think back fondly to Hooker, Bowie, Crockett, Boone, Jackson and Shooter. We appreciate all the more the affection and devotion we now receive from Gunner - the love is unconditional, from both sides.

Do yourself a big favor…Make your home a haven for a dog. It’s simple…he, or she, is out there, waiting for you!