It's been a very tough week. Monday evening my dogs got out of our fence and my 3yr old male shorthair, Tucker, got hit by a car and was killed. He passed away way too young. He was always full of energy and putting a smile on everybody's face, so much personality. I've learned a lot through this process. Losing a pet doesn't compare, at least for me, to losing a bird dog you've had your whole life and trained. He wasn't perfect, no dog is, but he was coming along nicely and was only getting better. He always had a huge will to please. One thing I've definitely learned is to make that extra time for your dogs even when you're busy with every day stuff. Every day when I let him out he'd run around the yard until he found a toy or ball or anything I could throw and he'd bring it to me, most days I'd throw it around for him but some I'd be busy with other things and not have the time for it. I'd give anything to throw that ball or bumper for him one last time. I never once saw him get tired. It was a freak accident and nobody's fault, just something that happened and unfortunately it cost me one of my best friends and hunting partners. I've still got Abby and it has definitely affected her. She hasn't really acted the same since. They both got out and they always stuck together I'm pretty sure she probably saw the whole thing. She's lost a friend just like I have, she doesn't leave my side as soon as I get home. If you've never lost a hunting companion, brace yourself, it's tougher than I ever could've imagined. I know he's in a better place with more birds than he knows what to do with and he'll be waiting for me when I get there.

RIP Tuck. You're missed more than you'll ever know.

R.I.P. Tucker, I hope you & J.R. are getting to hunt together up there. See y'all when I get there, save some birds for me.

Nobody could have said it more eloquently. Sorry for your loss.

Terribly sorry. I know I'll be out of commission for a long time when that time comes.

I am very sorry for your loss. Those who have not trained a dog, for any venue, do not understand the bond between a dog and his owner.

My have my deepest sympathies. I feel your pain. RIP Tucker.

Slow......

Sorry to hear about Tucker. You will never be able to fully replace him.

Deepest sympathies. I'm so sorry

Sorry.

Sorry about your pup. I have always been secure in my knowledge of Rainbow Bridge. May you find comfort in it too.

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...

I feel your pain!!!!!!

I'm so sorry for your loss. We are only lent these wonderful companions for a short amount of time until they are called home.

Sorry for your loss.

Sorry for your loss. Lost my shorthair the same way a little over a year ago. It's tough but it gets easier with time.

So sorry for your loss. Hang in there and treasure the memories.

I hate to hear that.

Condolences.

Sorry for your loss

Thank you all for the kind words. It's hard. This first season without him is going to be weird. He's in a better place. I'll hunt over his point again one day.

Man I am so sorry to hear about your dog. Having lost two wonderful dogs to tragic accidents myself in the last 18 months I know how terrible it is. Will be praying for you.