Opening weekend of grouse season here in northern MN. It was 10 years ago I had a five month old Golden (Drae) out hunting for the first time. We have both slowed down! He pushing 11 & me, 70. I think we will both do alright this year but next year?? Since that first outing we have hunted 10 species of birds in 4 states. He has been sprayed by a skunk, quills from a porcupine & chased by a Javelina. 10 years, where did they go??

My 10 years has aged both of! Us 2 old farts found 3 birds that luck didn't go their way yesterday.

Drae with his first birds 10 years ago.


yesterday, 10 years later.

Somewhere in between

Drae with Mearns quail


Sharptailed grouse in Nebraska

Great pics, he's a handsome old boy!! Looks like you have made some great memories with him & have a lot more to make!! Congrats on your hunt yesterday, nice!!

Love the mearns! Glad he has had a chance to experience those as those are some fun birds to chase!

The first two pictures are terrific! From youthful exuberance to regal self composure. Anyone who says dogs can't talk is blind, deaf and dumb.

Thanx for the memories DWG

Nice pictures, every one aged but the Beretta.

Doc

My first dog was a Golden.....I really enjoyed those pics!! They wife and I still miss having a Golden around; they're such good dogs.

You lucky dogs...... Dutch.

That's awesome. I have retired my old girl at 11. She's a German Shorthair and now is a couch potato. Although she went and pointed one of my neighbors chuckars that escaped three days ago in short order. Spent $2k on her when she was three to replace both ACL's that she tore hunting. Well worth it though, she was an awesome dog over the years pointing retrieving and blood trailing countless birds and deer for me.

I just got back from the Vet's. The season is over, the dog has a broken toe! Of all things, chasing a squirrel across the yard!!

How many grouse are you allowed to shoot in one day there?

Looks like you got the whole flock.

Great pics and words. Thanks for sharing.