It is with a heavy heart that I have to report that TIC has passed away at age 16 yrs 9 months.

I started a post 5 yrs ago about him turning 12 & did some yearly updates.

http://forums.accuratereloadin...9021043/m/8521085051

I got him as a surprise 39th birthday present from my wife (I thought I was getting

a Craftsman rolling tool chest!). He has been a constant companion for the last

17 years. He taught me so much about hunting sharptail grouse, Hungarian partridge,

chukkars & pheasant. I have 3 other GSP's but he was by far the best hunter (best nose,

best retriever, covered the terrain the best & was very biddable). He kind of ruined me

as I thought all dogs should be like him.

I do take solace in the fact that I believe that a dog couldn't have a much better

life. He always had companions (labs & GSP's), lived in the house with us, ate

table scraps too often & was treated like the King he was.

We are very fortunate to live on a ranch in good upland bird country so he

essentially hunted every day of his life. Here's a pic of him at age 3-4.



Here's a pic at age 16 with his last retrieve.



As they age I know it's inevitable, but he stayed pretty healthy until the day

before he passed. I'm sure gonna miss the little fellow

Jim

Wow, 17 years. A great run. I feel for you. Sorry for your loss. Cherish the memories.

Dog led a full life. He enjoyed it as much as you did I think.
Sorry for your loss.

Sorry for your loss. Looks like a lot of good years behind the dog.

a great dog never lives long enough, sorry for your loss.

My condolences. I've been there myself and know what it's like. I'm headed to N. Dakota tomorrow to chase pheasants with my fourth labrador. Take pride in the fact that you gave him a great life.

I have followed your posts over the years and feel for your lost, I too lost one of my pals earlier this year at 14 yrs and 8 months. It is a void that will never be filled but as I believe we will all be together in a better place, just to bad we can't be on the same train when we leave for it, it would be more like a going away party

Sorry for your loss. Always sad when a good friend passes away. Enjoy the memories you shared.

You had him a long time, and I bet you are thankful for the memories you and he have.
My condolences.

My condolences i know what you feel .Beautifull dog only a new puppie can mitigate the pain .