Brody’s quest to be the ultimate retriever goes awry

A couple of weeks ago, Elliott and I went duck hunting in the state of Washington. Our host had a black lab named Merc that was an outstanding retriever. Elliott and I were impressed with Merc’s duck retrieving prowess. 

 

This got me thinking, could Brody do this? As I always wanted a fish-finding, stock-trading, and duck-retrieving dog, I decided to start training Brody soon as I got home.

 

Of course, I know nothing about training a dog to retrieve. But, how hard can it be for a fish-finding and stock-trading dog? As it turns out, it’s pretty darn hard. Brody seemed to enjoy chasing the fake duck. However, bringing the fake duck back was problematic. Oh, he could do it. But only when he felt like it. Most of the time Brody would pick up the duck and run around the yard at full speed.  

 

Somehow, while running around, Brody injured his left front paw. So, I called the veterinarian. He recommended a few days of rest. If Brody was still limping after the rest period, I would take him to the clinic. Before I hung up the phone, the veterinarian reminded me that rest means no fishing or boating. Reluctantly, I agreed.

 

The next morning, I quietly attempted to sneak out of the house and go fishing. Brody limped to the back door (carrying the fake duck) and gave me a sad look. I did not have the heart to leave him. Instead, I decided to make Brody his favorite breakfast. Pancakes!  

 

After breakfast, Brody and I settled onto the sofa and watched fishing shows on YouTube. Soon, Brody was asleep. I thought about sneaking out and going fishing but decided against it. I figured it was best that Brody and I take a break from fishing together.

 

Brody will probably not become a champion retriever. But, in our down time, he is getting quite good at crossword puzzles.

 

Contact Captain Greg Peralta at captgregp@gmail.com or call (843) 224-0099.