I had the pleasure of visiting my good friends BG & Sam this past weekend in Wallingford, CT. Not only had I not yet had the chance to meet their 10-month old puppy, but BG is due to pop at any moment with their first [human] baby as well!! My college roommate?!
Meet Bailer, a Nova Scotia Duck-Tolling Retriever:
What is duck-tolling, you ask? Well Sam and Bailer kindly acted it out for me, and Bailer twirled around and around (and around) in circles. According to Wikipedia, the breed is one of the most unique in terms of bird/gun dogs:
The hunter stays hidden in a blind and sends the dog out to romp and play near the water, usually by tossing a ball or stick to be retrieved. The dog’s activity and white markings pique the curiosity of waterfowl, who swim over to investigate. The act of enticing or luring game to approach is known as “tolling”. When the birds are close, the hunter calls the dog back to the blind, then rises, putting the birds to flight, allowing him a shot. The Toller then retrieves any downed birds.
It was only an afternoon visit, but wooonderful to see my friends building a home and growing family together. BG & Sam, I’m so happy for you! And Bailer, thanks for playing in the rain with me!
by Stacey
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