A little bit o' this, and a little bit o' that...

First, I'd like to draw everyone's attention to another new listing in the blogroll.
Dogs and Doubles is the name, and there are lots of great entries concerning vintage upland shotguns and Pointing dogs. Check this site out and enjoy the read..

Second, and this is of great importance to us all. Go over to A Piece of the Purest Challenge, and read the current series about pure bred dogs and the toll that their genetic flaws take upon them, and us, the owners. Be forwarned, parts of the video can be graphic and somewhat disturbing, but we can no longer bury our collective heads in the sand and pretend that everything is hunky-dory, because it isn't! Thus far, there are five parts to this series, and look for more.
The folks that are responsible for this site are very knowledgable and caring... Give it a look...

Third, it's not too early to start thinking about Christmas for the special handler in your life. We've mentioned Larry Smith, The Knotsmith, before. He produces superb lanyards and dog related leatherwork, all braided by hand to your selected color scheme and dimensions. Since these are handcrafted products, they do require some time to produce, but I can guarantee that the results are well worth the wait.. And, the recipient will admire the quality and craftsmanship for many Christmas' to come..
Got to The Knotsmith's site, and peruse the lanyards and other equipment. I happen to own a Black & Tan (what else) T-2, with extra length. Folks always comment on it..

So, place your order early for the birdhunter in your life, even if that birdhunter is yourself (we deserve it).. And when you call, tell Larry that ole' Black & Tan sent 'ya!

And last but certainly not least, I'll add a quote for today..and this one from the late Gene Hill. A man who knows the kinship of the dog as few others...

"I cant think of anything that brings me closer to tears than when my old dog -- completely exhausted after a hard day in the field -- limps away from her nice spot in front of the fire and comes over to where Im sitting and puts her head in my lap, a paw over my knee, and closes her eyes and goes back to sleep. I dont know what Ive done to deserve that kind of friend."
Gene Hill

Enjoy the day....