Irish Setter

Red is primarily our family dog. He is probably the best bird dog I've ever owned, but an even better family dog. Although Red has an inbred desire to and love for hunting, I do believe he loves being with the family - especially the kids - even more.

Sometimes the boys will take off across the field to play some new game and Red will be right there with them. He is so much a part of their life that he's got a role in everything they dream up.

I remember the boys were once pretending that Red was an escaped dragon they had to save from knights wanting to capture him. Another time, Red was a giant alien dog from Mars that came to Earth to find dog food to take back to the red planet; they had him dressed up in a football helmet and aluminum foil as a space suit! It never seems to matter what role he must play; Red is just happy to have a part. He's become a really great actor, as our photo album clearly shows.

When the day is done and the kids are in bed, Red comes to lay at my feet, plum worn out from the day's play. We talk a bit and I thank him for watching over the kids. He acknowledges my praise with the most intelligent expression in his eyes. I am sure he knows what I'm saying.

Since I get up much earlier than the boys, Red comes with me as I do my various morning chores. It's at that time of day that I feel he is mine to enjoy, at least until the kids get up and he leaves me for their world of make believe.