Old Man, Old Dog, and Young Pup

Nearly seven months after the end of last year’s hunting season -- cut short by an old-man ailment -- I’m ready to go again.

At least I think I am.

Almost every morning for the last couple of months the dogs and I have walked a brisk mile. At least Ace and I cover a mile while Dot does at least three times that racing through the sagebrush.

Fortunately, I don’t have to keep up with her. An electronic collar keeps Dot in check.

Ace, on the other hand, is kept in check by his advancing age. Stone deaf, he seldom leaves my side, but he still insists on going. If I leave him at home and take Dot,...