Upland Hunting with a Vizsla - From Our Hearts - A Project Upland Original FIlm
Entertainment
Introduction
My name is Rich Wong, a 42-year-old food photographer, and I want to share my journey with my incredible companion, Hunter. We welcomed Hunter, a Vizsla with a rebel rouser lineage, into our family in 2007 when he was just a 10-week-old puppy born in October. Despite his wild beginnings and high energy, I was hunting with him the very next season.
Hunter proved to be a driven and spirited dog, especially during his peak at around eight years old, transitioning into a more methodical hunter as he matured. By the time he hit his teenage years, he had become quite adept at working birds, being both efficient and thoughtful in his approach. He remained mobile and active until he was about 10 or 11, but by 12 years old, I started to notice a gradual slowdown.
In January 2020, I noticed Hunter limping, which had become somewhat typical for him. However, when we took him to the veterinarian in February, he underwent a series of tests, and the doctor expressed concern over a potential bone cancer diagnosis. While the chest scans came back clean, the leg x-rays showed abnormal bone growth. A subsequent biopsy revealed soft tissue sarcoma affecting the bone, and my heart sank; Hunter had been my loyal companion through thick and thin.
Faced with a difficult choice, the vet recommended amputation followed by potential chemotherapy. I received a lot of outside opinions since Hunter was 13 years old, and the costs could be substantial. However, we knew in our hearts that Hunter still had life left to live and had never asked for anything from us. After extensive discussion, we decided to proceed with the amputation.
Surprisingly, Hunter's recovery was swift; within a week, he was back to being his spirited self, adapting to life on three legs. We adjusted our hunting practices to accommodate his new way of moving. Now, we hunt for about two to three hours a day, deliberately choosing territories where he could hunt more efficiently, such as with woodcock where the birds tend to hold tight.
Living with a dog like Hunter has been a profound journey. I've learned that having a great bird dog means having one that may not be perfect, but is perfect for you. Hunter’s legacy will forever be in the life lessons he's imparted: the only limitations one has are those they perceive themselves to have. Hunter embraced life wholeheartedly after his amputation, never looking back.
As I reflect on our time together, knowing our final hunts may be close at hand, I cherish each moment spent in the field with him. He has taught me the essence of unconditional love, companionship, resilience, and how to face challenges head-on. The reality of our bond—the vulnerability and sorrow of a bird dog’s finite life—is not lost on me. As of now, Hunter is still my steadfast companion, enjoying his passion for upland hunting, and I believe he has a few more adventures left in him.
Keywords
Hunter, Vizsla, upland hunting, soft tissue sarcoma, amputation, unconditional love, companionship, resilience, life lessons.
FAQ
1. How old is Hunter?
Hunter is currently 13 years old.
2. What condition was Hunter diagnosed with?
Hunter was diagnosed with soft tissue sarcoma affecting his bone.
3. Did Hunter undergo any surgeries?
Yes, Hunter underwent amputation as part of his treatment.
4. How did Hunter adapt to life after amputation?
Hunter adapted quickly and was back to his energetic self within a week, learning to walk on three legs.
5. What type of hunting do Rich and Hunter primarily focus on?
Rich and Hunter primarily focus on upland hunting for woodcock, enabling a methodical and slower hunting approach suitable for Hunter's condition.