This is Chris – owner of Whistling Wings – and an old friend dating back to our high school days. I ask him the other day to send me some info about his business – and what it means to him. I didn’t hear back from him the next day as expected – then – that next day he texted me the following.

“Sorry I hadn’t gotten back to you but I had a sad day yesterday. I had to bury one of my original employees. My lil’ Boykin spaniel, Rosie, died of – I’m guessing old age. She had become deaf and just didn’t have that fire anymore. I’d seen it for some time and just couldn’t comprehend her not being her spunky self. So Wednesday afternoon I witnessed her point, flush, & retrieve her last quail. Wish they could live forever. If heaven doesn’t have dogs I’m not so sure I want to go. Anyway sorry for my sappiness. There are quite a few people I owe a debt of gratitude to for helping me get started – from family to friends – I can not thank enough. Quail huntin’ & birddogs are such a passion and love of mine – I would still do it for my own enjoyment if my phone never rang again. These amazing dogs I’ve followed throughout the fall & winter seasons have introduced myself to some wonderful people that I call friends & family now. I wouldn’t change anything for those experiences. Here’s a cool quote in a book I’ve read numerous times that pretty much sums it up ‘I don’t know whether the legend is true, but I do know that certain dogs are shameless poachers. They’ll steal your favorite chair, your wife’s affections, your lunch, and your heart.'” -Chris Tippette

That pretty well covers who he is, what he does, and why he loves doing it. Doesn’t it?

I love dogs, too. Rest In Peace, Rosie.