02/27/2025
In Loving Memory of Emma
Yesterday, we said goodbye to our beloved dog, Emma. Our hearts hurt deeply, as she was not just a pet; she was a cherished member of our family here at Teton River Retrievers. Emma was the kind of dog that made me look good as a trainer.
When I first brought her home, she was completely out of control—an ex-kennel dog adopted from a homeowner facing financial difficulties. After three months of training, I was on the verge of giving up. Her behavior was challenging, and she struggled to make progress. However, I sought advice from another trainer, and we decided to approach her training as if she were a puppy starting anew, even though she was almost 1½ years old at that time.
With patience and perseverance, we returned to the basics. Our hard work paid off, and Emma’s transformation was nothing short of incredible. She evolved from a dog that would nip at people and other dogs into one of the most phenomenal retrievers we have ever seen. She could cast at any angle, hunt closely, and retrieve with remarkable skill. On top of that, she was the sweetest, softest dog you could find. Her nicknames included "Sneezy" and sometimes "Doby," like the character from Harry Potter.
Emma had her quirks, too. If you left the house in camo or with a gun, you better take her along, or she would throw a tantrum! She was the best dog in the world—until you left her home alone, knowing she wasn’t going hunting. She was an absolute blast to play with, always honoring other dogs and loving nothing more than playing with the kids. She was incredibly respectful and listened attentively, even to the smaller children. It was a joy to watch her sit, stay, heel, and even honor other dogs on command from a six-year-old. The kids adored her, and their laughter filled our home when they played together.
But Emma was more than just an outstanding retriever; she was a source of joy and comfort. Her playful spirit and loving nature brought endless happiness to our lives. Whether she was bounding through the fields or curling up beside us at the end of a long day, Emma had a way of making every moment feel special. Her wagging tail and bright eyes could lift our spirits even on the toughest days. At the ranch, after long days of hunting, she was always the talk of the table.
Yesterday was an incredibly difficult day for all of us, and our hearts ache with the loss of this extraordinary girl. We loved her with all our hearts, and her legacy will live on in the hearts of everyone she touched. We will forever cherish the joy, laughter, and unconditional love she brought into our lives.
Rest well, Emma. You will be dearly missed, but your spirit will always remain with us. We love you, girl!!