In a recent column, I told the story of an orphan duckling, Duck-Duck, who was raised by our golden retriever, Russet. Duck-Duck flourished in our family room under the watchful care and protection of this great big dog who chose to love and nurture this quacking, flapping bundle rather than to prey and devour.
With Russet’s help, Duck-Duck grew into a beautiful adult. But it eventually became apparent that it was time for her to live outdoors.
When we opened the back door, gently carried her outdoors and put her down in the freshly mown grass, Duck-Duck seemed mesmerized by the multitude of sights and sounds. Russet was with her every step of the way…