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L.R. Alexander from Missouri and I were promoting
cattle dogs back when cattle dogs weren't cool. As a side, L.R. had a duck
show. I was normally involved, usually carrying their stinkin’ crate. I
watched L.R. put on several shows and got to noticing that it really
helped put a polish on those tough old cattle dogs.
I
didn't realize there were different duck breeds. I bought 5 Muscovies
because they were cheap. They are probably the worst, worst ducks you can
use. I got them home and sort of worked them. I had an older female that
was really a good cattle dog, but she hated those ducks. She would lay her
ears back and squint her eyes when working them.
One
night, after about a week, they escaped. They were making their way to the
pond when I saw them. I sent "Spot" and she intercepted all but
one. This one paddled around the pond, easily out maneuvering the dog. I
got "annoyed" and tried to get Spot to grab it and kill it. No
duck was going to make a fool out of my dog. That didn't work either.
I
scoped the situation out. I put in a small flat bottom aluminum boat and
made myself a lariat out of some clothesline. I'd paddle to where he was,
but when I got up to rope he just dived (dove) under. He would come up,
usually 10 feet behind the boat or somewhere where you weren't expecting
him. I got to throwing the paddle at him. My wife and kids were there by
then so I had to quit throwing such a fit.
I
decided they could help. I had them wade out and put their hands on the
back of the little boat. I would stand up and they could give me a shove
toward the duck. I would already be swinging my loop. When I said
"go", they pushed the boat. I fell backwards over the middle
seat cracking my head on the back of the boat........ I opened one
eye......... They were all standing there trying to look serious. My help
made a hasty retreat back to the house, as I got up grabbing for the
paddle again, cussing L.R., Muscovies, and ducks in general.
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