Charlie was born in 2000 to Tosca and Buster. His father and his grandfather Bo raised him during his first few years. Unfortunately Bo and Buster passed away in 2002 and 2003. Charlie had big shoes to fill. Perhaps he shouldered too much responsibility and that is why he took frequent breaks from the ranch.
He was a very loving dog that enjoyed being with our guests and even spending the night with them. Charlie began his life of wandering during a rain storm one winter about 7 or 8 years ago. He was scared by the thunder and lightning and ran up Chiles Valley Road and ended up at a neighbor's home about three miles away. The family fell in love with Charlie and soon he was sleeping on their bed. They didn't know where he came from, but they eventually found out and brought him back. A few days later he returned to their home.
Over time he got to know all of our neighbors in Chiles Valley as well as all of the irrigation ponds and other watering holes. He loved Rustridge but he needed more room to roam. Neighbors would call and let us know he was visiting them and we would go pick him up. He enjoyed hanging out at their homes and visiting with them and their pets. Other times neighbors would see him running down the road and would bring him home.
Four years ago he wandered down the road and got picked up by a stranger. We finally got him back after 10 days of agony. He spent those ten days on Prichard Hill with a lovely view of Lake Hennessey.
He wore a collar with a name tag for years after that. The last time he wandered, (last winter) he ended up at the animal shelter (we had taken off his collar, because we thought his roaming days were over). After that he never wandered farther than the next ranch. Charlie was put to rest yesterday evening. He lived a wonderful and full life and enjoyed his final harvest with us. Charlie leaves behind Holly and nine children: Rusty, Ridge, Bishop, Bella, Annie, Scout, Ambur, Gracie and Cali. |
