Chocolate Chops He looks at me with loving tiger eyes as he rubs his chin across the gravel - his alternative to shaving we joke - he is old and gained a grey chin throughout is fun filled years. The word 'lead' resonates in his sensitive ears and the tail wags furiously. Panting and puffing across the fields, sniffing out every delicious scent he can find. He shakes the water from his oily coat after swimming for sticks and stones. With a satisfying wiggle, we continue our trot. As we arrive home, a gallon of water later and several 'thank you' licks, his cosy bed awaits. With his squeaky pheasant tucked under his chin, dreams of the chase, the water and the outdoors commence. Pain is not an issue when this one is around as he lays his soft head across the discomfort. Tears are licked away as he cautiously approaches and gives wordless comfort that no person could provide. Therapy comes in the form of stroking his soft chocolate ears, who needs a councillor?! I sometimes wish I could read his mind but I fear the special moments we share would be scarred. There is nothing better than animal affection- especially if it comes in the form of a chocolate Labrador named Briar. Unforgettable, irreplaceable and touchingly loveable.