On a recent walk, Orly and I had an unexpected encounter. We have a ‘usual’ morning route (with several variations). On this particular chilly gray morning, we did not detour.

At a corner, I noticed a bag. Missoulians have a habit of placing unwanted things on the corner, in the grassy area that belongs to the city, with a sign indicating that these ‘treasures’ are free. Usually, it’s just trash that they are too lazy to toss in the trash or take to the dump, but not this time:

Of course, we had to investigate. When I looked inside, imagine my surprise when a near-perfect hedgehog toy peered back! Ever since living with Labrador roommate Maverick, I have known that hedgehogs are the Premier dog toy, especially the ones that grunt (rather than squeaking). Alas, this hedgehog, clad in a superhero cape, is mute.

Orly excitedly took hold of Super Hedgie and wagged her tail enthusiastically. OK, this one is going home with us.

She led onward, tail high, a spring in her step.

Orly carried her new toy for the rest of our walk (about a half hour), never stopping to sniff, pee, or bark — no matter what another dog said to her. She ignored squirrels and deer alike. Only once safely home did she agree to relinquish Super Hedgie so he could have his portrait taken.

Hedgie is now one of her favorites — and among the select few toys employed when greeting guests. The guest-welcome ritual, invented by Jana and handed down by Cali to both Orly and Dotty, requires that the golden retriever greet entering guests at the door, then:

• Rush off to find a favorite toy
• Return to show the toy to the guest
• Do a little welcome dance (this element was added by Cali)
• Allow the guest to pet the golden (but never, ever to take the toy).

We’ve gone on many walks since then, and, though Orly has been on the lookout for more treasures, Finding Super Hedgie was a once-in-a-lifetime miracle. Though she did find part of an ice-cream cone a few days ago (the delicious homemade waffle kind from the Big Dipper).