Dr. Joe Ehle talks about his best friend Herky, an 8-year-old golden retriever.
Ehle knew he wanted a dog for a companion and went to pick out a puppy from a breeder in South English, Iowa. He also knew he wanted a golden retriever.
“I’ve never met a golden retriever that wasn’t awesome,” Ehle said.
Having the first pick, when Ehle met with the puppies they all went the other direction except for one — Herky.
Best Friends is a weekly feature designed to highlight a local resident and his or her pets. To suggest someone for the series, contact Marissa Weiher, photographer, at photo@themonroetimes.com.
Describe Herky’s personality.
He’s outgoing and very social. He’s a stick-around dog. We don’t use a leash unless we have to because he likes to stay close. He likes all other dogs, even if they don’t like him. He’s got two pals next door he likes to play with, Mako and Louie. He’s named after the University of Iowa mascot. He’s been to every Iowa home football game since 2011. People know him when we’re tailgating.
What do you like to do together?
He likes to go hiking at the dog park outside Monroe and in Verona. We like to take him to the Wisconsin Brewing Company where he can run around with other dogs. He likes to hangout in the garden with us. We’re big gardeners. He enjoys stealing tomatoes, but not eating them.
What has it been like having Herky in your life?
He’s like a kid. He’s really part of the family. He goes on vacations with us. I can’t imagine life without him. When Ellen and I first started dating, I’m pretty sure she liked Herky as much as me.
