Very sorry to hear that. Had a very similar situation with one of my Chessies last Oct. Shot about 8 rabbits in the yard since then. My son took it pretty hard. He's only 3 and keeps asking when we will get a new one. I still have a great female and have been half-heartedly looking for a new pup. Like johnch said you can't replace scout just like I can't replace rooster. I feel your pain and hope the next pup is a crackerjack... sounds like scout was.