Wilma Talbot Rebstock

Bloodhounds of The Bitterroot Wilma Talbot Rebstock

This is the story of Old Joy, a trail worn bloodhound, and his master, George Talbot, a man of the mountains. George always knew that panic was the cause of many untimely deaths in the wilderness. Even men well versed in the wilds, when fueled by fear, cold or alcohol, lost their minds before losing their lives. When a four-year-old lost his life to the elements in the Sapphire ranges, George knew bloodhounds were long overdue in the Bitterroot Valley. Over the ensuing years George and Joy answered some 600 calls, giving hope to those who had lost their way and putting fear into outlaws who did not want to be found. The Montana Sheriff's and Peace Officers Association sponsored the bloodhound team and they were based at Montana State Prison at Deer Lodge. Old Joy and George received national acclaim when featured in the October 14, 1957 issue of The Saturday Evening Post in an article entitled "Mantrackers of the Rockies".