I was kind of hoping it was some sort of metaphor........That's what you share with us about your dad? When you shake your head, do you hear rattling sounds?
When I was young I did hear of some farmers throwing a bag of kittens in the river.......sure didn't happen at our house.
But I do remember my sister and I sitting by the river looking for bags.....I think I was 6 or so at the time....