Are you just starting field work with your retriever? Or are you hoping to try some Junior Hunter or Working Certificate tests in 2017? Do you want to start the process of turning your dog into a well groomed retriever for hunting? Well, perhaps this is the class for you.
When: Five sessions on Saturday afternoons, 1:00-4:00 (may finish earlier) Feb. 25, March 4, 11, 18, 25.
Where: Location TBA - various locations in the Comox Valley
Who: Sheila Kenny and Helper Coaches
What: Small groups. Dog/handler teams will work at their own level.
Cost: $85.00 per 5 week session (includes small group coaching, land use, birds and bumpers.)
A tentative plan is:
Group A: Green dogs and perhaps green handlers as well – just getting into the retrieving game. Introduction to the skills the dogs will need: awakening the retrieve desire, learning to having your dog “steady” (remain sitting) when the bumpers or birds are thrown, marking, obedience on leash and getting to the starting line, experience with birds and bumpers, working on the hold if needed.
Group B: These are dogs with some demonstrated desire and some experience in retrieving. We will focus on how to advance marking skills, familiarization with holding blinds and equipment, obedience getting to the start line, dog learning to be steady when birds or bumpers are thrown, appropriate returns to handlers, and giving handlers the skills/practice they need to advance their dogs.
Group C: These dogs will have a “fetch” and recall – and now we will work on advancing marking, adding some concepts, working in the presence of other dogs and noise, moving from holding blind to holding blind, remaining steady while birds are being thrown or when other dogs are working, general obedience and getting ready for those first hunt tests or WC.
Groups will be flexible – make-up of groups will shift as needed so that dog/handlers teams get the practice that works for their level. Groups may be combined to meet needs. Flexibility and individualization will be the focus.
If you have any questions, please contact Sheila Kenny at: sheila2sams@shaw.ca
To register for these classes, please see attached form.
http://members.shaw.ca/UIRC/Flyer.pdf