I was invited to take Autumn to experience her first live bird hunt today. We were invited by Robin and Dale at Little Georgetown farm in Broad Run Virginia. Autumn did a great job for her first time out. She was a little confused at first but quickly chased down a Rooster that was shot. When she picked up the semi alive bird she started parading around with it like a prize. After some coaxing she finally handed it over.
Later in the day she flushed and grabbed a Pheasant out of mid air. Finally she went after a flushed Quail. Unfortunately for me the quail dodged my shot and got away.
Today made me realize that training at home only can go so far with her performance in the field. I had high expectations that she would do everything like she does at home. Boy was I wrong.
Overall she did well for being 8 months old. She did follow whistle commands, was never startled by my Benelli going off, stayed close, flushed and retrieved, and interfaced well with the other dog in the field, a Britanny Spaniel. I realized that we need to work with more basics of come, sit and stay. I am very proud of her....we have a lot of work a head of us.
1 comment:
Dear Mr. Virginia Pheasant Hunter,
I had the pleasure of reading your blog. The fact that Autumn did so well is really encouraging since I have not had Cooper under the gun yet. I now have the opportunity to have faith in my dog through the abilities of yours. Looks like you had a great time. Beautiful
dog, beautiful country. Steve, this was a treat to read.
Your friend in Minnesota, Craig Hanson
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