J & A's Brittanys: Grampa's Training Assistants

(Note: Before playing, pause embedded Play List.)

An enjoyable visit from two of our grandchildren over their school vacation resulted in a fun time out in the field with some of the ATB crew! Callum and Alana had fun practicing training techniques that "Grampa" uses with our Brittanys. Each dog is at a different stage in their training so we were able to really let the kids take an active role, who also have a Brittany of their own. Times like this are so important to us although they are rare indeed. Not only do they strengthen very special relationships and weave memories for all of us, but serve also to pass on what we believe to be an important legacy for our family. Two of our older grandchildren, Brook and Nova, have also done a lot of field training with us and in fact participated in a youth field trial with the Central Maine Brittany Club in 2011. John and I enjoy sharing videos like this that involve our family, not only for the fun and entertaining part of it, but because it also provides a way for us to review what each of the Brittanys does at various stages. Speaking of which, we've noticed lately that when running Molly she seems to have a slight loss of hearing as well as diminished eye sight. It doesn't matter to her though - she will go out and run around, looking pretty, perform according to the 'script' then come bounding back to us for praise and approval - which of course is always awaiting each of our dogs. Although not obvious in the video, I am actively involved with the training on a regular basis - that is when I'm not trying to capture the activity on video. I like to mention the training we do here is not for competitive purposes. It has more to do with keeping the instincts alive and well within our breeding program, and everything to do with enjoying our Brittanys for their original purpose. In other words, there's no hype here and as an artisan friend of ours likes to say about her own work: we do what we love and love what we do. With pups hopefully coming in April - you can bet we're going to go into the field with their relatives to demonstrate what their potential is. But the most important thing of all is always - the love of the dog both given and received... and this has been a winter to give, love, and receive abundantly!
God bless you always, John, Ann and All Things Brittany.