J&A's Wonderful Hunt Test Weekend

Things are finally opening again and the events we longed for last year have been taking place once again. This past weekend was CMBC’s hunt test, and it did not disappoint!  All our fun outdoor times in the field last year evolved unintentionally into preparation for this event, an event where our ATB extended family was well represented! (Click on name for photos)

NEW JUNIOR HUNTERS:

GINJA

J&A’s Golden Abundance of Life JH, NA Prize1 

Sire: J&A’s Apple Jack of Acton JH - Jack

Dam: J&A’s Carry the Dream of Acton JH, NA Prize1 – Holly

Loved, bred, handled, owned by John and Ann.

(She earned perfect 10's on Saturday with her overall average score a 9!)

FRANKLIN

J&A’s Country Boy’s Prayer JH 

Sire: J&A’s Keeper of the Stars of Acton SH – True

Dam: J&A’s Birch Spring Breaking New Ground JH, NA Prize1 – Toph

Bred by John and Ann Short

Loved, owned, handled by Jeff Patry.

It's been rewarding to see Jeff and Franklin become a great handling team.  Franklin, Revere's full brother and littermate, has had great success hunting grouse and woodcock in Rangeley Maine.

 

NEW Junior Hunter QUALIFIER (1/2 way there!)

REMI

J&A’s Treasured Autumn Dreams Remi 

Sire: Son-of-a-Gunn – Oly

Dam: J&A’s Carry the Dream of Acton JH, NA Prize1 – Holly

Bred by John and Ann Short

Loved, owned, handled by Steve & Charleen Parker

It has been a lot of fun to work with the Parkers and 7 month old Remi. She was Breezie in the Autumn's Treasures and has come a long way in a short time. 

 

 Master Hunter QUALIFIER (Almost there!)

EMMY SH 

^{(uncertain of actual registered name!)}

Sire: CH J&A’s Quiet Courage MH, NA Prize 1 - Wilson

Dam: Merrymeeting’s Morning Skye of Birch Spring SH, NA Prize 1 - Skye

Breeders: Walter Longley, Christine Longley

Loved, owned, handled by Dave Molyneaux.

What a joy to see to see this pretty two-year-old pup from New York again.  I saw her at 7 weeks old at the Longleys when John and I did her P.A.T. evals.  Reminding me not only of her sire Wilson, but of her grandmother who was Treasure, Emmy is closing in on her Master Title! 

 Honorable Mention

RUBY SH

J&A’s Rubies Are Heaven Sent SH - Ruby

Sire: J&A’s Soaring White Sequoia -Scooby

Dam: KJ’s Ramblin’ Molly Rose – Molly

Bred by: John and Ann

Loved, owned, handled by Roger & Marilyn Gilman

It was a wonderful surprise to see Ruby at the hunt test!  She had just had her birthday the day before. Already an AKC Senior Hunter, she is currently testing for her AKC Master Hunter.

There's one more young pup who has also come a long way with his owners. They had planned to participate in the hunt test last weekend but it didn't work out for that to happen. Wesson already has one bird season behind him, and will definitely have his day! 

Thanks to the 'rona, most dog events we enjoy were cancelled in 2020.  Ginja however did participate in a NAVHDA pre-test clinic followed by the actual NAVHDA test, where she earned her NAVHDA Natural Ability Title – NA 110 Prize 1.  Later in the year, Revere finished up his AKC Junior Hunter title at the same hunt test where Ginja earned her first two ‘legs’.  (The Central Maine Brittany Club aka CMBC cancelled their hunt test, dog show, and field trials as did many other specialty and breed clubs.) We were immensely proud of Ginja and Revere’s 2020 accomplishments!  We continued with field training throughout 2020 several times a week spring through fall and early winter. John did a little bird hunting in the fall. I was very content to remain at home raising “Autumn’s Treasures”! 

I will not belabor the point but by the time Mother's Day 2020 rolled around, I was fed up with the pandemic, self-quarantines, social distancing, mask mandates and more.  Unwilling to accept the situation as the ‘new normal’ I reclaimed my personal responsibility, set my mind on things above and began to look forward to what 2021 would bring with friends and family.  I was determined not to succumb to the oppression which tried to permeate all aspects of day-to-day life. It was bad enough that numerous personal situations broke my heart in 2020. But I digress! 

In closing, I just want to give a shout out to John who always remains as a valuable resource for our puppy people and our friends.  John understands the best path to a finished and happy Brittany gun dog. While remaining modest without pretense he knows this breed and particularly our line very well. He discerns how to bring the best out in them no matter their age or level of training, if any! John's methods utilize the 'slow but steady wins the race' approach. He has been referred to as a 'Brittany dog whisperer' but also has had success helping owners of English Setters, Gordon Setters, Pointers, even Field and Clumber Spaniels! John can recognize the precise timing of each level of training according to an individual dog's readiness. We are never in a hurry and do not encourage rushing through any process for any dog, no matter the age. Not a fan of harsh methods, John counts on praising the dogs to be the best motivator and always ending on a positive note where the dog succeeds in the task being asked of them.  Pleasing their owner is a Brittany's reason for living so that is not too hard to figure out!  John informally and naturally shares his years of experience with Brittanys with those who come to the field to run dogs with us. During the summer early mornings in the field are enjoyed on a regular basis. And yes, I occasionally rise at sunrise to join everyone! 

Perhaps the biggest takeaway here is to remember it takes time and there are no shortcuts on the road to a well-mannered, finished gundog for the walking upland game hunter! Again, the first year in our opinion should be about fun, developing teamwork, learning about and loving each other. A dog should be going through the paces with a happy demeanor without being mechanical. There is all the time in the world for a Brittany's obedience training beyond basic puppy manners. Here is to the summer of 2021 with our ATB family of all ages!

As always thanks for your interest in All Things Brittany! Take care and God bless you and yours always,  John, Ann, and our canine crew!

 

ATB - Speaking of Peeps!

 

“You know you got a one-of-a-kind gundog, when you grab your gun and vest and head to the front door and your dog is already waiting there with the keys to your truck.” Steve Reider

Spring truly has sprung here in Maine!  It was predicted to be in the 70's today which meant a much earlier start to our usual Saturday field work with the crew.  John is getting into a regular schedule now which means the dogs are enjoying at least three days during the week in addition to Saturday mornings.  It has really been nice getting a later start as we all know mornings can be a struggle for me.  From now on we will exercise/run/work the dogs before the heat of the day is felt.  By mid-summer this means starting as early as 6:30 a.m.!  (That's when John left the house today. I came to the field a couple of hours later with Revere.)

As I turned onto the dirt road leading into our training area this morning Revere, crated in the back, immediately recognized where we were and joyfully expressed in no uncertain terms his delight at being there.  Likewise, a couple of hours earlier at home, he had not so joyfully expressed his discontent at staying with me when John left.  Revere's registered name "Awaken The Dawn" has significance of varying levels.  Driving in and approaching the johnny house I was so happy to be greeted by several familiar ATB 'family' faces who had brought their Brittanys. Yay! 

One thing that has been constant over the past 16 years is understanding the importance for Brittanys to have frequent opportunities to run freely in an open area. Early on, we were really blessed to have use of wonderful fields less than 4 minutes down the road. It was so fun to meet with a few others and their dogs for a great morning of running dogs.  Not just Brittanys but English and Gordon Setters, Pointers, and others. Several years ago, those fields became unavailable to us and the search was on! Thanks to a good friend we were introduced to the owner of another property who has been just wonderful to us. It is worth the extra time it takes to travel there. I simply must get up early enough to go!  

Today the liver and white Brittanys and their owners rocked! They were in the majority. How wonderful to see little Remi for the first time since leaving last fall. For such a young puppy she is doing exceptionally well on her birds.  I loved seeing Franklin there this morning too. An outstanding grouse and woodcock dog he is full brother and littermate to my Revere.  It also was a joy to see Wesson today. He has really come so far and makes me smile.  One thing these owners all have in common is a commitment to consistent, ongoing training suitable for the age level of their dog.  The goal is to tap into the dog's inherent natural instincts, recognize and gently nurture them to eventually result in a skilled and effective gundog. To understand and learn to 'read' your dog takes time, practice, experience and a whole lot of birds! 

John enjoys setting new owners of gundogs up to succeed.  He does not train the dogs belonging to others but instead provides an opportunity to observe him working our own dogs. Offers support and guidance when they handle theirs. He works our dogs according to their specific and various skill levels. John knows each one is different and proceeds accordingly with them. Through the years he has been called a dog whisperer, or more specifically, a Brittany whisperer.  I do not think it is possible to explain it, it simply is.  I have seen my husband help develop confidence in people of their own abilities to train their own dog. Even folks previously frustrated with their gundogs, or who have never trained a bird dog before. Ultimately, they have reached a satisfying level of success for the next bird hunting season which is, as far as I am concerned. what it is all about. Simply said, the emphasis is on fun while kicking the obedience up a notch as needed. When it comes to the younger pups, John is cautious about giving them too much to do too soon. He keeps the skill list short for them, recognizing it is so easy to break the spirit of a Brittany. 

There is often an understandable tendency to try to do too much too soon. Especially when we know the potential that rests in that beautiful, intelligent being in front of us. But to a young pup what we call 'gundog training' is still just a game to them.  I remember a phone conversation I had with Frank Pride of Pride & Joy Brittanys about 20 years or so ago. I was asking what I should be doing with my 12-week-old puppy as far as training.  He basically told me "keep that first year all about fun. Go easy on the obedience. There is plenty of time for that. Let the pup learn about the birds on his own while providing the necessary guidance. Observe the pup's body when he is 'birdy' or has hit the scent cone." 

Tonight, is a perfect early spring evening here in Maine. It is approaching the midnight hour, the windows are still open and the sound of peepers singing 'cold feet, can't sleep' can be heard outside.  The sun is setting later and later. Earlier this evening the sound like that of a woodcock was heard but I cannot say for sure.  In the past we have been surprised to find them here and refer to them as resident woodcocks. This is the time of year where they will begin their mating ritual and if you'd like to read more about it this is a link to a great article called "Dances With Woodcock".  

Speaking of "PEEPS"!  I sure do love all of ours and enjoy the times we are together.  You know who you are, near and far, recent or otherwise. Our wonderful All Things Brittany 'family'.  We thank God you are in our lives. 

 

Take care and God bless, 

John, Ann, and our canine crew

ATB - Importance of Small Beginnings!

As we begin your 14^th trip around the sun, it is fun to recall the years we have already spent together.  I remember when you were born as if it was yesterday. You were the first born and alas! You were also the last and only puppy born.  Back then, we did not do ultrasound or x-rays such as is typical now, so it truly was a complete surprise that you were a singleton.  Your sire (CH Hills Blazen’ Jac JH) was also a singleton so we had the benefit of helpful tips from Hills Brittanys, in Coventry CT.  You were a little piggie because you had the dairy bar all to yourself.  From the beginning, you were a delightful challenge! No littermates meant no competitive nursing from your Chrissy (KJ Requet’s Bouncin’ Crysta). Your weight gain was rapid and because you had no littermates to play with or crawl over, you lacked opportunities for natural exercise.  We used to roll up towels, stuffed toys, and other methods to encourage you to crawl up and over them.  In addition to the deliberate stretching exercises for your legs that we had to do once a day you were gently hobbled to prevent your little legs from slipping beneath your weight. And believe me, the extra work all paid off and you were more than worth it.

One of my favorite puppy pictures of Pippin!

Your personality burst wide open to reveal a spunky spirit, full of sass yet abounding with affection! When you were finally up on your legs and moving well there was a clear bounce and spring to your step. Your movement was stunning even from an extremely young age, your gait near perfection. You made training for a natural free stack effortless for me! We went to handling classes and you quickly understood the game. As much fun as you were, at the time your show career began, I was diagnosed with severe osteoarthritis. I never completely gave up showing you though and when we were together in the ring I was so proud of my happy beautiful spunky Pippinator!  As you matured it was clear you would eventually finish your AKC Championship and with the help of so many others, you finished!

Pip you have always been so much fun in the field too. Just last week you showed once again that your hunting instincts and stylish points are not lacking. As your body desires to slow down now, take things at a much slower pace, your passion for zestful living is still at an all time high.

Bred twice, your amazing legacy will abide as it still passes down through each successive generation of your progeny. Your impressive heritage includes many show champions, a multitude of titled hunting dogs of both AKC and NAVHDA at various levels, and other accolades which will clearly continue to be improved upon.  We are blessed and appreciate knowing this is not only through our program but through the programs of other likeminded breeders recognizing the importance of the versatile, dual Brittany. As a singleton sweet Pip, you are a perfect example of never underestimating small beginnings on several levels. My hope is that you, my little ‘heartfelt legend’, will continue to be seen in many pedigrees yet to come! 

At 13, you are our next to the oldest Brittany here at All Things Brittany. (Scooby turns 14 next month and your son Hemi turns 10.)  Last year, your heart was broken along with mine when Treasure died. The two of you were inseparable from the very beginning.  I remember the many times when the song “My Girl” came on, dancing and singing with you and Treasure, being so silly.  And all those early morning trips to Dunkin Donuts together, the three of us having breakfast together at the water’s edge. I should apologize Pip, for not continuing that as much in 2020 but I will do better this year. Because after all, like Tigger – you’re the ‘only one’!

We will celebrate quietly today Pip-pip.  You will have belly rubs and snuggle times, and we will play a game or two of catch.  Your vision is cloudy, you have some lumps and bumps, a little arthritis but you are still and will forever more will remain a heartfelt legend.  Each day and every night begin and ends with your sweet little face next to mine. Your incessant, sometimes annoying pawing is something I will always yield to as you gently draw my hand towards you to kiss. 

I love you sweet girl, thank God for the joy of your life, and look forward to much more time together! Happy 13^th birthday Pippinator!