I attended a Brittany club fun days training and met up with Lynn, Dominic, and Amanda Pettinato from the GSP Club of Northern Sacramento Valley to check out the field trial and conformation show process (thanks Phyllis for introducing me to Lynn).  They were extremely nice and introduced me to other GSP and Brittany owners.  I only planned on watching the events, but before I knew it I was entered in the puppy stake and puppy show.  Dominic showed me the way around the field and Koda saw/smelled her first planted birds.  She didn't point, but was excited when they were flushed.  Toward the end, she was so exhausted she laid down right next to the bird.  At the beginning, she didn't want to get splashed with water to cool down, but when we got back she laid down and rolled around in the water tub. Then Amanda showed me how to stack Koda, and we went into the show ring with just one other puppy JJ and Koda came in second, but got her first ribbon!  I learned a lot about the whole process and the laid back atmosphere (and good coaches) made me feel less intimidated about the process.  I hope to enter Koda in some hunt test and field trials in the near future, and I think she'll catch on quick.  I don't have any photos because I wanted to be focused on Koda, but I will try to get some next time.  Just thought I would share and welcome any tips for a beginner.

 I use a bright orange O-ring collar with a brass nameplate for hiking and hunting.  We also use the reversible orange/yellow slip on collars for hunt tests and field trials.  Sometimes if it is a GSP running with a very different dog like an English Setter the judges won't require the collar, but when two GSPs run together they do.  I got my reversible collars at Lion Country.

www.lcsupply.com/Product/Collars-Leads-Check-Cords/Reversible-Reflective-Neck-Bands.html

You will also need a starter pistol for both the Field Trial and Hunt Test.  You can get those at Lion Country as well.  I bought their brand and have had no problems with it.   Also, wear an orange hunting vest, but for Juniors I do not think the vest is required.  

 Here are some photos from the junior hunt test. 

Waiting patiently

Getting ready to go

Tired after all that hard work

Watching another GSP Gus fetch a bumper 

Not sure about swimming

And so begins the progressive disease. It's fatal you know - at least where your retirement fund is concerned .

Jean