Autumn Breeze Newsletter
January 2010
Another year has come and gone, hunting season is behind us and the Holidays are over. It is time to review the past year and look ahead to 2011.
2010 was another exciting and memorable year at Autumn Breeze Kennel. Although I didn't have a full time trainer working with me last year, Tom Healy from Whitefish MT and Swift Creek Griffons spent some extended time with me last summer on two different occasions assisting me with training. That was a huge help, as I was very busy during those times.
The MN chapter of the Versatile Hunting Dog Federation held a hunt test September 25-26 at ABK. The testing was well received and the participants had two very good days. I've received many good reports on the quality of the dog work here at ABK. The test results can be seen at the VHDF website. Of course, some companions were wondering why they did not get more retrieves from all of their hard efforts. I believe the answer to that is that the best test for our hunting companions is actual bird hunting!
I also hosted Spinone Week Minnesota in June. That was well attended and included special guest Lindsay Belcher (Spinone owner) from Ireland. Many other clients traveled here for a week of private sessions at ABK.
The partnership with Studio 2300 Photography by Ted Wentink has been very successful. We look forward to photographing the dogs that train with us in 2011.
Tony Nickles of Dakota Web Creations has again been doing an outstanding job on keeping my web site functioning and updated. Doug Sangl, owner of Ruff Tough Kennels has made some improvements in his outstanding dog crate. I have 10 of them that have had extensive use and have held up beyond expectations. Please check these out if you are in need of a new crate.
I will be having a litter of pups in the spring. All of the info is listed on the web site under "PUPPIES". If you or anyone you know is interested, please have them contact me. I do require a deposit to reserve a pup. I currently have several deposits, so don't wait too long to decide you need a new hunting companion!
Please plan ahead for training and schedule early. Last year I filled up for the entire season by June. Reserving your spot early allows me to better coordinate with your busy schedules.
The winter months are a good time to clean up retrieving and obedience issues. By doing so, you can have the spring and summer to keep your hunting companion tuned up and ready for testing or for your next hunting adventure.
If you need boarding I can accommodate that as well. Appointment times need to be scheduled in advance. ABK is open daily; however Sundays are reserved for my personal time.
As I look back on 2010, I share many fond memories with each of you and marvel at our accomplishments. Only the anticipation of new and renewed relationships can outweigh those memories. My sincerest thanks to you for everything past, present, and future. I look forward to seeing you and your well-trained companions on the ponds and in the fields in 2011!
Sincerely,
