Explore every episode of the podcast The Accidental Bird Dog Podcast
| Title | Pub. Date | Duration | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Dealing with Failure | 28 Aug 2024 | 00:34:26 | |
If you're participate in hunting events long enough with your bird dog, "failure" is inevitable – meaning, not passing a test, earning a placement, or failing to meet your expectations. In this episode, I talk about some failures I've experienced and how I dealt with them. Realizing how to learn from failure and using it to make you and your dog better is important. Hopefully this episode will provide some useful tips for the next time you're dealing with some disappointment after competing with your dog. The Accidental Bird Dog Podcast is sponsored by OnX Hunt and Boss Shotshells. We are part of the HerUpland Podcast Network. | |||
| The Versatile Hunting Dog Federation: Test Details | 14 Aug 2024 | 01:10:55 | |
This episode is part 2 going into detail about the Versatile Hunting Dog Federation (VHDF). Kyle Hough chats with me about the three levels of testing and what is required at each level. While the tests have similarities to the NAVHDA and JGHV systems, there are distinct differences. You can contact Kyle through the Northeast chapter of the VHDF. Visit https://northeastvhdf.wildapricot.org/ The Accidental Bird Dog Podcast is sponsored by OnX Hunt and Boss Shotshells. We are part of the HerUpland Podcast Network. You can find me on the following platforms: | |||
| Transitioning Between Events | 10 Apr 2024 | 00:30:28 | |
In this episode, I talk about running multiple kinds of events with your pointing dog. Some people say you can't run a field trial dog in hunt tests or NAVHDA and vice versa, but that's not always true. If you're going to transition between different types of events, what are some considerations to think about in training? How do you keep the rules straight? The Accidental Bird Dog Podcast is sponsored by OnX Hunt, Boss Shotshells, and Toyota. We are part of the HerUpland Podcast Network. You can find me on the following platforms: | |||
| JGHV Testing: The VGP Test | 27 Mar 2024 | 01:12:51 | |
This is the final part of a three-part series discussing the Jagdgebrauchshundverband (JGHV) testing system. I interviewed Cortney Schaefer about the VGP test, which is the finished versatile hunting dog test. This is a two-day test that encompasses 20+ test subjects and is typically run by dogs between 18 and 36 months of age. Cortney has been a JGHV judge since 2013 and currently owns and breeds Deutsch Drahthaars. | |||
| JGHV Testing: The HZP Test | 13 Mar 2024 | 01:04:12 | |
This is part two of a three-part series discussing the Jagdgebrauchshundverband (JGHV) testing system. I interviewed Tanya Gates about the HZP test, which is the fall advanced natural ability test intended for dogs approximately 10 to 24 months. The HZP involves more training than the VJP but is not quite as involved as the finished dog VGP test. Tanya has an interesting perspective since she owns a breed that is less commonly seen in JGHV testing (Hungarian Wirehaired Vizslas). She's also participated in the HZP in the U.S., Canada, and Europe. You can reach Tanya on Facebook, Instagram, or via her website. The Accidental Bird Dog Podcast is sponsored by OnX Hunt, Boss Shotshells, and Toyota. We are part of the HerUpland Podcast Network. You can find me on the following platforms: | |||
| JGHV Testing: The VJP Test | 28 Feb 2024 | 00:48:23 | |
This episode kicks off a three-part series diving into the Jagdgebrauchshundverband (JGHV) testing system, which is often referred to as the "German testing" system in the U.S. I interviewed Jennifer Wapenski about the VJP test, which is the lowest level intended for puppies approximately 6 to 18 months. We discussed the different components of the test as well as some tips to have a successful test day. You can reach Jennifer by email, on Instagram, or via her website. The Accidental Bird Dog Podcast is sponsored by OnX Hunt, Boss Shotshells, and Toyota. We are part of the HerUpland Podcast Network. You can find me on the following platforms: | |||
| Handling Dogs in Test and Trials: Use a Pro or Handle Yourself? | 14 Feb 2024 | 00:52:16 | |
This week, I had a conversation with Jeremy Cormier of V3 Gun Dogs & Canine Academy in Lebanon, CT. Jeremy is a professional trainer who trains and runs bird dogs in hunt tests and field trials. We discussed the differences between handling your dog yourself or using a professional. Both can be a good option depending on your experience, the time you have, and your goals. Check out Jeremy and V3 Gun Dogs on Instagram, Facebook, and YouTube! The Accidental Bird Dog Podcast is sponsored by OnX Hunt, Boss Shotshells, and Toyota. We are part of the HerUpland Podcast Network. You can find me on the following platforms: | |||
| Field Trial Recap: The Good, the Bad, and the Crazy! | 31 Jan 2024 | 00:35:26 | |
Recently, I attended an AKC field trial with my vizsla, Zara. In this episode, I go into detail about each of her runs so you can get a sense of the variety of situations that can happen when you are running your dog and how your decision-making can impact the outcome. There were good things, bad things, and thankfully, no ugly things – but a crazy situation with a bird I haven't seen before. The Accidental Bird Dog Podcast is sponsored by OnX Hunt, Boss Shotshells, and Toyota. We are part of the HerUpland Podcast Network. You can find me on the following platforms: | |||
| Amateur Field Trial Clubs of America (AFTCA) Field Trials: Part 2 | 17 Jan 2024 | 00:24:14 | |
This episode continues my conversation with Laura Miller about AFTCA field trials. We cover how to earn titles, the community aspect of the trials, and technicalities involving relocating a dog on point and retrieving. You can reach out to Laura on Facebook through her CH Lundy's Red Bull for American Field Hall of Fame page. For more information on the AFTCA guidelines, check out the Standards to Field Trial Procedure, Judicial Practice, Handler and Bird Dog Performance. The Accidental Bird Dog Podcast is sponsored by OnX Hunt, Boss Shotshells, and Toyota. We are part of the HerUpland Podcast Network. You can find me on the following platforms: | |||
| Amateur Field Trial Clubs of America (AFTCA) Field Trials: Part 1 | 03 Jan 2024 | 00:33:58 | |
This episode covers AFTCA field trials, which are the amateur side of American Field (now owned by United Kennel Club). This is part one of my conversation with Laura Miller, an accomplished field trial competitor and judge. We discuss the different levels including Puppy, Derby, Shooting Dog, and All-Age and some key differences from AKC trials. You can reach out to Laura on Facebook through her CH Lundy's Red Bull for American Field Hall of Fame page. For more information on the AFTCA guidelines, check out the Standards to Field Trial Procedure, Judicial Practice, Handler and Bird Dog Performance. The Accidental Bird Dog Podcast is sponsored by OnX Hunt, Boss Shotshells, and Toyota. We are part of the HerUpland Podcast Network. You can find me on the following platforms: | |||
| End of the Year Episode: Listener Questions! | 20 Dec 2023 | 00:46:08 | |
I'm doing someting a little different for my last episode of 2023. I collected questions from listeners and I'm answering them in this episode. How do I go about training backing? What are some things you can do to help your dog in a hunt test? Will I be getting another bird dog in the future? All of these are answered, and more! The Accidental Bird Dog Podcast is sponsored by OnX Hunt, Boss Shotshells, and Toyota. We are part of the HerUpland Podcast Network. You can find me on the following platforms: | |||
| The Hunt Test/Field Trial Lifestyle | 06 Dec 2023 | 00:30:24 | |
This week I'm discussing what it's like when you spend a season or several months of the year testing or trialing. How much travel is involved? What are the costs? What does a typical day look like at an event? The Accidental Bird Dog Podcast is sponsored by OnX Hunt, Boss Shotshells, and Toyota. We are part of the HerUpland Podcast Network. You can find me on the following platforms: | |||
| The Versatile Hunting Dog Federation Overview | 31 Jul 2024 | 01:03:20 | |
Jeff Funke joins me to discuss the VHDF, an organization that was founded in 2007 with the intention to take the best parts of existing testing systems and make a series of tests that really reflected the versatile hunting dog in North America. The VHDF's scoring system allows for a lot of nuance and is able to highlight exceptional dogs, which is a plus for breeders who are trying to breed better hunting dogs. You can contact Jeff via email jfunke3dk@gmail.com. For more information about the VHDF, visit https://versatilehuntingdogfederation.wildapricot.org. The Accidental Bird Dog Podcast is sponsored by OnX Hunt and Boss Shotshells. We are part of the HerUpland Podcast Network. You can find me on the following platforms: | |||
| National Bird Dog Events | 22 Nov 2023 | 00:26:05 | |
This episode dives into bird dog events on a national scale, such as the NAVHDA Invitational and the many national field trials. I discuss how they are different than local events and some considerations to think about if you want to enter one of them. The Accidental Bird Dog Podcast is sponsored by OnX Hunt, Boss Shotshells, and Toyota. We are part of the HerUpland Podcast Network. You can find me on the following platforms: | |||
| NSTRA Field Trials | 08 Nov 2023 | 00:59:32 | |
This episode explains National Shoot to Retrieve Association (NSTRA) field trials. I interviewed Matthew Bass, a NSTRA judge and owner of Stacked Up Kennels, who has been involved in the NSTRA world since he was young child. We discuss how NSTRA trials are set up, how they are scored, and what your dog needs to do to earn a placement. The Accidental Bird Dog Podcast is sponsored by OnX Hunt, Boss Shotshells, and Toyota. We are part of the HerUpland family of podcasts. You can find me on the following platforms: | |||
| The AKC Master Hunter Excellent Test | 25 Oct 2023 | 00:58:31 | |
In this episode, I interview Doug Ljungren, the Executive Vice President of Sports and Events at AKC. Doug and I talk about a brand-new event called the Master Hunter Excellent Test (MHX). This standards-based test is open to dogs who already have their Master Hunter titles. The rules and judging categories are a little different than the MH test and more emphasis is placed on the hunting ability of the dog. This test is open for entry until October 26, 2023 at 8PM EST. If you'd like to enter, here is the link to the premium as well as the direct link to the entry form. The Accidental Bird Dog Podcast is sponsored by OnX Hunt, Boss Shotshells, and Toyota. We are part of the HerUpland family of podcasts. You can find me on the following platforms: | |||
| Sourcing Live Birds and Ducks for Dog Training | 18 Oct 2023 | 00:25:37 | |
Finding live upland birds as well as ducks can be a challenge, especially if bird growers in your area don't raise them year round. I discuss some alternatives to find birds for training, as well as some options if you aren't able to store birds long-term where you live. The Accidental Bird Dog Podcast is sponsored by OnX Hunt, Boss Shotshells, and Toyota. We are part of the HerUpland family of podcasts. You can find me on the following platforms: | |||
| How to Find a Place to Train Your Bird Dog | 27 Sep 2023 | 00:23:31 | |
Are you struggling to find a place to train your bird dog for hunting? It can be hard to find a suitable place. Before I got involved in NAVHDA in 2017, I spent a solid year trying to find a place to train Zara for hunting. This involved copious internet searches, Facebook messages, some emails, a few phone calls, and some site visits. It took me two more years to find a place I could access more frequently than once a month. This episode discusses various options to check out when looking for a place to train. The Accidental Bird Dog Podcast is sponsored by OnX Hunt, Boss Shotshells, and Toyota. We are part of the HerUpland family of podcasts. You can find me on the following platforms: | |||
| The Intermediate/Advanced Level – What is Needed to Reach It? | 13 Sep 2023 | 00:26:47 | |
This episode is not about one specific organization. Instead, I discuss the differences between the beginner/puppy level events and the intermediate/advanced levels. I go into the main components that you need to work on in order to be successful at the upper levels. The Accidental Bird Dog Podcast is sponsored by OnX Hunt, Boss Shotshells, and Toyota! We are part of the HerUpland family of podcasts. You can find me on the following platforms: | |||
| UKC Field Trials: Gun and Open Classes | 30 Aug 2023 | 00:42:53 | |
This is part two of my conversation with Grayson Guyer about United Kennel Club (UKC) field trials. In this episode, we get into the details about the Gun and Open classes: how they are judged, what titles you can earn, and the differences between the two. To get in contact with Grayson, visit his website or check him out on Instagram. He also hosts his own podcast, the Companion Gun Dog podcast. The Accidental Bird Dog Podcast is sponsored by OnX Hunt and Boss Shotshells. Our newest sponsor is Toyota! We are part of the HerUpland family of podcasts. You can find me on the following platforms: | |||
| UKC Field Trials: Overview, TAN & WRT | 16 Aug 2023 | 00:19:26 | |
This episode features my first guest: Grayson Guyer, an experienced bird dog trainer who runs Lost Highway Kennels. Grayson and I discuss United Kennel Club (UKC) field trials and he provides some history about the beginning of the program. We also get into the Natural Ability (TAN) and Water Retrieve (WRT) tests. To get in contact with Grayson, visit his website or check him out on Instagram. He also hosts his own podcast, the Companion Gun Dog podcast. The Accidental Bird Dog Podcast is sponsored by OnX Hunt and Boss Shotshells. Our newest sponsor is Toyota! We are part of the HerUpland family of podcasts. You can find me on the following platforms: | |||
| Tips for the NAVHDA Invitational | 02 Aug 2023 | 00:32:12 | |
This episode details ways to help you prepare for the NAVHDA Invitational and set you and your dog up for success. I discuss tips for the field and water sections as well as mentally preparing for this big event! The Accidental Bird Dog Podcast is sponsored by OnX Hunt and Boss Shotshells. We are part of the HerUpland family of podcasts. You can find me on the following platforms: | |||
| The NAVHDA Invitational Test Overview | 19 Jul 2023 | 00:27:43 | |
This episode goes into detail about the North American Versatile Hunting Dog Association's (NAVHDA) Invitational test, which is NAVHDA's highest level of hunt test. It's held once a year at various locations around the country. In this episode, I discuss the various parts of the test. The Accidental Bird Dog Podcast is sponsored by OnX Hunt and Boss Shotshells. We are part of the HerUpland family of podcasts. You can find me on the following platforms: | |||
| Weimaraner Club of America Shooting Ratings Tests | 17 Jul 2024 | 00:37:16 | |
Gretchen Stephenson joins me again to talk about the Shooting Ratings tests for Weimaraners. These field events were developed in the 1950s as a way to objectively evaluate the hunting skills of Weimaraners and are put on by the Weimaraner Club of America. AKC's hunting tests for all pointing breeds were actually based on these tests! There are distinct differences, however, which we discuss. You can get in touch with Gretchen on Facebook, via email at gretchen.stephenson@gmail.com or view her website at caninemannersandmore.com. The Accidental Bird Dog Podcast is sponsored by OnX Hunt, Boss Shotshells, and Toyota. We are part of the HerUpland Podcast Network. You can find me on the following platforms: | |||
| The NAVHDA Utility & Utility Preparatory Tests | 05 Jul 2023 | 00:34:46 | |
This episode goes into detail about the North American Versatile Hunting Dog Association's (NAVHDA) Utility test, which is a comprehensive test to evaluate finished versatile dogs. I cover the different parts of the test, how the scoring system works, and some tips to help you and your dog have the best experience possible. I also talk about the Utility Preparatory test, which is a scaled down version of the Utility test, and how it differs. The Accidental Bird Dog Podcast is sponsored by OnX Hunt and Boss Shotshells. We are part of the HerUpland family of podcasts. You can find me on the following platforms: | |||
| The NAVHDA Natural Ability Test Overview & Tips | 21 Jun 2023 | 00:29:51 | |
This episode goes into detail about the North American Versatile Hunting Dog Association's (NAVHDA) Natural Ability test, which is intended for dogs up to 16 months of age. I cover the different parts of the test, how the scoring system works, and some tips to help you and your dog have the best experience possible. The Accidental Bird Dog Podcast is sponsored by OnX Hunt and Boss Shotshells. We are part of the HerUpland family of podcasts. You can find me on the following platforms: | |||
| AKC Hunt Tests vs. Field Trials | 07 Jun 2023 | 00:25:34 | |
When people talk about AKC hunt tests vs. field trials, it seems like the main distinction they emphasize is that hunt tests are judged against a standard, whereas field trials are competitive, and the dogs compete against one another. And that is a big difference. But there are many subtle differences that can have a big impact on your training. I discuss those differences and similarities in this episode. The Accidental Bird Dog Podcast is sponsored by OnX Hunt and Boss Shotshells. We are part of the HerUpland family of podcasts. You can find me on the following platforms: | |||
| Tips for AKC Field Trials | 24 May 2023 | 00:33:45 | |
I discuss some tips for how to be successful in AKC field trials. This includes training for different weather conditions, decisions on when to relocate your dog, and advice for walking in horseback stakes. The Accidental Bird Dog Podcast is sponsored by OnX Hunt and Boss Shotshells. We are part of the HerUpland family of podcasts. You can find me on the following platforms: | |||
| AKC Field Trials: Puppy, Derby, Gun Dog, and All-Age Stakes | 10 May 2023 | 00:40:29 | |
This episode explains the four main types of stakes in American Kennel Club (AKC) field trials. I discuss what goes on in each stake, what the judges are looking for, mistakes that will get your dog picked up, and the differences between puppy, derby, gun dog, and all-age stakes. The Accidental Bird Dog Podcast is sponsored by OnX Hunt and Boss Shotshells. We are part of the HerUpland family of podcasts. You can find me on the following platforms: | |||
| An Overview of AKC Field Trials | 26 Apr 2023 | 00:28:43 | |
I discuss the rules and structure behind American Kennel Club (AKC) field trials. There's a lot of details here about the different types of stakes, how you can earn titles with your dog, and things to keep in mind when entering a field trial. The Accidental Bird Dog Podcast is sponsored by OnX Hunt and Boss Shotshells. We are part of the HerUpland family of podcasts. You can find me on the following platforms: | |||
| AKC Master Hunter Tests for Pointing Breeds | 12 Apr 2023 | 00:28:34 | |
This episode is a continuation of Episodes 3 and 4 and discusses the Master Hunter level of AKC Hunt Tests for pointing breeds. I cover what to expect and the differences between Senior and Master. I also cover some tips on how to succeed at this level. The Accidental Bird Dog Podcast is sponsored by OnX Hunt and Boss Shotshells. We are part of the HerUpland family of podcasts. You can find me on the following platforms: | |||
| AKC Senior Hunter Tests for Pointing Breeds | 29 Mar 2023 | 00:34:46 | |
This episode is a continuation of Episode 3 and discusses the Senior Hunter level of AKC Hunt Tests for pointing breeds. I cover what to expect, the additional categories that are judged, and how to earn the SH title. I also cover some tips on how to succeed at this level. The Accidental Bird Dog Podcast is sponsored by OnX Hunt and Boss Shotshells. We are part of the HerUpland family of podcasts. You can find me on the following platforms: | |||
| AKC Hunt Tests for Pointing Breeds + Junior Hunter | 15 Mar 2023 | 00:36:58 | |
This episode discusses an overview of the American Kennel Club hunt testing system for pointing breeds. The Junior Hunter level is discussed in-depth: what to expect, what is judged, and how to earn titles. I also cover some tips for how to have the best experience. The Accidental Bird Dog Podcast is sponsored by OnX Hunt and Boss Shotshells. We are part of the HerUpland family of podcasts. You can find Terry Ann on the following platforms: | |||
| An Overview of Dog Sport Organizations | 24 Feb 2023 | 00:17:19 | |
This episode gives an introduction to the main organizations that put on hunting tests and trials for pointing breeds. I cover well-known ones such as the American Kennel Club, United Kennel Club, American Field, and NAVHDA. I also discuss the wide variety of specialized groups like JGV USA, UFTA, SBHA, and NAHRA. The Accidental Bird Dog Podcast is sponsored by OnX Hunt and Boss Shotshells. We are part of the HerUpland family of podcasts. You can find Terry Ann on the following platforms: | |||
| Weimaraner Club of America Retrieving Ratings | 03 Jul 2024 | 00:45:44 | |
Gretchen Stephenson, Weimaraner owner, breeder, and trainer, joins me to talk about Retrieving Ratings tests for Weimaraners. These events were developed in the 1950s as a way to objectively evaluate the hunting skills of Weimaraners and are put on by the Weimaraner Club of America. You can get in touch with Gretchen on Facebook, via email at gretchen.stephenson@gmail.com or view her website at caninemannersandmore.com. The Accidental Bird Dog Podcast is sponsored by OnX Hunt, Boss Shotshells, and Toyota. We are part of the HerUpland Podcast Network. You can find me on the following platforms: | |||
| Who is the Accidental Bird Dog? | 24 Feb 2023 | 00:35:11 | |
This episode introduces how I got into the bird dog world and dog sports with my vizsla, Zara. Although she was originally only supposed to be a pet and running partner, when I entered her in an AKC Junior Hunter test at the age of two, her exceptional performance inspired me to continue. There have been plenty of ups and downs along the way, but the journey to discovering my passion has been worth it. The Accidental Bird Dog Podcast is sponsored by OnX Hunt and Boss Shotshells. We are part of the HerUpland family of podcasts. You can find Terry Ann on the following platforms: | |||
| Trailer | 24 Feb 2023 | 00:02:34 | |
A quick overview of why the Accidental Bird Dog Podcast was created and the topics that will be covered in upcoming episodes. | |||
| Testing/Trialing vs Hunting | 19 Jun 2024 | 00:26:57 | |
Some consider wild bird hunting to be superior to tests and trials involving pen-raised birds. But for many people, hunting events have their place as well. In this episode, I discuss the value of tests and trials as well as transitioning between these events and hunting. The Accidental Bird Dog Podcast is sponsored by OnX Hunt, Boss Shotshells, and Toyota. We are part of the HerUpland Podcast Network. You can find me on the following platforms: | |||
| Ideas for Summer Training | 05 Jun 2024 | 00:28:25 | |
Summer is often a lull period between testing and trialing seasons. When it's hot and humid and there isn't always access to birds, you may be wondering what to work on with your bird dog. This episode covers some ideas of things to do during the summer months. The Accidental Bird Dog Podcast is sponsored by OnX Hunt, Boss Shotshells, and Toyota. We are part of the HerUpland Podcast Network. You can find me on the following platforms: | |||
| Becoming a NAVHDA Judge | 22 May 2024 | 00:59:49 | |
Mike Neiduski, owner of Ugly Dog Hunting company and Senior NAVHDA judge, joins me to talk about becoming a NAVHDA judge. We discuss his experiences going through the Apprentice Program, including why he decided to become a judge, what it was like to apprentice for the first time, and what he enjoyed the most about being an apprentice. We also get into his journey becoming a Senior judge and what the future may hold. Mike also hosts the Ugly Dog Podcast. You can find him on Instagram, Facebook, or Tiktok. And you can visit his website or send him an email at info@uglydoghunting.com. The Accidental Bird Dog Podcast is sponsored by OnX Hunt, Boss Shotshells, and Toyota. We are part of the HerUpland Podcast Network. You can find me on the following platforms: | |||
| Walking in AKC Horseback Field Trials | 08 May 2024 | 00:32:56 | |
Did you know that you can always handle your dog from foot in an AKC horseback field trial? In this episode I discuss some considerations and ways to prepare yourself to be a walking handler in a horseback stake. Even if you might be at a slight disadvantage, your dog can still be successful. The Accidental Bird Dog Podcast is sponsored by OnX Hunt, Boss Shotshells, and Toyota. We are part of the HerUpland Podcast Network. You can find me on the following platforms: | |||
| UFTA Field Trials | 24 Apr 2024 | 00:47:43 | |
I interviewed UFTA judge Brian Cooney about United Field Trialers Association field trials. We discussed the different divisions, the rules, and why he likes this field trial game over others. You can find Brian on Instagram @wingshotandfall. For more information about UFTA, check out their website at ufta-online.com. The Accidental Bird Dog Podcast is sponsored by OnX Hunt, Boss Shotshells, and Toyota. We are part of the HerUpland Podcast Network. You can find me on the following platforms: | |||
| Scouting in Field Trials | 02 Oct 2024 | 00:49:22 | |
Experienced horse trainer and field trialer Meredith Mays joins me to discuss the art of scouting in American Field/UKC and AKC field trials. Meredith provides insight on a scout's responsibilities, the characteristics that make a good scout, and what makes a dog challenging to scout for. Meredith is passionate about encouraging people new to field trials and making the sport enjoyable for everyone. If you'd like to reach out to Meredith, find her on Facebook. The Accidental Bird Dog Podcast is sponsored by OnX Hunt and Boss Shotshells. We are part of the HerUpland Podcast Network. | |||
| Dealing with Success | 18 Sep 2024 | 00:23:56 | |
This is the companion to the previous episode, Dealing with Failure. It might seem weird to talk about "dealing" with success, because, after all, isn't success a good thing in the context of dog sports? But success is not always as straightforward as you might think. The Accidental Bird Dog Podcast is sponsored by OnX Hunt and Boss Shotshells. We are part of the HerUpland Podcast Network. | |||
| Preventing Injuries in Canine Athletes | 30 Oct 2024 | 00:51:30 | |
For this episode, I am joined by Dr. Carol Gillis, a rehab veterinarian and ultrasound specialist based in Aiken, South Carolina. Dr. Gillis has many years of experience helping horses and dogs recover from injuries, including my vizsla, Zara! She shares invaluable insights and unique strategies to keep canine athletes in peak condition. Whether you're a seasoned competitor or just starting out, this conversation is full of tips to prevent injuries in hunt test, field trial, and hunting dogs. You can reach Dr. Gillis through her website: equineultrasound.com. The Supreme Top Form joint supplement is available at panamvetcorp.com. The Accidental Bird Dog Podcast is sponsored by OnX Hunt and Boss Shotshells. We are part of the HerUpland Podcast Network. | |||
| Zara's Iliopsoas Injury and Recovery | 16 Oct 2024 | 00:47:02 | |
Zara was diagnosed with a major injury early this year – bilateral iliopsoas strains/tears. In this episode, I talk about how she went from being an extremely active 10 year old dog to a rehab patient having to endure months of restricted exercise and rehab. It was a tough process for both of us but thankfully she is doing much better now. I discuss how I think the injury originated and everything I did to help her recover. This episode sets the stage for the next one which will cover prevention of injury for canine athletes. The Accidental Bird Dog Podcast is sponsored by OnX Hunt and Boss Shotshells. We are part of the HerUpland Podcast Network. | |||
| Training Mistakes and Lessons Learned | 13 Nov 2024 | 00:45:15 | |
In this episode, I discuss my training journey with Zara, sharing the real, sometimes unfortunate mistakes I made along the way—and the valuable lessons I learned from them. From challenges with steadiness and retrieving to issues with honoring, duck searches, and the blind retrieve, I dive into the struggles that come with training your first dog. The good news is, I learned a lot and managed to recover from most of these setbacks—though it certainly took time! Now, as I start training my new puppy, Lanka, I'm applying these lessons to make sure I do things differently this time around. Tune in to hear my honest reflections and get insights you can use to avoid common training pitfalls with your own bird dog. The Accidental Bird Dog Podcast is sponsored by OnX Hunt and Boss Shotshells. We are part of the HerUpland Podcast Network. | |||
| NAVHDA Natural Ability Test Preparation & Recap | 27 Nov 2024 | 00:36:08 | |
In this episode, I discuss how I went about preparing for the NAVHDA Natural Ability test with my puppy, Lanka. I also give a recap of the highs and lows on test day—including when 4-month-old Lanka went a little rogue! Listen for a behind-the-scenes look at how Lanka's first bird dog event went. The Accidental Bird Dog Podcast is sponsored by OnX Hunt and Boss Shotshells. We are part of the HerUpland Podcast Network. | |||
| Competing with an Older Bird Dog | 11 Dec 2024 | 00:57:04 | |
In this episode, I interviewed Carl Correra, who is an AKC field trial judge and competitor. Last year, I had the honor of watching Carl and his 12 year old GSP, Fancy, participate in the inaugural AKC Master Hunter Excellent test. Fancy tore up the course, was steady as a rock, and had all the participants cheering for her. As someone who has unintentionally been competing with an older dog due to our late start, I've found myself being worried about her age. I think there's a lot of misconception out there about what is possible for a dog who is 10+. Carl and I discuss considerations to keep your older bird dog going strong even as they age. You can email find Carl on Facebook or send him an email: cvcorrera@yahoo.com. The Accidental Bird Dog Podcast is sponsored by OnX Hunt and Boss Shotshells. We are part of the HerUpland Podcast Network. | |||
| End of the Year Episode 2024: Listener Questions! | 25 Dec 2024 | 00:38:20 | |
This is the last episode of 2024! Thanks to everyone who has listened this year. In this episode, I answer questions about Zara and Lanka, the priority I place on wild bird hunting, and what I'm looking forward to in 2025. The Accidental Bird Dog Podcast is sponsored by OnX Hunt and Boss Shotshells. We are part of the HerUpland Podcast Network. | |||