The Rocky Mountain Chapter of NAVHDA has finalized its 2017 training schedule.

In addition to the traditional five training days at Cobb Lake SWA, we’re offering three new training opportunities this year.

• Indoor training day – February 25: To make sure we hit the ground running on March 4, we’re holding an indoor training day at the Spicer Arena on Saturday Feb. 25. The goal of the day is to introduce new handlers to the equipment they’ll be using during training days and the elements of NAVHDA tests. Trainer/handlers of young dogs will learn about preparing for the Natural Ability Test, and we will also discuss the various aspects of more advanced testing designed to help provide fully functional hunting dogs. Handlers working on more advanced skills (Utility Prep, Utility, or Invitational Test levels) are encouraged to attend so we can hear what your training goals are for the coming year. Look for an invitation from Signup Genius soon.
• Force Fetch Clinic – June TBD: This is a special clinic for UT Handlers who want to successfully take their dog through Force Fetch. Tom Swezey of Indian Brook Kennels – an experienced trainer and NAVHDA breeder, will host it. Participation will be limited to 10 handlers per day. (A second day will be added if there’s enough interest.) There will be a fee. Expect an invitation through Signup Genius when details are finalized.
• Advanced Skills Training Clinic – July 8-9: This is a special, two-day clinic to help UT handlers learn how to train their dogs to be successful in the skills possessed by a finished gun dog, including steadiness in the field and duck search. To be hosted at Cobb Lake SWA by Blaine Carter of the NAVHDA Yankee Chapter in Maine. Attendance will be limited. There will be a fee. Expect an invitation through Signup Genius when details are finalized.

Regular Training Days
at Cobb Lake SWA

• March 4
• April 1
• May 6
• June 3
• August 5

What’s up with Signup Genius? We’ve been blown away by the increased membership over the past two years. Planning for and managing training days to make sure they are productive for all handlers has been a challenge. To ensure we’re ready for you, we create a training roster for each day – something that’s proved to be time-consuming. This year, we’re using Signup Genius to help us track RSVPs and to take bird orders. IF YOU DO NOT RSVP TO TRAINING INVITATIONS WITH SIGNUP GENIUS, YOUR BIRD ORDER WILL NOT BE TALLIED. You’ll still be able to train with us, but you’ll be on your own for birds that day. To ensure you receive Signup Genius invitations, update your Chapter membership today!

Questions? Email RMC NAVHDA.