My dream has always been to be a professional trainer in Europe. And it came close to happening a couple of times now. But life happens in such a way that the best things befall you, exactly how they are meant to. I know I’d cut it, I know I’d excel, and I know I’d be happy at it. It is where the way of developing and showing a Pointer and Setter is wholly understood and more importantly, appreciated by the cultured eyes and minds. The level I train my dogs to, and the small intricacies that they exhibit and show are not only not seen, but not even understood by most people I guide. But they still see and can comment on a highly trained animals ability to do something otherwise ‘common’ in an uncommon way. I now get to do a few of the things I am good at and enjoy in one broad package. Namely; hosting, cooking, educating, showing guests special places, all whilst doing it with my beautiful dogs.
This photo captures Bianca casting across me, using the winds like only a Pointer can, eating up the ground like a type writer – methodically and trial like. The closest thing I have to show off my dogs qualities in a European trial way, to a European trial standard, all while hunting at the same time. And when I break that down, it is something quite special after all. I haven’t settled, I’ve just carved my own place in the world doing something I know I am gifted at and blessed with. And isn’t that what life is about?
Always chasing the horizon.
Pictured: Bianca of Ourano casting across my discerning eye whilst I look on at her brace mate somewhere further to the left.