The 5th Generation

Last November, Gidget blessed us with 8 healthy pups that were the 5th generation of dogs we have produced here on the hill.

Over 20 years, we have strived to produce healthy, happy, well-socialized, grouse hunting dogs.

I have a lot of people to thank over the years for breeding mentoring and helping me obtain those foundation dogs that made this all possible.

First and foremost, Patrick, you saved my life with Gunner.

Rick and Brenda, you willingly sold me a dog that I wasn't going to test or show, and I know how big of a deal that is for your program. Yet, you trusted me and the plan I had to build off what you sold me.

Mike, I am forever thankful for your tutelage when it comes to the hard parts and your willingness to share stud dogs between our programs. Let's hope Scout sires some good ones for ya this spring!

What does 5 generations mean?

Many dogs...some no longer with us, leaving us to balance joy with sorrow.

Some dogs didn't make the cut and my boys, who were young at the time, learned about integrity the hard way when dad had to move a dog that wasn't good enough, for one reason or another, to make the cut to be bred.

It means having an understanding wife who can deliver pups and help make critical decisions.

Thousands of pounds of dog food.

Thousands of dollars of health and DNA testing.

Thousands of miles on the truck and the boots proofing the dogs.

Great memories to remember.

Many new "family" members.

To be honest, I probably wouldn't change a thing.

It has also led to giving back.

While taping a radio show today to speak about the Bonasa Bonanza and our annual Veteran's Hunt, it hit me that it really never occurred to me just how much we have grown and how much we (along with BDM Gundogs, Pyke Gear, Second Chance Bird Dogs, and many others) are trying to give back and grow the sport.

For those helping us do that, we sincerely thank you.

We have come a long way from two dog kennels off the back of a garage on a 1 acre lot...it takes a village to do that.

UG