Up until a couple years ago, having a dog was never really that important to me.  After all, I’ve been hunting for many years, and usually did just fine.  I did know that if I were to ever get a dog, that I wanted a chocolate lab.  I don’t really know why, but I just like them.  Now that I have one, and one that likes to hunt, my outlook has changed.   When I learned that there are labs that can point, that changed my outlook even more.  To have a chocolate lab that will point…that’s the best of both worlds.  I now have my sights set on a pointing lab, as soon as my dog has worked through his useful years.  I’m in no rush to replace him.

One of the biggest reasons I wanted to check out an APLA event, was to watch these dogs in action.  It is also a good place to make some connections with people and trainers.  The other reason… taking pictures of dogs doing water work is never boring.  The sheer determination and enthusiasm with which these dogs perform, is inspiring.

On Saturday, I was invited to shoot the APLA Michigan hunt test, by my friend Dave.  It was beautiful day to be out watching these dogs.  The event was held at Omega Farms in Williamston, MI.  Even with both man and beast present, there were wild ducks and geese flying past all morning.  It is great natural setting for a dog test.  The tests were held on several different ponds and fields that simulated hunting scenerios quite well.  Because of the high level of certification that was at stake, I was not allowed to shoot the entire event, but I was able to grab some nice images.  Below is a slideshow of the event.  You can visit the full photo gallery HERE, to view and purchase photos, or use the menu above to search through sportdogphoto.com.
Enjoy.
Dave