This past Saturday, BlazE had the chance to do a practice hunt test in Hillsboro, Illinois, and he showed exactly why he loves this work. From the moment the bird was in the air, he was alert, focused, and ready to go. The tall grass, warm weather, and pond made for a great training day.

BlazE worked through the field with enthusiasm, marking the bird and moving with confidence through the cover. After the retrieve, he proudly carried the bird back, showing both drive and a steady willingness to work. The water portion was a highlight of the day. BlazE launched himself into the pond with plenty of energy, made a big splash, and came back carrying the bird like a dog who knew he had done his job well.

Practice days like this are valuable because they give the dog experience in realistic hunt test conditions while keeping the atmosphere relaxed and encouraging. For BlazE, it was also simply a day to do what Springer Spaniels were bred to do: find birds, retrieve them, and enjoy every minute of it.

It was a great outing in Hillsboro and a good step forward in BlazE’s continued field training.