We're pleased to introduce the newly formed Missouri Hunting Spaniel Club, Inc. (MHSC). Established in 2005, the MHSC has brought together flushing dog enthusiasts throughout Missouri, Kansas, Illinois, and Oklahoma.
The MHSC is a not for. profit organization that provides members:
A forum to discuss training, handling, and hunting strategies;
An opportunity to regularly participate in organized training sessions;
A nearby location to engage in hunting tests, working certificate tests, and field trials; and
The chance to work with other members to promote and advance the interests of flushing breeds.
WHO CAN JOIN ?
Anyone interested in learning more about training, handling, hunting, or owning flushing dogs are welcome. Individuals owning flushing retrievers are welcome to participate as well. Applicants must be in good standing with the American Kennel Club (AKC) and subscribe to the purposes of the MHSC.
WHAT IS A FLUSHING DOG?
The primary purpose of flushing dog breeds are to seek, find, and then force the hunter's quarry to flee (flush). With the exception of the Irish Water Spaniel, all spaniel breeds such as the English Springer, Cocker, or Clumber are classified as Flushing breeds by the AKC. Although considered primarily retrievers, breeds such as the Labrador and Golden can excel as upland flushers as well.
WHAT CAN I EXPECT?
Well, that's a good question. Our members find that MHSC events offer a relaxed atmosphere with outdoor and dog related activities for the entire family. Every effort is made to include all dogs, puppies, and owners in club events. We like to think that MHSC has something for anyone who enjoys chasing something wild.
FIELD EVENTS
Many of our Field Events such as Hunting Tests, provide participants and spectators the opportunity to observe or directly evaluate the abilities of their dogs within realistic hunting scenarios. Those dogs and handlers receiving qualifying scores by a judging panel receive ribbons and official recognition by the AKC and the MHSC.
Training and handling skills gained through participation in these events have helped make many a covert more productive. Folks come away with an enhanced appreciation of what teamwork between a dog and handler can accomplish.
EDUCATION
The MHSC is dedicated to providing educational opportunities to the flushing dog community and the general public. Members present flushing dog demonstrations at sportsman, hunting, and outdoor shows each year. These activities really showcase the versatility of our spaniel shooting dogs.
We typically host one training seminar each year given by a successful professional trainer. These events provide members with the latest training techniques to assist in advancing the skills of the handler in handling, hunting, and training their pups.
A WORD ABOUT CONSERVATION
The health and integrity of wildlife populations is an important issue to the MHSC. Many of our members participate in local conservation education efforts. In addition, several of us belong to dedicated conservation groups such as Pheasants Forever, Quail Unlimited, and The North American Grouse Partnership.
Central to our conservation ethic is a belief that a well-trained dog will produce and bring to hand more birds. We can help.
CONTACT US
Please contact us with any questions you may have regarding:
Training Upland Flushing Breeds;
Local Dog Related Activities;
Dates and Locations of Upcoming Spaniel Field Events; and
Local puppies, started , or finished-level dogs available for sale.
We look forward to hearing from you!
Sincerely,
Tim Baker, President Missouri Hunting Spaniel Club, Inc.