Gun Dog Forum

Hi all,

I am new to the site and in Southwest Virginia (Roanoke). I am primarily a waterfowl hunter and have a three year old black lab. However, I would like to do more upland hunting, especially for Grouse. I know of several spots that consistently have birds but my experience has been mainly walking them up without a dog. My wife and I got a German Shorthaired Pointer puppy, who is now seven months old. Both of her parents are hunters and she seems extremely "birdy," chasing, stalking, and pointing robins in the backyard. While I trained my lab myself, and he's turned out very well, I know next to nothing about training a pointer, other than the little bit I have started reading. Does anyone know of any good trainers in SW Virginia, preferably within an hour or two of Roanoke? Any other tips or advice for beginning training would be appreciated as well.

Thanks!

Welcome to the forum. You'll get lots of expert help here. Can't help with a trainer as I live in Ontario Canada

Hi and welcome -

Like Sharon, I am not familiar with the SW VA area. However, there are two NAVHDA chapters in VA. These organizations are focused on helping hunting dog owners train their own dogs. Might just be a good fit for both you and your wife.

I noted one chapter(Chesapeake) had a contact name that I am a bit familiar with a Mr. Dan Carter. I met him some years back and he seemed very knowledgeable and very willing to help.

I would contact them and ask for assistance in both your training journey and in locating a good pro.

The best shorthair guy I know that is anywhere near you is Bruce Shaffer, but he is in West VA.

RayG

Do you have a computer? Do a search for GSP club of Virgina. I just did it and there's both AKC and Amer Field clubs there. Probably some NSTRA clubs, American Bird hunters ect. Probably less than an hour from you too!

Here ya go: Bill Berkley, Pres Virgina NSTRA Club
1240 Pisqua Rd
Goode, Virgina 24556
PH 434-660-9951

Good place to start!

Might check with Martha Greenlee, on Steady with Style!

Just remembered...

Contact info for:

GSP OF CENTRAL VIRGINIA
Mary Durham
412 Good Hope Church Rd.
Aroda, VA 22709-0949
540-718-4810
quailpoint1@gmail.com

Mary Durham is one of the finest folks I know. She will help you if she can.

Ray Gubernat

Thank you all for your responses. I appreciate it!

I know a few good ones but they're all further into NC and further east than you're looking for.