A Weekend in Maine for Spinone owners and their dogs from the most experienced to the first timers getting their dogs out on birds and seeing what the Spinone is all about. It is a weekend of fun getting to know one another and helping each other out and training the next generation. We have professional and experienced trainers and volunteer from the Yankee NAVDHA Chapter, Merrymeeting Kennels and Northeast Spinone Club on hand to lead the exercises.
REGISTER NOW FOR OUR EVENT ON JUNE 29 AND 30. SIGN UP HERE
General FAQs:
How Many Dogs Can I Bring?
You are welcome to bring up to 5 dogs, however we recommend only bringing as many as you can successfully handle for the day. This is generally one per handler. But you know your dogs and your abilities. We try to coordinate exercises to accommodate multiple dogs as best as we can.
How many birds are included in each activity?
Due to a general bird shortage, there is not a guaranteed number of birds with each activity. What we can promise is the appropriate number and type of bird will be made available for your dog to complete the activity
What activities should I sign up for?
You are welcome to sign-up for whatever activities you want, in addition to the general group activities provided as part of registration. Each extra activity package has a description on what it is, what skill level it is geared toward, and what it includes. Generally, more advanced activities like Utility Test training or Duck searches, we recommend your dog having more advanced skills like a reliable retrieve.
Still not quite sure? Just ask! spinoneonly@northeastspinone.org
Are the activities only hunting oriented?
No! The vast majority are, but we also try to include things such as obedience, grooming, health, first aid, and more. There is also a wealth of information about Spinone and great people there to learn from.
Can I purchase extra birds?
Unfortunately due to the general bird shortage we cannot allow for extra bird purchases in advance. If at the end of the weekend there are remaining birds, and you have the proper paperwork to transport the birds, we may sell them at that time.
Where are the training activities held?
The training site is located on the Green Point Wildlife Management Area portion of Choice View Farm. The fields allow for all levels of NAVHDA training. Only a short walk from the fields, there is Natural Ability level water in the form of a small pond and access to broader waters for Utility level work another short walk down the road.
We enter the site by the green barn where there is plenty of room for staging and parking along the top field. Shade is limited at the training site, so it’s highly recommended that you bring along some form of sun shade/shelter along with plenty of water.
Address: Point Road (Off River Rd/Rte 128), Dresden, ME 04342
What are some lodging options?
Here are some of the accommodations in the area. Since it is the last weekend of June places book quickly.
- Maine Idyll Motor Court – 1 and 2 Bedroom Cabins – 207-865-4201
- Best Western Freeport Inn – 207-865-3106
- EconoLodge – 207-865-3777
- Harraseeket Inn (Limited number of Pet Friendly Rooms) – 800-342-3777
NOTE: THERE IS NO ON-SITE CAMPING OR OVERNIGHT STAYS ALLOWED AT THE TRAINING SITE AND NO LEAVING VEHICLES THERE OVERNIGHT. PACK-IN, PACK-OUT DAILY.
What if I have more questions?
No problem! Just send us an email, spinoneonly@northeastspinone.org