06/02/2026
At the end of every shooting season I always recap, what went wrong "no such thing as the perfect season"
But also things that went great!
As a hobby gamekeeper it's been a season of ups and downs. We've had some good day's but also some frustrating ones.. seems to be the case up and down the country this season for many shoots.
I think we all know the pheasant shooting season needs to start a month or so later but I guess we should be happy enough to carry on with this best of pastimes.
The end of the season is also time to reflect on the dogs!
In all honesty they started off a little rusty/naughty... whatever you want to call it! The blame was mine and mine only.
We soon rectified that and then they settle down to the season ahead and worked very well, they've been a pleasure to work.
Looking forward.... Willow is now 10 yrs old and she'll be worked for another season or two.
She's no longer the bramble basher she was, she really was fantastic in cover.
If a birds in the nasty stuff she's still in willingly but she no longer does it if its not necessary,
I wouldn't expect her to flog herself at this age. she's earned her stripes and the respect from myself and others 👏
What's the retirement age for a Gundog??
I suppose that all depends on the dogs condition and the handlers judgement.
My opinion... Gundogs willingly put themselves through the mill during their working life and they
absolutely deserve the best of retirements.
Yep, work them until the signs show but I like mine to have a few years of retirement.
They aren't machines!
Try telling that to a Gundog in its twilight years on a shoot day morning whilst your getting ready... the guilt is very real 😬
