A year-old Labrador named Moose from Ashby-de-la-Zouch in Leicestershire has won the Kennel Club Novice Retriever Gundog Working Test, held at Chatsworth House, Derbyshire by the gracious permission of the Duke and Duchess of Devonshire. The judges were Alan Rees and Allie Hogsbjerg. The event is kindly sponsored by Eukanuba.
Moose, owned and handled by Laura Hill, was awarded first place at the test which saw talented retrieving breeds tested on their natural working abilities including marking the fall of a dummy and fast delivery to hand.
Laura said: “I was delighted to have won this event as Moose is still very young. I would like to say a massive thank you to all the organisers, helpers and judges. It was a very well run event and enjoyable for us all. The extremely hot weather made it very difficult for the handlers, dogs and judges; however, everyone had a very good time.’’
Caroline Kisko, Kennel Club Secretary, said: “Well done to Laura and Moose on their great achievement. Labradors love to please their owners and the rapport between dogs and handlers was clear to see among all four finalists. Moose has only recently left puppyhood, so this is a fabulous start for him. We wish Laura and Moose all the best for the future”.
The results for the day were as follows:
- 1st Stauntonvale Moose Milk, Labrador Retriever owned and handled by Laura Hill
- 2nd Stokes of George at Ashwynd, Labrador Retriever owned and handled by Danielle Turton
- 3rd Waterygate Sydney, Labrador Retriever owned and handled by Richard Kershaw
- 4th Minstead Costello, Labrador Retriever owned by Judith White and handled by Ian White