Judges report
I was delighted to be invited to judge the L1 Trial, which I believe is the most important of all the trials. Why? Because it introduces dogs and their handlers to a formalised event to show just how far they have come.
I must commend the efficiency of all the team involved setting up one of the first trials after the lockdown. They created a great atmosphere, which helped settle the nerves of those attending. And before it sounds like an Oscar acceptance speech, I must thank my chauffeur and scribe Caroline.

So what were my thoughts on the triallists? Something that I noted for all was how well the dogs had come through the latest, somewhat lengthy, lockdown. They were happy to work and could easily detect the close odour as the results clearly show. OK, some were more enthusiastic than others, which did result in the handler needing to do more to settle them. Handling on the whole was good, although I think with more opportunity to train outside of ‘at home’ and online – I think we have handlers and dogs with a great future potential.

For me there is nothing better than to watch dogs having fun and owners understanding how their dogs work. I appreciate that different breeds have different quirks when they work. It was clear from the different techniques at ‘set up’ prior to the search, that handlers understood what would work for their dogs. Michael, I just loved you technique.

I know that some handlers were chasing Excellence awards, whilst others were just starting on their scentwork journey. I am sure I will see these enthusiasts moving up the levels and achieving great things. Well done everyone