[KwickLabs]

This summer I plan to run both of my retrievers (Gigi & Pounce) in AKC and HRC
hunt tests. At my age (80 years old), getting around from one test site to another
tends to be an issue. They will not be running in the same level.

I have a UTV. Does anyone use something like that to move dogs around? My
Transit Van is next to useless over grassy ground and/or mud. Thoughts?

 

[crackerd]

Kwick, from my real-life experience, the only hitch or speed bump😉 you might encounter is a hunt test (or FT 🖤) held on public grounds such as wildlife areas where ATVs are ordinarily prohibited. In such case, the host club can be issued permits to use these vehicles as a necessity in staging retriever events - and occasionally delivering a double-staked or multiple stake handler to the line. Alas, different clubs’ mileage (and mile-age😉) may vary - so respective clubs should be consulted for guidance ahead of entering.

But just think - if only you had gone into pointers instead of retrievers: You would have a “UTV” at your disposal from the git-go, what with horseback trials...Though all that sangin’ to them birddogs by their mounted handlers probably wouldn’t go over very well with you—

MG

 

[Tobias]

Some of the HRC tests I've been to the clubs had UTV's and I do know I saw at least one entrant/dog transported to the last holding blind. Perhaps the best thing would be to contact the hunt test chairman and let them know you are interested in entering but need to be able to use your UTV or ask if the club has one that you could hitch a ride in.

 

[dr_dog_guy]

I've used one to both manage traffic related issues and deliver gallery members in a National, and they are common at many field trials, FWIW.

 

[22899]

I have seen them at tests, a crate on back.. They park them under an easy up for shade.. Common..
There are unwritten rules at most properties for dirt roads that run through them.. Park off to the side of roads, with two wheels just off the road and the other two, just off center line of imaginary lane.. or ,in designated parking area for the test you are attending..

IMHO,, It would be an advaatage and a welcome practice, If people who could use them did.. It would save space and help protect against road damage..

This of course ,only IF people who drove them respected property owners rules as far as roads,making sure you only traveled on roads established..

I would think they would frown on folks using them to travel from 1 holding blind to the next..UNLESS,, there are special health circumstances,,, Then, I think the judges would do best to consider convienient placement, or make accomodations for those people...

 

[jwilliams38930]

Kwick,
Call the club and ask. Or if you know the site would lend itself well to one, take it and ask at the registration desk (probably get a yes out of sympathy). All the tests I've run or marshalled there are usually ATVs/UTVs running everywhere, mostly club members . But depending on the test site, your truck may be the better choice to get you right to the line.

 

[Jerry Running]

Jim Manitowoc Kennel Club has a spring and fall hunt test also a licensed trial we would gladly have you and your utv at any one of our events free camping .

 

[KwickLabs]

Manitowoc is on my list both times (Master with Pounce & Gigi Junior early/Senior later). Thanks for the input.

 

[Keith Stroyan]

Our club runs on public ground in E. Iowa and they don't allow vehicles of any kind beyond the parking lots. (State law and managers have held firm against exceptions.) You could shuttle back and forth between stakes on the gravel roads, but the Transit would work there.