JOHNSONBURG — Bethany Ford of the Ruffed Grouse Society (RGS) Upland Bird Hunt Chapter announced that a couple of slots are still open for the individual, one-on-one bird dog training clinic set May 17 at Rolfe Beagle Club.

This training clinic is for new bird dog handlers or experienced handlers who want additional help with training their dog. This training is an extension of the Upland Bird Hunt Chapter’s popular Future Hunter and Handlers’ Clinic.

“We call this the Train the Trainer Clinic,” said Tom McPherson.

Each will receive two hours of one-on-one time with an experienced bird dog trainer. All dogs must be of a pointing breed. You must register your dog in advance so the proper training materials will be available at the club. Register with Ford at bjmf989@gmail.com.

Registered dogs must be 8 months old as of mid-May. Registration will be accepted via mail at the Rolfe Beagle Club, 1016 Long Level Road, Johnsonburg, PA 15845. Registration must include your name, address, email, breed of dog and dog’s name, and any training needs you may want to work on. Sign up for the 8 a.m. or the 10:30 a.m. start time; reference your preferred time slot.

The format for the training includes an initial evaluation by the trainer of your dog on live birds, and then training will be geared to what is perceived to be your dog’s needs, or a special request by the handler. If you desire to shoot birds over your dog for retrieve training, you must provide your own gun and shells limited to No. 7 or smaller shot.

The Rolfe Beagle Club has the following training tools: bird bands, whoa table, pigeons, quail, frozen rabbits for furred game drags, bumpers, two wetlands for water retrieves, duck socks, foot release launchers, electronic launchers and bird tape.

Morning coffee and lunch will be provided by Rolfe Beagle Club.