The Sebasticook Chapter of NAVHDA is the northern-most chapter in Maine. The chapter has access to training grounds in Smithfield, Maine where beautiful farm lands abut the North and East Ponds of Belgrade Lakes region. The serious water training takes place at a vegetation-choked beaver pond with standing timber and floating bog in nearby Rome, Maine. As a chapter of NAVHDA International, the Seb
asticook Chapter supports the mission of NAVHDA by helping people learn how to train their own dogs using all aspects of the NAVHDA hunt test as a standard means to measure training and performance progress. However, we are not all about testing. Above all, we are training our dogs to hunt game responsibly. As we train our dogs to hunt with the help of the NAVHDA Aims, Programs, Test Rules and the NAVHDA "Green Book," our dogs become more disciplined and cooperative. As our own training skills improve, we advance from amateur trainer to a level where we can share the knowledge and skills we have learned with the next first time puppy owner or the handler who has had too many years without a pup at his feet. We have a full calendar of events that begins with an indoor clinic in February until our training season concludes with the NAVHDA-sanctioned Fall test in September. Throughout the year, the Sebasticook Chapter holds numerous training clinics that offer all the aspects of the NAVHDA Aims, Programs, Test Rules. The Chapter is fortunate to have several members who have led their hunting companions to a Versatile Championship - the greatest prize of the NAVHDA testing system. We welcome all hunters who love working with their bird dogs, whether on land or water, to join us. Whether you desire a dog that will hold point, find cripples and stay in the county with you, or whether your goal is to develop a Versatile Champion, train with us and learn how to train your hunting dog to the level you are satisfied with.
