The Kennel Club has announced an increase in the number of dog handlers undertaking and passing the Working Gundog Certificate on dummies in 2009, H&C has learnt.

A shining example of the Kennel Club’s ‘Fit for Function: Fit for Life’ campaign; the working gundog epitomises the Kennel Club’s belief that every dog should be able to fulfil its natural function by being well bred, healthy and happy.

The Working Gundog Certificate aims to provide credible proof that the handler and dog are a competent partnership, with the qualities to fulfil the general requirements of work on a shoot.

The Working Certificate’s success has been possible due to the loyal support of the London Cocker Spaniel Society, the German Shorthaired Pointer Club and the Mid Sussex Working Spaniel Society, which each now hold annual WGC events which in turn help the sport to thrive.

For the first time, in 2009 the Working Gundog Certificate was made available to Novice Retriever and Spaniel handlers and to Young Handlers at the Gundog Working Test with a fantastic pass rate of 90%. This is especially pleasing for Young Handlers who are proudly continuing the sport for future generations.

A Working Gundog Certificate presentation for successful partnerships will take place on Gundog day at DFS Crufts 2010 on Sunday 14th March in the Dog Activities Ring in Hall 3. See the link below for the Crufts website.