Getting to the tree

[elkheadb&t]

One of the things that makes hound hunting so incredible to me is the the well maybe's or the I thinks, Or the I guarantee's, the oh craps, or maybe the young dog jumping a deer out ahead of the old dogs that turns into a cat, or vise versa. No matter how long we do this, No matter how much we learn there are still those thoughts and feelings that make hound hunting so great.
But there isn't any feeling better than after a race walking into the tree and seeing that young dog treeing the first time, Seeing the animal that you have spent so many hours training your dogs to tree. Seeing if all your dogs made it, So for me getting to the tree is one of the most rewarding moments in hound hunting, Its where it all comes together. Whats Yours?
Happy hunting. Jim

[bob baldwin jr]

Jim: Over the years we have tried to introduce several kids to hounding . other than our own it is really KOOL to witness a kid arriving at a tree and seeing his own hound in on the action . we have GIVEN a few hounds to kids usually with-out fathers who NEVER would have the oppurtunity to enjoy the GAME . Yes times are tough some we even have to build the kennel , provide the food and vet services on a year round basis , BUT the rewards to us is inmeasureable . Out of respect to them ,I won't mention names but I honestly feel that because of it they have changed their outlook on life . Something you just can't put a pricetag on .

[elkheadb&t]

That is awesome above and beyond, and my hat is off to you. I was given an old dog when I was 13 and can definitely agree with you because it effected my life for sure. We raised three kids and all of them enjoyed going out with the hounds, along with all their friends. You can help kids and young adults to a better outlook by involving them in ANY outdoor activity.
Thanks for the story, I truly respect you for getting kids involved.

[bob baldwin jr]

Probably the greatest joy has been watching some of the teenagers become men . Hard to understand the TOUGH times a kid has to go through living with a single mom . Yes we do have some great hunting times together ,But the Bonding time you can't put a price tag on . Very economically depressed in our area . Yet we CHALLENGE the kids to stay drug free , share with others, Hit the books hard . Just today I had a kid Tommy that I gave a pick-up truck to .I told him keep A's and B's on the report card for 2 years when you turn 16 I would give him my Spare Pick-up . Granted that was worth only about $1500 but 4 new tires , tuneup , and brake job , along with paying for his first years insurence really put a smile on he and his Moms face . The wife and I certainly think it was worth the investment . wait until my wife tells our son that next year the same challenge has been placed and his spare truck will be the next to go One day at a time . One step at a time .

[snowy river black and tan]

Looking good Jim, looks like a Bear pack to me That must be them two pups at the tree? Whos the sit down slobber mouth?

[elkheadb&t]

Thats jake siting down. The one in the middle is one of the young dogs she sure has been treeing hard.

[cat-n-round]

Jim,
couldn't be happier with my pup. she is showing some natural ability. good mouth, looks like she will tree hard with some more work, already pulling hair. worked out all the bob cat drags I have laid for her so far. my 7 year old son Jake is really wanting hounds of his own, just loves this pup "Plush", wants to go with black and tan. So, let me know if you have another litter.
Thanks again she is what you said she would be.

[elkheadb&t]

Glad to hear you Plush is coming along so good. I dont have anything going on more pups at this time but when I do I wll be sure to let you know. There is a guy that has some pups out of Jake but I beleive he is keeping them. Keep me posted on her progress. Jim

[Redwood Coonhounds]

Lookin' good!

I gotta agree the best thing in the world is coming over the ridge and seeing them dogs on the wood and a critter sittin' above there head. Even out cooning it's a great feeling to beat and crawl your way to the tree to see your pups blowing the top outta the tree. I also like taking people and introducing them to the sport. Seeing there reaction to there first tree is great!