How do I book training with Richard?

There is no online checkout. Richard's programs and weekly rates are published, but he talks with each owner first, because the right plan for a one-year-old Lab headed for the duck blind is not the right plan for an adult pointer that needs polish before pheasant season.

What Richard will ask

Have a rough answer to each before you call. Photos or a short video of the dog retrieving help if you have them, though they are not required.

• Your dog's age and breed
• What it does well and where it struggles
• Your goal: waterfowl, upland, hunt tests or handling
• Where you are in California, for drop-off and pick-up

What happens after the call

Richard sets the plan for your dog: which program, and where in its length your dog is likely to land. The programs' lengths and weekly rates are on the board-and-train page. He likes dogs on the books a month out, six weeks if you can, and his preferred drop-off days are Wednesday to Saturday. Ask on the call how he keeps owners posted.

Training takes place at Hastings Island Hunting Preserve in Rio Vista, and owners bring dogs from all over California. The Hastings Island page explains the setting, and the board-and-train page covers staying with Richard.

Hours to know before you drive out

Google lists Richard's hours as 8 AM to 2 PM Monday and Wednesday through Sunday, closed Tuesday. Call first; Richard sets drop-off times by phone, and Wednesday to Saturday are his preferred drop-off days. A call first also saves a wasted trip, since he may be out with dogs.