Fox Valley Retriever Club
Testimonials
Learn the rewards of joining Fox Valley Retriever Club by exploring our member's testimonials.
Member Since 2019
Dan Jurgens
"There are a large number of members with years of experience that are willing to help you. Organized group training allows one to work on their concerns but also see how other handlers address issues. I like that I can work with my dog in a controlled environment. Training sessions are organized and hunt tests allow for more learning opportunities"
Member Since 2021
Donald Schlomann
"As I travel around the country to different hunt tests, people always remark about how special FVRC is because of the training programs we offer for members. Our Tuesday, Thursday, and young dog training is unique. I have never seen it at any of the other retriever clubs "
Lifetime Member
Dean Muehlbauer
"I love hunting! Someone took me to a hunt test and when I saw the dog training I knew I wanted to try it. When I joined members helped me get started and I even learned from Pro Trainers. Now I am at the stage where I can give back."
Member Since 2018
Jennie Macaluso
"Great dogs! Great people! Great fun!"
Member Since 2019
Tony Fabian
"I am a member because of the access to the training grounds, conversations with like-minded people, and learning from people with more experience than myself. Someone should consider joining if they need access to a change of scenery when it comes to training grounds, or want to join a club that shares their knowledge and wants other members to achieve their goals with their retriever."
Member Since 2017
Dave Holland
"At her first hunt test, my dog would not pick up the bird. So I joined the club and learned so much from other members. The grounds we have are nice! If you’re looking to train your dog there’s plenty of guys that are more than willing to help."
Lifetime Member
Tom Mueller
"As a member for over 40 years, I've witnessed many positive changes and initially joined to simply exercise and practice retrieving with my dog. My journey evolved from a novice seeking basic training opportunities to successfully titling my dogs in hunt tests, thanks to the wealth of knowledge and consistent training sessions provided by the club."
Member Since 2020
Hunter Crass
"I was looking for some guidance on training dogs and my brother was a member so I was familiar with the club. The club introduced me to the world of dog training from a hunting standpoint Also, the member's access to fields that are set up for dogs of all levels, both on land and in water, is awesome!"
Member Since 2019
Rene Rokus
"I have learned a lot from members that have been training for a long time."
Member Since 2019
Nick Garcia
"I love hearing different perspectives on training; every dog is unique, and you can learn so much by observing others. Being part of the club has introduced me to amazing people united by our passion for seeing our dogs thrive in what they love doing."
Member Since 2010
Brian Schlomann
"After getting my first Chesapeake Bay retriever puppy I found Fox Valley Retriever Club. It also was a life-changing experience. The people we have met and friendships and the memories we have made we wouldn’t trade for anything. Whether it’s a hunting dog you want or a Master Hunter the mentors in the club are a terrific resource to help you along your journey to get to your destination."
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Member Since 2020
Julie Maringer
"Knowing nothing about hunt training or hunt tests, I found the FVRC's puppy sessions invaluable for getting started. The club has been perfect for building a strong bond with my dog, allowing her to thrive in her natural sport, and having a great time together."
Member Since 2022
Darrin Kmichik
I joined Fox Valley to train with a group of people who are knowledgeable in dog training. The great thing about Fox Valley is we train multiple times a week so it can fit into anyone’s schedule. It's also nice to see how training pays off when hunting with a well-trained bird dog.
Member Since 2016
Billy Crass
FVRC helped me accomplish all of the goals I initially had for my retriever. Regardless of what challenge you and your dog may be experiencing, someone in the club has overcome it and can offer suggestions and support. What I learned from the books I read and videos I watched does not compare to the knowledge I’ve gained from being a member of this club.
Member Since 2020
Bobby Cleveland
I read books, watched videos, and even bought online training programs but I was still not getting the results I wanted. Then I found FVRC and began making real progress thanks to the members at training days. They have been welcoming and genuinely want to see each other succeed. ​
Member Since 2011
Paul Smith
I started out looking for help with training, and exposure to the hunt test world. What made it easy was access to property, birds, equipment, and the experience of other members. I’ve als developed great friendships and had some great hunts both in and out of state with those friends. On top of this the club hosts some of the best hunt tests in the state.
Member Since 2012
Chris Hansen
I found FVRC when I received my first dog. I showed up to a group training day one Saturday and have been a member ever since. The organized training days are something other clubs do not offer. The knowledge in the club is almost unbelievable and members are always willing to help and have all been in the same boat when it comes to dog issues. Made a lot of friends and my wife and children love joining the events too!
Lifetime Members
Roger & Kathy Quaas
Joined the club in 2002 with my yellow lab, Oakley, and quickly saw success, qualifying and passing Master Nationals multiple times, and even achieving a place in the MN Hall of Fame with Oakley and later titles with her son, Shortie, and my current dog, Ziggy. Beyond competing, I've been actively involved in club operations, from kitchen duties to field setup and serving as a board member and HT coordinator.