There is no thrill so fine
As to release a derby you
Have bred and raised from a pup
In its first field trial stake
Watch it cast to the front
Hunt in yonder to a ridge
Turn to see you here behind
Then cast on in glee to find
Birds to point and hold —
For an instant
Then as fall falls away
Into winter as it grows
Into a muscled real bird dog
And stays longer at its finds
Lets you walk in front to flush
Finally watches birds fly away
Stays put to get your praise
Earned by learning what you want
How long will it take
You never know until it’s done
But when it is you can take pride
In your journey with your pup