Fetch it up!

From the tips of their wet noses to the ends of their wagging tails, the dogs were positively aquiver with glee. Each waited its turn, waited for the blow of the duck call, the dead bird flying through the air and the shotgun blast. And then they were off.

The Midnight Sun Gundog Association's event last weekend appeared to be heaven on earth for the labs and golden retrievers who showed off their skills.

Dozens of dogs and their handlers from around the state met at a farm near Palmer to participate in field trials that included retrieving birds on land and water and quartering a field. The events were divided into groups based on the dog's abilities and experience -- started, intermediate and senior. Judges observed each dog's efforts and gave out passing or failing grades.

"What we try to do is simulate a hunting situation," said Tim Baker, who helped organize and judge the event.

During one trial, the dogs were to retrieve waterfowl from two separate locations in a field. In another, the dogs did a blind retrieve in a small pond, in which they did not see where the duck was dropped but instead had to rely on their noses and their handlers' cues to find it.

Unlike some field trials, these were noncompetitive, with each dog either passing or failing. The majority of the handlers who participated, according to organizers, use their dogs for hunting and are looking to improve their skills. Others show or breed their dogs and want to acquire the additional certificates of field trials.

In the Midnight Sun Gundog Association, the dogs do not have to be registered breeds, and anyone is welcome to join or observe the trials.

Throughout last weekend's event, judges and other experienced handlers gave out tips and advice to others with young dogs or little training experience.

More information about the association is available by calling Tim Baker at (907) 244-0655.