Basset Babbler
Welcome to the Basset Babbler.
The Basset Babbler is back and now it's online. If you know the history of field trialing with basset hounds, you know that before computers a little publication existed among basset hound field trailers called The Basset Babbler, in short The Babbler. This publication contained all the essential information one would need to participate in basset hound field trials and ensure information about quality breeding animals was shared.
The Basset Babbler included the field trial schedule, field trial results, directions to field trial grounds, health information, club news, awards, reports from the FTAC chairman, changes in AKC rules and procedures (see note below), and more. This Babbler website similarly serves as a repository for all things field trial for bassets.
For anyone who has found themselves with an AKC registered basset hound and an interest in experiencing time in the field with your hound, you are welcome to join us at a field trial or reach out to other field trialers.
Historical Note: Did you know that women were approved to serve as AKC delegates in March 1974? An earlier vote had failed in December 1973.
Field trials require...
- basset hounds!
- An AKC registered hound (no PAL)
- spayed/neutered can participate
- a team to coordinate and run the event
- an event venue
- authorized public lands with rabbit habitat
- a beagle club
- a water supply
- shelter for humans and hounds
- the right equipment - a field appropriate collar and release lead
- judges
- most important: rabbits
Most field trials happen on fully fenced grounds. The grounds are managed for the health and wellness of wild rabbits. At this time, all clubs east of the Mississippi River have fully fenced grounds. A few clubs west of the Mississippi River are fenced too.
