Shell grew up in South Central Wisconsin as an avid outdoorsman, hunting large and small game, migratory birds as well as upland hunting, fishing and trapping. The outdoors has always been an important part of Shell’s life.

Over the past 10 years, a passion developed for upland hunting and Pointing Labrador Retrievers. Stumbling onto a website in 2002, and a trip to Kansas for a puppy, the introduction to “Pointing Labradors” was born with “Danner”. Only in hindsight was it realized what he was, and the incredible natural talents he had. Only since his passing, did Shell become aware of the American Pointing Labrador Association (APLA) and the passion that surrounds the special talents of this breed.

The cornerstone dog to replace Danner is 4xGMPR Cruz’s Magic “Koda”, the sequel. Through ups and downs and a very steep learning curve, Koda has turned out to be as exceptional as Danner. In just a few short years, Shell and his wife have become a six dog, small family breeder, and amateur trainers. They strive for the exceptional versatile dog that will not only be your best hunting partner in the upland or on water, but also trustworthy, loving companion, capable of playing any of the hunt test games.

Shell is active in training and handling his own dogs, as well as helping other newbies during informal training day get togethers. Shell is a supporter of the Heartland Pointing Labrador Retriever Labrador Club, the Rocky Mountain Pointing Labrador Club and currently a Director on the APLA Board. He is an active hunt test judge within the organization as well.

This passion has turned into many new lifelong friends. They look forward to meeting many more as their experience grows into other venues.