The SoCal NAVHDA chapter was originally formed by Bodo Winterhelt, the founder of NAVHDA. For a long time, it was the only NAVHDA chapter in Southern California.

 

After Bodo left NAVHDA, the chapter started to dissolve and other chapters were established, namely the San Diego Chapter and the Inland Empire Chapter.

 

In 1996, with 4 members, the new SoCal Chapter was formed to offer people living in Southern California easier access to training and testing. Prior to the chapter being formed, folks wanting to network with other dog and hunting enthusiasts had to travel to different locations all over California.

 

Since 1996, we have grown to over 90 members and evolved into a chapter that has seen many members and their dogs achieve success at all levels of NAVHDA testing including the Invitational.