Gone To The Dogs - The Amazing Little Ann
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This episode of 'Gone to the Dogs' dives deep into the legendary run of Willie's Little Ann, a female coonhound who has become a phenomenon in the competitive coon hunting world. Host Steve Fielder interviews the core team behind her success: John Strickland, Ashley Oxendine, and Randy Smith, with Doug Galbraith mentioned as a key partner. The conversation reveals the dog’s journey from a relatively unknown pup bred by Nicholas Jones and sired by Graves Rackham Willie, to a record-breaking champion who has won over $402,000 in prize money across major events including the PKC World Championship, UKC World Hunt, and multiple truck and four-wheeler hunts. The hosts emphasize that her success isn’t just talent—it’s the result of relentless dedication, meticulous training, and a unique partnership built on trust and friendship. John Strickland shares how he trained her to return within a mile, ensuring she never got out of pocket, while Ashley and Randy highlight her uncanny focus, heart, and ability to perform anywhere. Despite multiple high-profile offers—including a $150,000 cash bid—her owners remain resolute: no amount of money can buy her. The episode closes with heartfelt reflections on loyalty, brotherhood, and the joy of the sport, underscoring that Ann’s story is far from over.
Willie's Little Ann has won over $402,000 in prize money and multiple world championships, including PKC and UKC titles.
Her success is due not just to natural ability but to relentless training, strategic hunting, and a deep partnership between John Strickland, Ashley Oxendine, Randy Smith, and Doug Galbraith.
John Strickland trained her to return within a mile, ensuring she never lost focus—key to her consistency in high-pressure events.
Despite multiple offers, including $150,000 in cash, the team refuses to sell her, valuing loyalty and friendship over money.
The dog’s ability to perform consistently across diverse terrains—from cold water in January to deep southern swamps—sets her apart as a true 'freak' of the sport.
…and 3 more takeaways available in PodZeus
Sponsor Intro & Ann's Rise to Fame
The episode opens with a sponsor message from Interstate Batteries, followed by Steve Fielder introducing the legendary coonhound Willie's Little Ann and the elite team behind her—John Strickland, Ashley Oxendine, and Randy Smith. Fielder sets the stage for a deep dive into Ann’s record-breaking run and the partnership that made it possible.
The Origin of the Partnership
John Strickland recounts how the partnership began with a phone call after he bought his first dog, Country. The story unfolds with the early days of the group, including the purchase of Lady, the first major success, and the gradual inclusion of Doug Galbraith and Randy Smith, all bound by friendship and shared passion.
How Ann Was Found & First Wins
“She was at 63 in a row. Really? She'll be able to win. I said, I don't know. And I hung up the phone and I sit there and I'm like, dude, you gotta get this dog ball. This is like This is not normal, you know.”
The Science of Success: Training & Dedication
“When she gets about a mile, you know, I had it where I could get around on my buggy. And I would let her go about a mile, and I'd get in front of her. And I'd turn her butt around, and I'd send her right back through where she come from.”
Ann’s Unmatched Consistency & Travel Ability
“You take me to that water, and she's going to beat you. But I'm like, we'll go wherever y'all little hearts want to go. And we go over there. And in the first eight minutes, this thing, they're out there tiptoeing on lily pads, these other three. And she has struck this track, drove it across the road 100 feet from us, wham, jammed up an oak tree, and it's over with it.”
“Don't you forget, John Strickland, no amount of money can buy my dog. Don't be calm bullying me around your wallet.”
“There's very few men in my life that have said to me multiple times, hey, I love you and don't you forget it. Very few that I thought was sincere.”
“You take me to that water, and she's going to beat you. But I'm like, we'll go wherever y'all little hearts want to go. And we go over there. And in the first eight minutes, this thing, they're out there tiptoeing on lily pads, these other three. And she has struck this track, drove it across the road 100 feet from us, wham, jammed up an oak tree, and it's over with it.”
Host
Guests
Willie's Little Ann
other
Steve Fielder
person
John Strickland
person
Ashley Oxendine
person
Randy Smith
person
Doug Galbraith
person
Graves Rackham Willie
other
PKC World Championship
other
Suzanne
person
UKC World Hunt
other
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