That does bring back memories Tessa. Don't despair - it will get better. I have been there many times when Maggie was younger. Almost like their eyes glaze over and they are on a different planet. I think keeping her on the lead when you and her are frustrated is not a good idea although there would be many to say otherwise. You obviously live in a gamey area which is always difficult. Can you take her anywhere where there is less scent around? If you can it would be a good place to practice recall away from home and garden. What you need is maybe a different word or sound that always means something really good when she comes. It has to be something that is even better than chasing those birds. Either a favourite toy or a favourite treat. When she comes she has to have the time of her life - play, praise and treats. Don't call her back when you are doing this to start with unless you are sure she will come back and don't say it more than once. If she doesn't come back the first time - no fun. Once she starts realising what she is getting for coming to this new call you can start trying it where there is more scent. It's a long-winded process I'm afraid and there is no fast and easy way to teach them but they do get there eventually. Maggie's obsession is the ball - I took them all away so made them even more special. She was only given it when she came back to me - then we had a game with it and then it went away. It took a while but I still keep it in my pocket now and have successfully called her away from deer and birds with it. I think Elspeth uses a Frisbee which is working well. It can be anything that she loves. Once you have found the perfect thing take it away and only let her have it now and again when you are playing with her so she associates it with you. If Evie is anything like Maggie food never worked - could be freshly cooked liver and still didn't want it on a walk. I had many frights with Maggie when she was young but they do know where you are and she will come back to you if you stay put.
As for the e collar - really don't like them. I think if they are going to be used it should be done by a professional - I certainly wouldn't try it myself.
