The GSP I got from him almost 5 years ago is the best dog I've ever hunted behind. If you look at my response from a few year's back I too ran into some health issues. You know it's funny because mine is an absolute coward too. He doesn't like loud noises and is on the submissive side to says the least. Although, once I get him in a field it's honestly like a different dog. He becomes secure and ready to work hard, I mean totally different dog. I hope yours does the same. Sorry to hear about the issues, when the time comes maybe I'll look other places. Strange how my dog and your dog is skittish....