I have Springers and they are a handful. In light of your FIL's age, you might want to consider taking an older springer that's in need of a new home. There's nothing wrong with giving a dog that's a few years old a chance to please a new master - and at the same time spare your FIL all the nuances of dealing with a pup. The folks at Willamette Valley English Springer Spaniel Rescue are a great bunch and they get dogs in pretty regularly. I've personally dealt with Jan Martin but I'm sure anyone there could help you out.
Good luck to you and your FIL -
"CL"
http://www.wvessa.org/Rescue/index.html