Hunting season is upon us. I know not everyone has a hunting dog, but if you do, here are some reminders to keep your dog healthy and safe.
First exercise your dog regularly, and start early before the big day. Just like us, conditioning for an athletic event takes time and practice. Think of it like training camp for dogs.
Watch your dog’s weight. It is easy for athletic dogs (and people) to get heavy in the off season. But I have also seen a lot of hunting dogs that are always thin, and get thinner while hunting and running. Strive for an optimum weight.
Visit your veterinarian to make sure your hunting buddy is up to date on vaccines and heartworm prevention. Have a conversation with your vet around possible disease risks in the region you are traveling too. We may not have it in Lewisville, but we are trained to discuss diseases in other parts of the state or country. Plus often your dog will be around other dogs and wildlife.
Talk to your vet about fleas and ticks. Hunting dogs are a higher risk to encounter these nasties, and the diseases (Rocky Mountain Spotted Fever, Ehrlichia and Lymes) they may carry. I especially like the oral systemic flea and tick medicines like Credelio, Nexgard and Bravecto.
Lastly, think about safety gear for your dog. A reflective collar with ID is a minimum. A blaze orange vest is a good item. And it is always a good idea for dogs to be microchipped, especially valuable ones. Always carry a first aid kit, with simple things like tweezers, eye saline rinse, gauze, Neosporin, Benadryl, honey packet and tape. And it wouldn’t be crazy to research the contact info on a vet who sees emergencies in you hunting area, “just in case”.
For more hunting info- https://www.avma.org/public/Health/Pages/Disease-Precautions-for-Hunters.aspx
