Keep Dogs Hunt-Ready (Part III)

Veterinary science has likewise made some major improvements in the past 25 years with the development of more scientific knowledge about animal care in general and canine care in particular. Doctors of veterinary medicine know more about genetic flaws in dogs and how to treat and to avoid them in breeding programs. Hip dysplasia, for example, in all breeds of dogs is better understood and capable of being reduced as a problem if breeders will test for the disease and develop a responsible breeding program to avoid it.

Hunting Gear For Dogs
“Crates, Trailers, and Slide-In, Truck-Mounted, or SUV Mounted Boxes” In the past several decades, the means for confining and transporting while traveling down the road have greatly changed for the better. Portable, lightweight, and durable dog crates have been improved with new designs, materials, and construction to create products that are more functional and affordable. Likewise, dog trailers and truck-mounted boxes now days come in an increasing number of models that can hold a few dogs or as many as two dozen sometimes in heated or air conditioned comfort. And a multitude of boxes can be installed on ATVs to give yet another way for dogs to travel on the road or in the field. With these products comes more comfort and greater safety when dogs travel and with these advantages most dogs can be more productive during training sessions, in competitive events, and on hunting trips.

Accessories
Hunting gear for gun dogs has been in a state of constant progress in the past 25 years with all sorts of new products to help all breeds of canines to work harder, more safely, and more productively. For example, neoprene vests in a variety of designs have made any dog’s life more comfortable and with less danger in cold weather and freezing water. Likewise, dog blinds in the field, dog stands in water, and dog ladders in boats have made hunting in harsh conditions less stressful. At home the lives of our canines are also better because of new types of outside runs with kennel fencing that is stronger and made to last longer. Dog houses, likewise, have been changed with new designs and materials to make a dog’s time outdoors much healthier. And, in the house, the lucky house dog now has a variety of commercially made beds for lounging and sleeping.

Other updated accessories for hunting dogs can be seen in any dog supply catalogue or website that show wide choices of leads, leashes, whistles, gear bags, water and food dishes, identification collars, anti-barking collars, blank pistols for training, tick and flea repellant, shampoos, training bird carriers, pigeon and game bird pens, cedar ribbon dog bedding, and canine first aid kits.

Conclusion
This is a good time for dogs that hunt waterfowl. With all the progress in training programs and equipment, all the improvements in canine nutrition and health care, and all the good gear that has been devised for dogs, every new hunting season should just be getting better for all hunting dogs and their owners.

Source: WildFowlMag.com