Hunting in the field can be dangerous for both humans and dogs. Quarry is often unpredictable and harsh terrain presents unexpected hazards. You can ensure a safe and fun hunting experience for you and your dog by bringing along three crucial types of gear. Head into the great outdoors with confidence by fitting your dog with a GPS collar, ensuring safe transportation with a durable kennel and packing a well-stocked first aid kit.
Tracking Collar
In the heat of the chase, it’s easy to lose track of your dog. Thick brush and trees will quickly obscure your line of sight. Your dog may soon be lost in unfamiliar terrain. GPS-equipped tracking collars are essential to keep track of your dog in the field. Not only can you monitor the location of all of your pets, but you can also use tones and vibrations to signal your dog to return to you when needed. A good tracking collar will save you valuable time in the field. Instead of wasting time chasing down lost dogs, you can keep tabs on your dogs and enjoy the hunt. With a GPS collar, you can also redirect your dog away from dangerous roads and hazardous terrain.
Portable Kennel
When transporting your dog to and from your hunting site, it is essential to keep them safely secured in your vehicle. Each dog should be transported in a sturdy portable kennel. An animal securely lodged in a kennel will have more protection from injury if it is involved in an accident. There are a wide variety of portable kennels available, from the top-of-the-line Gunner G1 to standard plastic kennels. If you have a have a large pack of dogs you might even want to look into getting a dog trailer with separate compartments. Loose dogs who ride in your truck with no protection take up extra room that can be used for additional gear. They also scratch up your truck bed and railings, meaning you need protective truck bed rail caps to shield your truck. To preserve the condition of your truck and ensure the safety of your dogs, it’s best to opt for a kennel while traveling.
First Aid Kit
Dogs loves the thrill of the hunt, but this can often get them in trouble. They may not notice their surroundings and end up with injuries. That’s where you come in with your trusty canine first aid kit. You should pack the first aid kit with items that cover everything from minor cuts to gaping wounds. Typically, a canine first aid kit should include medical tape, gauze and bandages at minimum. You can use rubbing alcohol as a disinfectant or hydrogen peroxide. Hydrogen peroxide also acts as an emetic; if your dog eats something toxic in the woods, you can quickly induce vomiting with hydrogen peroxide. Many hunters prefer to use a collagen gel like EMT Gel or Collasate to protect cuts and scrapes. Superglue is also popular as it quickly closes small wounds in an emergency. Since dogs don’t always react well when they are in pain, you should also add a muzzle. Your kit should also include a pair of needle-nosed pliers and medical shears to cut bandages and remove sharp objects. No first aid kit is complete without Benadryl for allergic reactions and buffered aspirin for pain relief.
When you go out in the field, it’s important to plan ahead for you and your canine companion. Keeping your dog safe from aggressive animals, barbed plants and unforeseen dangers is possible with the right equipment. Whether you monitor your dog with a tracking collar, secure it during transport in a safe kennel or prepare for the unexpected with a complete first aid kit, you can ensure the health and happiness of your most valuable companion.
