Blogs / Fetch / Summer 2011 / Hunting Season Begins

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Fetch

For the Love of Pets

Hunting Season Begins

This week marks the beginning of Hunting Season, which can be a dangerous time for our K9 friends.  Whether your dog is bred to hunt or resembles our State’s famous potato parked on the couch, there are safety measures that should be taken seriously during this time.  Those most at risk are dogs that accompany hunters but your family pet can also be mistaken for game or seriously injured without some basic precautions.

If you live near BLM land and your dog is used to having the run of the woods, now is a good time to keep them fenced in. This is to prevent them from roaming too far and accidentally into a hunter’s sights. When walking anywhere other than highly traveled areas, it is a good idea to keep your dog on a leash to prevent them from heading into the wrong area. 

Consider putting a bright-colored vest, sweater or bandana on your dog.  This will identify him and will help make sure he is not mistaken for a hunted animal.  You can also add a bell to the collar to help identify him.  The collars and vests should be made of nylon or another material that will prevent burrs and foxtails from sticking.  Ketchum’s Thunderpaws Pet Shoppe has a great selection of safety-wear for your four-legged friend. 

It is especially important to protect your pet if they look like anything other than a friendly pet.  We all know what a Golden Retriever looks like and they are rarely considered a threat but not everyone knows your husky, who may resemble a wolf, is just as sweet and friendly.

As with any pet and any time of year, make sure he is vaccinated and has your current information on their tags.  You may also want to talk to your vet about getting your dog micro-chipped, in case he is ever lost.

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And if the worst does happen, have your local veterinarian’s number programmed in your phone and carry a small pet first aid kit with you.

A pet first aid kit should include:

• Latex gloves.
• Antibiotic ointment.
• Adhesive tape and bandage material.
• Sterile eyewash
• Compress or instant ice.
• Forceps to remove foxtails and/or porcupine quills.
• Blunt tip scissors.
• Neoprene socks or booties to protect pads from cuts.

Now get back out there and enjoy the Fall weather!