Early hunting seasons are a month away. For hunters and their dogs, now is the time to listen to the ball games on the radio and get ready for days in the field. Ruth Ann Lobos, DVM, shares good advice to acclimate and condition dogs before opening day:
- Refine their off-season nutrition plan
- Take inventory and refresh the first aid kits (for dogs and hunters alike)
- Schedule a veterinary checkup
- Increase exercise and conditioning
- Stimulate their brain
Hunter preparation is equally important. Be sure to update emergency information and contacts for the hunter and dog. Also, update the dogs’ microchip information. When the season starts, share where you’re going.
Source: Gun Dog, July 30, 2025. Link.
Address any health issues, fine-tune nutrition, and refresh foundational training in the off-season to set up conditions that maximize the season from opening day to closing weekend.”
Image: Link.