Hardworking bird dogs, should be fed a high-fat, high-protein performance formula to help maximize their training and conditioning and to help boost their metabolism and endurance.
Here are a few tips for bird hunters who travel with their hunting companions.
The time saved by knowing the closest veterinary options can make the difference in getting your hunting partner back in the field quicker, avoiding infection, or in a real emergency -- perhaps life and death.
Getting dogs in shape for fall hunting season and field trials involves six to eight weeks of a progressive exercise and conditioning program that builds up a dog’s muscle and cardiovascular systems.
Sporting dogs are at risk of decreased performance and health issues during hot weather conditions if not properly hydrated, regardless the length of exercise.
Owners should recognize signs of overheating so they can take steps to avoid potential health problems.
Subtle injuries, such as sore wrists, swollen joints and aching backs, are less obvious, but they, too, can impact a dog’s performance.
Savvy owners realize that the food a dog is fed during and between hunting and field trial seasons affects the dog’s endurance and even his mental focus. Ultimately, this may impact training and performance.
These stressors challenge dogs and potentially could shortchange their performance if not managed properly.
While we cannot stop an animal from aging, we can help reduce or delay some of the effects of aging.
Maintaining a hardworking dog in healthy body condition is critical to his health and performance in the field.
One underlying factor that can help optimize performance is food – or the nutrients a dog receives.