Bringing your dog on an out-of-state hunting trip

Although we are right in the middle of another sweltering summer, it won’t be long before we take to the fields, woods and marshes to pursue ducks, geese, quail and other game birds.

We’ve all dreamed of taking a trip for a change of scenery and maybe bag a certain species to put on the wall or check off the list. I’ve been fortunate to hunt in Texas, Oklahoma, Arkansas, Tennessee and Mississippi, but still want to take some shots in Canada, the Dakotas and California’s Central Valley.

Regardless of the destination, it takes some consideration to put a trip together, so don’t overlook anything before heading out.

With air travel becoming more and more of a nightmare, maybe think twice about flying. Checking guns and gear is a hassle and that increases when flying a dog.

With delays and cancellations more prevalent, you wouldn’t want to get stranded in an airport with your dog. Speaking from experience, when airports start having issues, especially in winter, nearby hotels book up quickly. Even if a room can be found, it may not allow pets. If you are considering flying, check with your airline well in advance to avoid any problems.

Driving takes longer but might be the better option. You’ll likely be going with friends or family so split the driving up, see the sites, eat some good grub along the way and make it all part of the experience.

What to bring

When packing, food, water, bowls, collars, vests, leashes and medications are givens, but be sure to include other essentials such as first aid kits, towels and kennel covers for cold weather.

Up-to-date vaccination records, especially for rabies, are a must, and required when crossing into Canada. According to AAA, clearing customs into Canada requires a veterinarian-signed record with age, sex and breed listed along with the vaccination proof. Rabies tags won’t suffice. Reputable U.S. and Canadian outfitters require them as well to protect both their dogs, and guest’s dogs.

Be sure to save the phone number, address and clinic hours of a veterinarian in the area in your phone in case of injury or illness to save time in an emergency. Outfitters are good sources, but if hunting on your own, a quick web search and phone call will do.

On the road, stop every few hours to let the dog stretch, drink some water and relieve itself. Book a pet friendly hotel on the way and where you’ll be hunting in advance. Some charge a fee or have size restrictions so check the website or call the hotel directly.

I travel with my Lab often, so she’s accustomed to hotel rooms. I’m fine leaving her in the room to go eat or run to the store. If you’re unsure about yours, a collapsible wire crate isn’t a bad idea. If the dog is going to stay outside, have it in a secure kennel or dog box outside your room. Be mindful of other guests, especially if your dog tends to bark. Very few folks want to hear that all night.

Working with an outfitter

Roland Cortez has guided hunters for 29 years in Arkansas, Virginia and Louisiana, with the last few for Dave’s Bayou Lodge and Outfitters in Mangham, La. He offered some insight.

“Be sure the outfitter will allow you to bring your dog,” he said. “Some won’t due to liability issues but many allow it if you’re in a private group. On the other hand, a mixed group is where hunters don’t all know each other so some outfitters won’t allow hunters to hunt a dog in that group in case it can’t or won’t perform.”

Who wouldn’t be ticked if a dog another hunter brought ruined the hunt? Guides have top notch dogs that pick up thousands of birds in their careers. It adds to the workload if a guide must deal with a dog that’s not up to the job. Many guides will be up front and tell the hunter they won’t pick up the birds since they have a capable dog in the truck.

“If an outfitter is providing lodging, ask about kennel space for the dog and let them know one is coming,” Roland said. “Most hunting dogs are sociable, but males can get aggressive. If you have a female in heat, do not bring her. It’ll drive the intact males crazy, cause a ruckus and end up ruining a blind if male dogs hunt it the next day.”

Taking our dogs along on a hunting trip is extra work but well worth it if planned properly and worked out with your outfitter and hunting partners. I know most of us can’t stand the thought of leaving them at home. They’ve earned it, so load ‘em up when you can!

The post “Bringing your dog on an out-of-state hunting trip” first appeared on LouisianaSportsman.com.