ShootingUK is the complete shooting resource for the British shooting community. From shotgun licence and shotgun certificate information to gun reviews, game shooting, clay shooting and more.
By Paul Rawlings
Saturday, 29 March 2008
How should a young and keen spaniel be kept ready for the beating line next season? Paul Rawlings explains.
In the close season, what should I do to keep my young and keen spaniel ready for the beating line next season?
At the end of every season I give all my dogs a thorough health check, worm them and then build up any body weight that may have been lost during the rigours of working. This period of rest also allows the scars from briars fully to heal and, once health and vitality have been restored, it is a good idea to make sure the dog has plenty of mental and physical stimulation. This could simply be gained through exercise, but I prefer to use a course of refresher training to keep the animal alert and active, and to restore control fully.
If you are lucky enough to have access to some rabbit shooting during the close season, then the dog does not need to be left inactive for too long. Otherwise, the occasional visit to a rabbit pen will fulfil this contact with game. Mental stimulation is equally important for a dog’s well-being and the more the two of you interact during training and simulated shooting scenarios, the more prepared you both will be when the next gameshooting season begins.
Like this article? Mark this page on a social bookmarking website...
de.licio.us
reddit
digg
What are social bookmarking sites?
Remington shotgun: 44 years after it was first produced, Remington... Read more
M pond holds expensive koi carp. Recently a heron has been attacking t... Read more
A shooter from Cambridgeshire was recently arrested on suspici... Read more
Don't miss this week's issue (on sale Wednesday 1st February). FREE PRIZE DRAW - it is week 3 of our great "Gun a Week" competition, see P53 for further details and how to enter! Plus, who is top dog? Paul Rawlings reports on the 2012 Cocker Spaniel Championship. Get down to your newsagents and buy your copy today!
A legend in the shooting world, Shooting Times' much-loved column... Read more
Save up to 31% on a subscription to Shooting Times & Country Magazine, subscribe today and perfect gift this Christmas.
Comments