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The Deutsch Kurzhaar
or German Shorthaired Pointer used for hunting needs extra care. The hunting dog needs to be built up gradually. A dog that has been laying around for months should not be expected to perform well in the field.
DK's and GSP's need exercise and they need to be in top condition before the hunt. A healthy diet and a good exercise routine is a must for a dog that is expected to hunt all day alongside his
or her master. German Shorthaired Pointers
and DK's also need attention when hunting is over. They should be checked carefully for cuts and scratches, cracked pads, and debris that may have gotten into their eyes during the hunt. Also, ticks may be a problem. A complete check over after a long day of hunting is a good Idea. On warm days, wetting them down first and carrying water for them to drink while in the field is necessary. Remember, too, that dogs being hunted regularly during the season are burning a lot of calories, and they will require larger volumes of food. It's a good idea to spread this out over several small feedings a day.
It is always a good idea to carry a complete first-aid kit with anti-sting preventative should the unthinkable happen. In our field first aid kit, we also carry triple antibiotic ointment, ace bandages, gauze pads, tape, Popsicle sticks,
Benadryl, Nu-Skin, eye wash, sutures, a syringe or two full of Karo syrup, superglue, forceps, tweezers, anti-snake venom, and some other items. Your vet should be able to recommend the items that are the most practical for common emergencies in your area. Some folks put a vest on their DK's
and GSP's to prevent belly injuries from the brush, and/or boots on their dog to prevent pad injuries from rocks and tough ground. Your dog's needs will depend not only on him or her, but on the terrain
the two of you will be hunting.
It's also a good idea if you plan to hunt with your GSP
or DK, to have him/her vaccinated against Lyme's Disease, Rabies, and Giardia, and to give a regular heartworm preventative. Ask your vet for more information on these (and other) appropriate vaccines for hunting dogs.
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