Dogs Get the Hunter and Not the Bird

Team JustNorth posted on November 05, 2008 11:20 :: 1478 Views

Whether flushing a pheasant or grouse from the bush or retrieving a duck from a slough, few things are as enjoyable as watching a hunting dog at work. These are the moments that truly reveal a dog’s training and character Unfortunately, dogs can also sometimes cause safety concerns.

Minnesota Department of Natural Resources (DNR) officials said dogs caused three
non-fatal hunting accidents last fall. They recommend hunters never leave or set down a loaded gun around man’s best friend.

“Many times the dog is so excited about the hunt or game they have just retrieved that they start jumping all around and accidentally step on the safety and then, jumping again, they discharge the firearm,” said Capt. Mike Hammer, DNR Education Program coordinator. “Unfortunately, the dog got the hunter and not the bird.”

The three non-fatal accidents were:

A grouse hunter was admiring his success when his excited dog jumped on the shotgun discharging shotgun pellets into the hunter’s legs.
A hunter was shot in the thigh when his dog stepped on the trigger while the man was pulling his boat up on shore after duck hunting.
After a pheasant hunter put his gun down, the dog stepped on the trigger discharging some pellets into the man’s legs.

“Every hunter assumes an incredible responsibility when he or she picks up a sporting firearm and heads afield. That applies to those hunting with dogs as well,” Hammer emphasized.

Hammer said basic obedience should be an integral part of dog training before going afield. Heel, sit, stay, whistle, and steadying drills should all be addressed.

Hammer also had these hunting safety tips:

always point the muzzle of the firearm in a safe direction
treat every firearm with the same respect you would show a loaded gun
be sure of your target and what is in front of and behind your target
unload and safely store firearms when not in use
handle firearms and ammunition carefully
never climb a fence or tree, or jump a ditch or log with a loaded firearm
carry the firearm safely, keeping the safety on until ready to shoot
never point a firearm at anything you do not want to shoot
don’t drink alcohol or take mood-altering drugs before or while handling firearms
be aware of other circumstances that require added caution or safety awareness, such as poor weather, hunting from a boat or blind, or when handling firearms around others, including your dog.