Ask The Vet RadioShow Notes

Show #: 06-109

Show Description: “Sporting with Animals ”

Audio Files: ATVR-06-109.mp3, ATVR-06-109.wma

This week’s Ask The Vet Radio featured animals in sports.  SportDOG Pro Staff Member and nationally known professional sporting dog trainer Tom Dokken called in to talk about the training of hunting dogs.  Dr. Mike Jones from the University of Tennessee College of Veterinary Medicine joined us in-studio to talk about the sport of falconry.   

Show Notes and Resources:

  • SportDOG Pro Staff Member and nationally known professional sporting dog trainer Tom Dokken joined us by telephone to discuss hunting dogs. 
    • The training for hunting dogs begins with a 2 week course when the dogs are 5 months old.  This age is the most appropriate because though the dogs have reached a level of maturity, they are young enough to be taught.  This 2 week course builds enthusiasm and introduces the canines to birds and guns properly.  If the introduction of guns is not done properly, the dog may develop a fear of guns that can prove to be irreversible.  After the 2 week period, owners take the animals home with training instructions until they are 8-10 months of age.  The dogs then return for the second part of the program which takes 10-12 weeks for obedience and control.   
    • Purchasing a dog specifically for hunting plays an important part in the training process.  Mr. Dokken explained that hunters should evaluate what type of game they will primarily hunt before selecting a breed.  Also, bloodlines are very important for working dogs.  To ensure the dog has good bloodlines, listeners can research the field trial backgrounds of a specific animal and look for letters in front of the name including FC (field champion), MH (master hunter), and AFC (amateur field champion) or ask a professional trainer for help.  Even if the hunting will not be for competition, hunters want an animal with training ability.
    • Hunting dogs can be pets.  It is a common misconception that hunting dogs should not be allowed in the house like a regular pet.  Hunting dogs still need everyday attention which provides an important bonding time with their owners.  Owners need to find a balance between outdoor training activities and indoor activities to maintain the dog’s hunting instincts. 
    • To learn more information on Tom Dokken, hunting dog training, or the SportDOG Brand, go to www.dokkensoakridgekennels.com, www.deadfowltrainer.com, or www.sportdogbrand.com.
  • Associate Professor in Avian and Zoological Medicine at the University of Tennessee College of Veterinary Medicine Dr. Mike Jones joined us in-studio to talk about the sport of falconry.
    • Falconry is the sport of hunting with falcons for smaller animals such as squirrels, rabbits, and ducks.  Once the falcon has caught or killed the smaller game, dogs can retrieve the game.  The falcons are free throughout this process, relying on the training to bring them back to the falconer once the hunting is over.
    • The difference between falcons and hawks: Hawks are usually larger in size with a longer tail.  Falcons have a smaller body with pointed wings and a notch on their beak for killing prey.
    • To take up the sport of falconry, one needs to be sure of the daily commitment of inhabiting and training a falcon.  Interested listeners can get information from the State Conservation Agency and must apprentice for 2 years alongside a professional falconer.  Then one must acquire an appropriate living area and equipment for the animal, pass an inspection, and ultimately receive a state and federal permit.  Falconers usually capture their own birds of prey, but one must be aware of the rules, regulations, and dangers involving this before proceeding. 
    • If you find an injured bird of prey, scoop the animal into a towel and put it into a closed box with air holes to ensure the safety of the bird and yourself until you can find help.
  • Question of the week: What’s your funniest holiday pet mishap?  Email your answers to drtracydewhirst@askthevetradio.com and the winner will receive an Ask The Vet Radio prize package!