Protect Yourself from Getting Struck by Lightening

Hunting dogs can get hurt when jumping into water. They can hit sharp jagged rocks, broken logs and sticks or even broken glass that a careless person tossed out. Discourage your hunting dog from taking a plunge into any creek, stream or water crossing. You can teach a dog caution when crossing watery paths by guiding the dog through a harmless shallow obstacle field underwater.

When you and your hunting dog get caught in a storm lightening is the enemy. When this happens, the number one thing to remember is not to be the tallest thing around. Don't stand next to a tall tree that can easily get struck by lightening because it is closer to the sky. Don't seek shelter in your tent, if you were camping out, because tent poles can get struck. Instead seek shelter inside your vehicle till the storm passes. Move to lower ground immediately if you are on a hillside or a high point.

If you are in a clearing or any area where you cannot seek shelter in a vehicle then lie flat on a sleeping bag, mattress or clothes to keep your feet insulated from any ground strike. Lightening can enter the body and explode through the feet. Sometimes lightening appears to strike up from the ground and can enter through the feet when it does. To protect you're hunting dog lie the dog on top of a sleeping bag, mattress or clothes and lie down over the dog. Do not try to suffocate or lie all your weight on top of the dog. Gently lie on top of the dog with enough force to hold the dog down without hurting it. The dog will be frightened in any storm. It would be best for the two of you to hold out inside your vehicle.