October - 2009

It’s hard to believe that another summer has just passed. As I write this I am packing for an Elk hunt in Colorado and I get back the day coon season opens. Yesterday I had to have my four year old redbone Sam put to sleep. He had developed bone cancer in his pelvis. All of us have lost dogs to accidents, illness and just old age but it’s still never easy especially when that dog is in his prime and doing a nice job.

With the onset of hunting season I just want to remind everyone to get out there and get your permission slips signed for that land you intend on hunting. Even if you have always had permission in the past it means a lot to stop in and just renew that approval. If your dogs happen to get on land that you do not have permission to be on DO NOT go on without talking to the landowner and if he will not let you retrieve your dog ask if an ECO could accompany you. If you are doing everything right but still have a problem the outcome is always better if you are the one who calls the ECO.

We are currently having discussions with NYS Ag & Market on the “Pet Dealer Law” as many of you know, HSUS and others have been pushing for tighter controls and to broaden the definition of what a “pet dealer” is. Unlike in the past we have at least been invited to the table for our input. We will be teaming with the Association of Dog Clubs of New York, the Dog Federation of New York, and the Fox Hunter of New York to try to prevent any further infringement on your ability to house and perpetuate your desired line of hunting dogs.

In closing take the time to get a new young lad or lady involved in your hunt they are the future of our sport. Not only will you be doing your part to preserve this important part of our heritage but you will also find it extremely rewarding.