Gundog Journal

During the course of my work I come across many interesting individuals. Their stories have an application to the wider working dog community. I was pleased to be asked by the editor of Gundog Journal, a prestigious magazine published by Fieldsports Emporium, to share my experience of working with owners and handlers who have significant health barriers to overcome. This can include physical disabilities or mental health issues. You can read the full article in Issue 6 of Gundog Journal – available here.

One of the examples I use in the article is Sam, who I have blogged about in the past. Sam has cerebral palsy but that has not stopped him from working his Springer Spaniel, Harry. This is the result of my ability to adapt training techniques to accommodate his physical constraints.

Whatever the health issue, I have seen the benefits of gundog training so many times. Here’s a snippet from the article:

Don’t Accept Defeat – Gundog Journal Issue 6

In my experience, there is very little that dog ownership can’t cure. Broken hearts, obesity, social anxiety, high blood pressure, grief – dogs should come as an NHS prescription. One of the joys of dog ownership is that it’s sociable. Whether it’s working your dog on a shoot or exercising them in the park, dog owners talk to one another. You have to leave the house to take your dog out so isolation is tackled on a daily basis. You should walk with your dog at least twice a day so that’s your daily steps taken care of, plus fresh air and hopefully, a little sunlight. If you have the bond with your dog that every handler should have, you will have a companion that is always pleased to see you. They are known as best friends for a reason.

It’s good to see that week after week, the owners who come to me with the world on their shoulders gradually lift their heads. They see the potential in their dog and that gives them a focus. They feel fitter and more able to enjoy their country pursuits. There is something to strive for, an achievement on the horizon. The country sports community has an important role to play in using these benefits for the wellbeing of a wider audience. The more we diversify, the more we attract those not traditionally associated with field sports, the more people will benefit from this lifestyle that we enjoy.

 

Posted: March 3, 2020