Cooling down your French Brittanys in hot weather hunts or training

When we run NSTRA trials, there are always water buckets out on the course both to cool your dog down and to let them hydrate during their brace. In UKC field trials the judge often encourages you to water your dog during a brace and you get in the habit of carrying water bottles and collapsible dishes.

When I go on hot weather hunts I always pack water for me and the dogs which is made easier with a browning Bird’n’lite vest or a final rise which is almost all I use anymore.

At camp I always have a big water bucket they can drink out of or dunk themselves in as well but I saw a great new idea on a youtube video I was watching and wanted to share it for cooling dogs down as well.

Keep in mind these are things we do for normal cooling, in an emergency these things help but there are more important life saving measures you must do for heat stroke or severe heat exhaustion. Always have rubbing alcohol with you in your dog first aid kit not just for cleaning cuts and scrapes and the like, but rubbing alcohol on the pads of the feet, the ears and the belly can help cool the core of an overheated dog quickly and potentially save a life.

Cooling Down Your French Brittany: The Benefits of Using a Weed Sprayer

As the sun beats down on a hot summer day, there’s nothing more satisfying than watching your French Brittany flawlessly execute their hunting skills. However, with the thrill of the hunt comes the responsibility of ensuring your dog stays cool and healthy in the heat. In this article, we’re exploring an innovative solution that can make a world of difference – a weed sprayer.

Understanding Dogs’ Physiology and Heat Regulation

Before we dive into the wonders of weed sprayers, let’s take a moment to understand how dogs cope with heat. Unlike humans who sweat through their skin, dogs primarily regulate their body temperature through panting¹. They breathe in cooler air and expel hot air, helping them maintain a steady internal temperature². However, factors such as obesity, genetics, and heart disease can predispose dogs to heatstroke³.

The Need for Cooling Down After Hunting

After a long hunt, it’s crucial to help your Brittany cool down. While offering them a bowl of water to drink is essential, it may not be enough to lower their body temperature effectively. Traditional methods like hoses can be cumbersome, especially if you’re out in the field. That’s where the weed sprayer comes in handy.

The Efficiency of a Weed Sprayer

A weed sprayer offers a portable, efficient, and convenient solution to cool down your dog. It’s lightweight, easy to carry, and can hold enough water to drench your dog, aiding in the cooling process. Moreover, the pressure can be adjusted to ensure a gentle spray that won’t startle or discomfort your Brittany. Because it sprays a fine mist it evaporates quickly helping the excess heat dissipate.

How to Use a Weed Sprayer Effectively

1. Fill the Weed Sprayer: Start by filling the weed sprayer with cold water. If possible, add a few ice cubes to keep the water cool for longer.

2. Adjust the Pressure: Adjust the pressure to ensure a gentle, even spray. Remember, the goal is to cool down your dog, not to startle them with a high-pressure jet of water.

3. Spray Your Dog: Start spraying your dog from the back, moving towards the front. Make sure you cover all areas, especially the underbelly, which can retain more heat.

4. Let the water evaporate

Potential Limitations

While a weed sprayer is an effective tool, it’s important to remember it’s not a substitute for veterinary care. If your dog shows signs of overheating such as excessive panting, elevated heart rate, and weakness¹, seek immediate veterinary attention.

In Conclusion: Prioritizing Your Dog’s Health in Hot Weather

Taking care of our hunting companions in hot weather is paramount. While their natural mechanisms help them cope with heat to an extent, our intervention can make a significant difference. A weed sprayer offers a practical and efficient way to cool down your French Brittany after a hunt, helping them stay healthy and ready for your next adventure together.