It's really hot down here in Texas in the summer months! What little running we do is in the early hours of morning and at night. In this article I want to go over a few things hunters can do in preparation for hunting rabbits in the Fall and Winter.

First, keep your rabbit dogs in top shape. Most hunters feed a high quality dog food to their hounds during rabbit season. I'm talking about 26 or 27% protein with 12 to 16% fat. This is recommended for active hounds. Since your hounds are less active in the Summer months, I recommend you cut back to at least 22% protein with less fat. If you don't have a lot of kennel space, be sure to exercise those beagles. You don't want to go into the hunting season with over weight hounds. Spray your kennel for fleas and make sure your hounds have their booster shots, and keep them wormed. If you have some young hounds, the off season is a good time to break them from running deer. I use the Beagler made by Tritronics. Two or three training sessions according to backwoods rules should deer proof them. A rabbit hunters nightmare is for his hound or hounds to jump a deer on opening morning of rabbit season. Believe me! I've been there a few times.

Second, take advantage of the off season to scout out new territory. This will keep you in good shape as well. As you walk though the fields or woods watch for rabbit droppings. Find those rabbits! You may even want to practice your aim on a shooting range, especially if you hunt with a 22 rifle. Those of us who hunt with shotguns, really don't need practice because we never miss. Ha! Don't believe that for a minute! I go through at least a box of 20 gauge shells during the off season, and I still miss a few shots while hunting.

Third, make sure all your hunting gear is in top shape. Give your gun a good cleaning. Spray out your dog box with disinfectant. Replace some dog collars and name tags. Change out worn snaps on your dog leashes. Make sure you have a hot battery and good tires on you hunting truck. Purchase needed hunting items such as camo wear, boots, shells and such. And, don't wait till opening morning to buy a hunting license.

Most of the above and more seasoned hunters are fully aware of, but if you're like me it helps to be reminded.

Lamar Denby
Sanders Creek Beagles
http://www.lamardenby.org/beagles.htm