What hunter doesn’t think that his or her gundog is the best? Such assessments are based on performance, of course, but they also factor in pride and, let’s face it: love. So when it comes time to buy gear for these “top dogs,” it makes sense that only the best will do. This collection of items will serve dogs and their owners in the field and beyond.
The new Gunner Bumper is no ordinary dummy. Made of the company’s proprietary rubber compound, DuraTrieve, the bumper resists dirt buildup, doesn’t easily absorb water and is a snap to clean. The tapered design promotes proper hold positioning in the middle, and venting channels provide maximum breathability for the dog. A removable cap allows for inserting bird wings, feathers, scent or weights into the hollow body. The removable and replaceable rubber throw rope can be adjusted in length, and a hex design at the rope’s end gives the trainer two grip positions and aids in carrying multiple bumpers. Dimensions: 10½" (l) x 2½" (w). Weight: 9 oz. Colors: Orange, White, Flasher (Black & White). Price: $30.
Gunner, gunner.com.
For those who prefer to keep kennels inside their trucks, the Ruff Land Backseat Rider is designed specifically to fit on the floor behind the front seat (with the backseat folded up) or directly on the backseat. (Two Backseat Riders can fit end-to-end in most pickups.) The kennel is made of food-grade polyethylene, and the sides are tapered so that vent holes can’t get plugged if the kennel is slid next to a flat-sided object. A raised floor allows liquids or debris to be channeled away from the dog. The kennel comes with two carry handles, and the ambidextrous door can be adjusted to swing either way. Exterior measurements: 277/8" (l) x 20" (w) x 23¼" (h). Colors: Whitestone 2.0, OD Green, Millstone (shown). Price: $292 (optional no bottom vent holes $10).
Ruff Land, rufflandkennels.com.
Designed in conjunction with North American Rescue, which sells first-response kits to law-enforcement canine handlers, the Wildrose Field First Aid Kit contains items that can be used for both dogs and humans. It comes in a vacuum-sealed (resealable after opening), waterproof pack that will fit easily into a hunting vest, blind bag or backpack. Some of the items included in the kit are: a Combat Application Tourniquet (CAT); splinter forceps; trauma shears; an irrigation syringe; an emergency survival blanket; and various bandages, dressings and gauze. Price: $90.
Wildrose Trading Co., wildrosetradingcompany.com.
For cold-weather or -water work, the ReKoile Sure Fit Dog Vest will keep your partner warm and comfortable. Made of lightweight 5mm neoprene, the vest has hook-and-loop adjustments on the shoulders, back and sides that provide a snug fit. The vest can also be trimmed around the legs for maximum comfort. An abrasion-resistant chest and bellyplate offers additional protection, and a handle with a D-ring can easily be tucked away in the field. Color: Mossy Oak Bottomland. Sizes: XS through XXL. Price: $60.
ReKoile Outdoors, rekoileoutdoors.com.
ORVIS RECOVERYZONE TOUGHCHEW COUCH DOG BED
After a long day in the field, your dog will appreciate relaxing in Orvis’s RecoveryZone ToughChew Couch Dog Bed. Inside is a 4" medium-density foam base with a 1" Serene Foam top layer—offering comfort and support by distributing weight and reducing pressure points on joints and muscles. Outside is a washable, chew-resistant cover made of human-grade upholstery bonded to a ripstop-nylon base; brass hardware; and a hidden zipper and handles, eliminating “chew targets.” The bed’s three-sided, solid-foam bolster is gently sloped, to support the dog’s head. A water-resistant liner is made of recycled polyester. Colors: Brown (shown), Slate, Granite, Khaki. Sizes: S through XL. Price: starting at $304 (optional embroidery $20).
Orvis, orvis.com.
Let’s face it: Not everyone keeps his or her dog in a crate while traveling. For car, truck or SUV owners who let their dogs ride in the backseat or even shotgun, the WeatherTech Seat Protector helps keep leather or fabric clean and scratch-free. Made from a polycotton twill fabric with a water-repellent finish, the Seat Protector is machine washable and features a nylon lining for added “insurance.” Straps, specialty inserts and a non-slip bottom help keep it in place. The Protector fits most bench and bucket-style seats, although the seats must have headrests. Center seatbelts will not be accessible. Colors: Grey (shown), Charcoal, Tan, Cocoa. Sizes: 6 “semi-custom” sizes will fit most vehicles. Price: front bucket seat ($150), rear bench seat ($190).
WeatherTech, weathertech.com.
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