Dear Editor:

Hunting dogs are often abandoned or killed by their owners because they could be gun-shy, often get sidetracked, or might not retrieve game. Instead of repurposing the dog for something else, or even just converting it into a house pet, hunters kill and abandon their dogs. This could be because continuing to care for their dog would be expensive, training it for something else would be hard, and giving it away might take too much time.

The director of All Points West German Shorthair Rescue stated that, “These dogs are special because they love people. Dogs left to their own devices by the people they trust often create food aggression and abandonment fears. Fortunately, these breeds are highly trainable and rehabilitation by attentive trainers and owners works wonders … Bottom line: these dogs are born and bred to hunt, even if clueless hunters try to ruin them by treating them as disposable.” (2023).

When abandoned hunting dogs are found, they usually are starving and wounded, which not only hurts the dogs, but the people and places who end up taking care of them. According to an article from the website, Scout for Pets, “German shorthairs, English pointers, and Labrador retrievers are just some of the breeds often found wandering fields or canyons post-hunting season.” (2023).

However, keeping the dog can be good, too. I have what might be considered a ‘defective hunting dog’ named Sully, but we keep him around. Sully has provided our family with companionship and a more active and social life, as well as a good laugh. I know that with Sully, he has unconditional love for our family, and is always with us, as well as providing us with a built-in doorbell for our Amazon packages.

Instead of throwing your dog out onto the street, go to your nearest shelter. Putting up your dog for adoption at the shelter will not cost any fee and it is an ethical way to give up your dog. If you don’t have any shelters near you, you can also find a friend or contact that is willing to take in and take care of your dog, this way neither you or the dog is impacted negatively.

Lucie Hollon

sixth grade student at CTL

Southport