Heat is not the only factor which can cause discomfort for your canine companion during the early hunting season. Heavy cover, weeds and seeds can cause other physical problems. Bob West recommends carefully checking your dog for potential problems after each field session. Problems to watch for include ticks, fleas and seeds. Sometimes seeds can find their way into the dog's ears, nostrils, mouth, paw pads and coat.
Prompt removal can prevent problems before they start.
After the dog is back in its kennel or in the house, watch carefully for signs of problems you may have missed. For example, seeds can cause the eyes to be red and irritated. Sudden snorting, pawing, violently at the face, head-shaking or severe bursts of sneezing could indicate seeds in the nasal passages. Violent head shaking, scratching about the ears and neck and discharges from the ears are signs of ear problems. Limping or gnawing paws indicate pad troubles.