Bird dogs and hounds - common ground for training and care ... and is there room for non-toxic shot in your vest?

Slat mills, epsom salts and other stuff we should know about, courtesy of bird hunter, competitive houndsman and dog food rep Josh Michaelis. You'll be surprised at how many training tips, nutrition, first aid and dog care knowledge is relevant and transferable from coonhounds to the bird dog world.

Hannah Leonard is with Sporting Lead Free, an organization educating us to the long-term hazards of lead ammo to the habitat and our sport. She'll bring up some stuff I didn't know and may convince you to consider non-toxic shot.

"Handle It" offers a reason to have your pointing dog sit one out in lieu of a flusher, human or otherwise ... sometimes. And you share your "old dog" photos and share some heartfelt stories about those wizened dogs.

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Sage & Braker Mercantile, Pointer shotguns,, @midwayusa, #midwayusa, Midway USA, Mid Valley Clays and Shooting School, TrulockChokes, FurFeathersFriends Joy Dog Food and FindBirdHuntingSpots.com.