Again, begin by purchasing a Motorcycle Tube (different sizes out there, but 2.75/3.00-21 should fit most dogs) and cutting it into 5 1/2 " lengths, which should allow you to make 4 pairs (16 boots) from a single inner tube. Then as described before, make 2 cuts about 1 1/2" long, which make a "tongue" for the boot and allows it to slip over the dogs foot, just as you would put on a boot on your own foot. Overlap the outside pieces over the tongue (like on your own boots) and using duct tape firmly tape the boots at the top of the rubber. The photos clearly show about 1/2" of boot extending beyond the dogs toenails, so the protection against goat heads, sand burrs, etc. is extended beyond the dogs foot as he runs and the boot flexes on his feet. The bottom of the boot remains open to allow the foot to breath and expel any water, snow or small rocks or sand that may work up past the end into the dogs paw. You may check periodically for any weeds or debris that may work its way up the boot toward the dogs pads, but this seldom occurs. The trick is to use these boots BEFORE the dogs feet get beat up and sore. Some dogs don't have a problem, others if hunted for 4-5 days consecutively can sustain some raw pads, soreness, bleeding, etc. depending on the previous pad condition. Scissors, duct tape and the pre cut inner tube is all that is required to quickly provide protection for the dog's feet. This is especially important if hunting in icy conditions, as any dogs feet will quickly get raw from the constant abrasion of ice or crusted snow, especially if hunted beyond 3-4 consecutive days. Also, wanted to remind all that skunks continue to become more prolific and encounters seem more prevalent than ever. If you have ever had a contact and had to take your dog back to the motel room, you know the problem. Tomato juice is a neutralizer to some extent, but Skunk Off makes a shampoo and a lotion (can be applied directly to the dog) and they are far superior to most other antidotes. Also, a first aid kit and a carrying a leatherman (for cutting a snare, if your dog becomes entangled in one) can both be lifesaving tools. Good hunting, Richard |
