What is in my early shoot season kit?

There's something special about the start of the shooting season. Getting back into a new routine, catching up with friends you haven't seen for months, and of course seeing the dogs doing what they love again. While the dogs might be full of enthusiasm from day one, I always think the early season is about building fitness steadily and making sure they're comfortable, hydrated and fuelled for the day ahead especially this year with the unusual heat we have been having.

As I start getting my shoot season kit together for days in the field, these are the items that always make it into my bag (along with a few treats for the beater's bus!).

Hydration is Top of My Packing List

One of the first things I pack is my Duo Field Bottle. It's quickly become one of those items I wonder how I managed without. The insulated bottle comes with two detachable bowls stored neatly in the base, making it ideal for keeping the dogs hydrated throughout the day without carrying lots of items with me.

Before heading out, I fill the bottle with water mixed with our Isotonic Rehydration Powder. During the early season, temperatures can still be surprisingly warm, and dogs can lose fluids quickly through exercise and panting. Our isotonic powder provides a balanced blend of essential electrolytes and minerals including sodium, potassium, calcium and magnesium, helping to restore hydration levels and support recovery after exercise. It's particularly popular with working and active dogs. I always top the bottle up again at lunchtime so the dogs have access to fresh hydration throughout the day. I also love the fact that the Duo Bottle has two bowls. One can be used for water while the other can hold a few snacks or energy treats ready for a quick pit stop between drives.

Keeping Energy Levels Topped Up

The dogs may not have reached peak fitness yet during the first few weeks of the season, which is why I think it's really important to keep their energy levels topped up.

I always carry either our Lamb Fat Cubes or PureFlax Energy Bars. They're easy to pop into a pocket and incredibly handy when the dogs need a little boost during a long day in the field.

The PureFlax Energy Bar was developed alongside canine nutrition professionals and provides instant energy support for active and working dogs. Made with dried turkey and flaxseed meal, it's designed to help support stamina and performance and is ideal before exercise or whenever an energy boost is needed. For dogs that prefer something a little different, our Lamb Fat Cubes are always popular and are available in both Garlic and Seaweed flavours. They're a fantastic pocket-sized reward and a great way to help maintain condition throughout the season.

A Well-Stocked First Aid Kit

The next thing I always make sure I have is my first aid box. Hopefully it won't be needed, but when you're working dogs regularly it's far better to have it and not need it than the other way around.

My go-to is the Dog First Aid Co First Aid Kit, which takes all the hassle out of sourcing individual items yourself. t's packed with the essentials you might need when you're out in the field, all conveniently stored in one place, making it ideal for working dog owners who want peace of mind that they're prepared.

Alongside my main first aid kit, I always carry a few extra products that I've found invaluable over the years. One of those is Aqueos Spray-On Plaster, which is brilliant for helping to protect minor cuts and scrapes while you're away from home. It creates a protective barrier over the affected area, making it a handy addition to any kit. I also keep Aqueos Hand Sanitiser with me at all times, whether I'm treating a minor injury or simply grabbing lunch between drives, it's useful to have a quick and effective way to keep hands clean.

I also never leave home without a comb. Spaniel owners will understand! Burrs, seeds and tangles always seem to find their way into ears and feathering, and a quick brush through can save a lot of hassle later.

Fresh Bedding for a New Season

Does anybody else do this, or is it just me?

Every year, I like to treat the dogs to new bedding in the truck before the season starts. It's more of a "nice to have" than an essential, but after a summer of training and adventures it feels like the perfect excuse for a refresh.

This year I've chosen our brand new (beautiful!) Plum Partridge design, and I have to say I'm absolutely delighted with how it looks. Not only does it keep the dogs comfortable during the journey home, but it also gives the truck a smart new-season feel.

The Spare Whistle That Saves the Day

I can't be the only person who's arrived somewhere and realised I've forgotten something important! For me, that item is usually my whistle.

That's why I always keep a spare whistle and lanyard permanently in my beating kit. It takes up hardly any room and avoids that sinking feeling when you reach into your pocket and realise your main whistle is still sitting on the kitchen worktop. Trust me, future you will be grateful.

Layers and More Layers - the key to a shoot season kit

If there's one thing we can guarantee about the British weather, it's that it won't make its mind up. The early season can start off chilly, become warm by lunchtime and then surprise you with a downpour before the final drive. I always pack plenty of layers so I can adapt throughout the day and stay comfortable whatever the weather decides to do.

Being prepared means you can focus on enjoying the day rather than wishing you'd brought an extra fleece.

And Finally... Cake!

No early season preparation would be complete without mentioning the most important item of all... cake.

A box of cakes for the beater's bus always goes down brilliantly and feels like the perfect way to celebrate the season getting underway. After all, one of the best parts of shooting is catching up with friends old and new, sharing stories from the off-season and looking forward to the months ahead. The dogs get their treats, and we get ours!

Ready for the Season?

Whether you're preparing for your first ever day in the field or are a seasoned regular, a little preparation goes a long way. Keeping your dogs hydrated, fuelled and comfortable can make all the difference to their enjoyment and performance as their fitness levels build throughout the autumn.

If you're still ticking off your kit list, you'll find everything from Isotonic Rehydration Powder, Duo Field Bottles, Vet Bedding, Leads or Whistles and other field essentials right here at Avonmeadow Supplies.