How to Keep Hunting Dogs Off My Land
Many hunters use dogs to track game. While hunters may generally respect "No Hunting" or "No Trespassing" signs posted by land owners, it can be difficult to keep hunting dogs from tracking or chasing game onto private land. If you are a landowner who wants to prevent or minimize access to your land by hunters and their dogs, there are several steps you can take. Does this Spark an idea?
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Instructions
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Post "No Hunting" and "No Trespassing" signs around the perimeter of your property. If hunters have been given permission to hunt on land adjacent to your property, you can assume that there will be times when hunters and their dogs will stray across boundaries. Most hunters want to respect property owner's wishes so as not to bring negative attention to their sport. If they do find themselves on your land, it's likely accidental. You want to provide several opportunities for hunters to see that your land is clearly marked with signs. One sign posted at your driveway might not do it; several signs posted around your entire property line might be necessary.
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Erect a fence around your property. Hunting dogs are trained to respond to their owners' commands, even when chasing game. If a dog is chasing a deer and that deer runs onto your property, however, the dog will likely follow it for at least a short distance. The best way to prevent hunting dogs from coming onto your property is to build a fence that a dog cannot run under or easily jump over. You can use wire mesh, such as chicken coop wire, to prevent the dog from running under fence rails.
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Communicate with hunters. Too often, private property owners and hunters assume that communication must be combative. This does not have to be the case. Assume that a hunter wants to respect your property boundaries until you know for certain that he is trespassing on purpose. When you know a hunter is out with his dogs, attempt to locate him and have a conversation about where the public land ends and your property begins. He might be thankful for the information. If a hunter is resistant to your wishes to have him stay off your land, alert him to your posted signs and tell him that you will call the authorities if he or his dogs continue to trespass.
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Talk with your local law enforcement or fish and wildlife department officials about posting laws in your area. Make certain that your posted signs meet all requirements to be in compliance with the law. Also keep local law enforcement telephone numbers readily available in case you do need to call them about a hunter who is trespassing.
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Tips & Warnings
Check your posted signs often to make sure they have not been damaged by weather or people. Signs should be securely attached to posts or trees with a nail.
When approaching a hunter actively hunting always wear bright colored clothing, such as an orange vest, so that he can easily see you.
References
- Photo Credit hungarian vizsla hunt dog pet hunting upland bird image by Paul Retherford from Fotolia.com
