Many hunters enjoy heading north of the border to try out their hunting luck in Ontario. Because of the beautiful scenery and many species available, Ontario is a great hunting destination. Ontario offers many of the same species as the United States with one exception; in Ontario, the moose, deer, and bear grow much larger! Ontario also offers a lot of land available to the hunter for hunting and recreational purposes.

While the hunter might be put off by the idea of crossing an international border, there really aren't that many things to be concerned with, even if you're bringing your favorite four-legged hunting companion. There are a few things a hunter should bring along with him and as long as he has them, he can enjoy a great international hunting expedition!

Bringing your dog over the Canadian border doesn't require the amount of paperwork a hunter might think. Often the only thing required is a signed letter from your veterinarian that the dog has had a rabies shot in the past three years. If the dog is under three months, that isn't even necessary. If you call your local vet they will probably be very familiar with the requirements for a dog crossing international borders and can outfit you with anything you may need.

There are also some special supplies a hunter should bring for his dog if he's hunting Ontario in the winter. Just like a hunter would outfit himself in all the warmest clothing, a dog also needs to be considered. Often a dog won't have a problem with warmth, but if your dog has shorter hair and you're concerned, many pet supply stores offer jackets for just this purpose. They come in a variety of sizes to fit your dog perfectly. The jacket should be small enough that it doesn't move around, but not so small that it restricts oxygen or blood flow. Another thing to consider is boots for your four-legged hunting partner; a dog's feet are very susceptible to frostbite when exposed to snow and cold temperatures for long periods of time. Outfitting your dog with properly fitted boots can make a world of difference.

Another thing to be concerned with when hunting in the Ontario winter is hydrating your dog; many dogs are smart enough to eat snow if they get too thirsty, but certainly don't depend on this for his sole source of hydration. Many pet supply stores offer collapsible water bowls that store easily and can be opened when needed. Be sure to offer your dog water every time you have a break. Another thing many hunters in cold climates do in the winter time is mix their dogs dry food with warm water. This way the water won't freeze as quickly and the dog gets the hydration he needs when he's eating.

With these few tips in mind, both hunter and hunting dog can enjoy a Canadian hunting experience unlike any other.