basc codes of practice

The BASC strongly recommends that anyone who goes shooting should be accompanied by a trained and competent gundog. Using a well trained gundog ensures that everything possible has been done for the humane recovery of the quarry and shows a responsible attitude. Furthermore, the ownership and delight in working a well trained gundog is an enjoyable pastime in itself.

Some basic points of the law

In Scotland and Northern Ireland those using their dogs for picking up fallen game require a game licence (the game licence in England and Wales was abolished in August 2007).
All dogs (including gundogs) must, in public places, wear a collar marked with the owner's name and address except where the dog is being used for sporting purposes at the time.
Dogs must be kept on a lead when on a designated road except where the dog is being used for sporting purposes at the time.
It is an offence to have any dog dangerously out of control in a public place.
Gundogs must not be sent to retrieve game that has fallen beyond a shoot boundary without the prior consent of the adjoining landowner. To do so constitutes civil trespass.
Owners and handlers of dogs commit an offence if their dogs worry livestock on agricultural land.
Owners and handlers of dogs similarly commit an offence if their dogs are not under close control in a sheep enclosure (even if not worrying the sheep) except where the dog is being used for sporting purposes at the time.
The control of dogs

Dogs not under the close control of their owners on agri-cultural land may be shot by the landowner or occupier (or his servant) if they are, or have been worrying livestock, and there is no other reasonable means of ending or preventing the worrying.
If a dog kills or injures livestock, the keeper (owner or person in possession) is liable for damages to the livestock owner.
Dogs at home

Ensure that a new puppy is vaccinated to protect it against distemper, hepatitis, parvo virus, leptospirosis and tetanus.
Ensure that your dog receives an annual booster for parvo virus and leptospirosis and every other year for distemper, hepatitis, and tetanus.
Ensure that your dog is wormed regularly (as recommended by medication) to control roundworms and tapeworms. This is particularly important if young children are around.
Ensure that an infestation of lice, fleas, ticks or ear mites is treated promptly. Remember to treat bedding, carpets and furniture used by the dog at the same time.
Provide your dog with living quarters that are warm, dry and draught free.
Ensure that your dog has clean drinking water available at all times.
Feed good quality food appropriate to the dog's age and work regime.
Dogs in the car

Never leave your dog unattended in a car unless absolutely unavoidable. If you have to do so, leave the dog for the minimum time, park in the shade and ensure adequate ventilation.
Never leave a dog unattended in a car on a hot or sunny day. Even with the windows open a car can quickly become an oven.
Always carry water and a bowl in the car when transporting your dog.
Dogs in the field

Always treat game with respect
Be confident your dog is under your control before you take him out in the field. An untrained dog is a nuisance and a danger to livestock, other dogs and people.
Ensure that your dog will be welcome before taking him to a shoot to which you have been invited.
Never take a bitch in season (oestrus) onto a shoot where there will be other dogs.
Ensure that your dog is under control when not working, and particularly near roads and around cars.
Remove your dog's collar before going into the field to prevent the dog from being caught up on fences, branches etc.
Be aware of the whereabouts of your dog and those of others when walking up cover.
Be aware of your dog's whereabouts when loading and closing guns, particularly in confined spaces such as a pigeon or duck hide.
Check with the keeper where you may pick up and do not let your dog disturb ground which is still to be shot.
When sending your dog for a retrieve, ensure that the Guns are aware of his presence. If in doubt do not send your dog until shooting has ceased. Particular care should be taken in poor light conditions such as when flighting at dusk.
Never tie a dog to yourself or your equipment. Use a proper dog anchor if necessary.
Dogs on the foreshore

Try to make your dog comfortable - make sure he has a dry seat.
Send your dog to retrieve birds as they are shot.
Dogging the tide line will often recover lost birds.
At the end of a shoot

Check your dog for thorns and cuts and treat them promptly. Carry a first aid kit for your dog in the car and in the field.
Ensure your dog has access to water.
Dry your dog off before leaving him in the car or driving home.
Training

Make sure that training sessions are enjoyable for both you and your dog.
Formal training will not begin until a puppy is several months old but good manners can be taught from the beginning.
Gundog training and obedience classes at local clubs can help you and your dog. The BASC also run a nationwide programme of training days.
Mixing with other dogs will help steady and 'socialise' a young dog.
Insurance

Consider insuring your dog against veterinary fees, accident and illness, accidental death, loss by theft or straying, recovery and legal costs and third party liability. Competitive cover is available through the BASC 'Dog Insurance Scheme'.
Consider marking your dog with a tattoo or implanted chip to help recovery if lost or stolen.