🦺 Safety precautions for walks during hunting season

Hunting season is often a worrying time for people walking their dogs, and it can sometimes lead to tension with hunters. Whatever our stance, our companions’ safety remains the top priority.

🎯 An experience that leaves a mark

During a walk in Provence, I came across several hunters—some of them unfriendly, even intimidating. These situations are rare, but they stay with you. Most of the time, encounters go smoothly as long as everyone remains respectful.

👀 A remark that makes you think

One day, a hunter pointed out that my dogs, without highly visible vests, were hard to spot. In the moment, I reacted defensively. But seeing his own dogs wearing bright orange high-visibility vests, I realized he was right: it’s a simple, useful precaution for them… and for us.

🐾 Safety tips

• Check which days and areas are used for hunting (signs, town hall, local websites).
• Make yourselves visible: wear a high-vis vest, and use a bright collar or harness for your dog.
• Keep your dog close: use a long line or make sure recall is reliable.
• Stay courteous with hunters: a simple hello often helps ease tensions.
• Choose safer areas: marked trails, quieter times of day, public/state forests.

💬 In summary

Coexisting—walkers and hunters—is possible. With caution, visibility, and mutual respect, everyone can enjoy nature safely. And sometimes, good advice even comes from the other side!