We are starting to collect the  “stuff” that we need for the hunt test this weekend.  It is amazing how much “stuff” we have just to help beat the blazing sun and heat.  Most hunt tests take place in open fields with little to no shade available.

Easy-Up, Tent Spikes, Sunscreen, And Clips

We purchased this easy-up last summer because our other one kept loosing screws and was falling apart.  This is the first time we used the new one.  It can be made much taller so that hopefully it will cover the truck.  It also has pull pins which make it easier to take down.  (I could never push those stupid little pins with my weak thumbs.)  We hope the added shade will make it cooler for the dogs while they wait their turn.  Last year we had a tough time finding an easy-up that was not gigantic, yet could still be made tall enough for the truck.  This summer it seems like they are everywhere.

The silver mesh sunshade hanging from the side of the easy up is nice because it is reflective, yet will allow air to flow through.  If you check out this site, you will see that there are reflective mesh sunscreens for every purpose.  We also have a reflective screen that is not mesh and a mesh sunscreen that is not reflective.  We have a lot of sunscreens.  🙂  Plus we bring assorted clips and bungees so that we can attach the screens where ever we need them and tent spikes to stake the easy-up.

Fans, Water Buckets And Big Jug Of Water

We also bring a big jug of water and buckets for water which we attach to the inside of the crates with clips.  Our Chessies like to splash water when they are hot and on occasion they have tipped their bowls over.  Now we clip them to their crates and discourage splashing. 😉

Big Fan, Battery, Ice Chests, First Aid Kit

We also bring lots of fans and extra batteries to run them.  In addition to the smaller fans, we also have a large size fan which circulates a lot of air and runs off an RV battery.  Then there is the assorted coolers with ice and beverages and food for lunch.  In addition to the items we bring to beat the heat, we also bring towels to dry the dogs off, the first aid kit, (the brown bag on top of the crate), extra leashes, waste bags, and of course chairs, sun screen, bug spray, and a change of clothes.  For a Seasoned Hunt Test they also require you to bring hip boots or waders!  No wonder it takes a week to get the “stuff” together.  😆

Storm From The Training Day Last Weekend