Orange is the New Black: Staying Safe on the Trails With Your Dog During Hunting Season

Fall in Loudoun County means crisp mornings, colorful leaves—and hunting season. Loudoun County actually has the longest deer hunting season in the country, the first Saturday in September, all the way to the last Saturday in April. It's more often hunting season than not!!

Whether you’re out walking the trails in Leesburg, hiking near Bluemont, or letting your pup run in your backyard, it’s essential to take extra precautions to keep both you and your pet safe.

Here’s what every pet parent should know:

1. Know When & Where Hunting Happens

• Virginia's hunting season generally runs from the first Saturday in September through the first Saturday in January, with specific dates varying depending on the type of game (deer, turkey, or small game). However, many counties have hunting seasons that extend until late March and beyond. It's hunting season more often than you might think!!

• Public lands & rural areas are the most active spots, including woods near Round Hill, Purcellville, and Lovettsville.

• Private property may also be used for hunting—always respect “No Trespassing” and “Hunting Allowed” signs.

👉 Tip: Check the Virginia DWR hunting calendar before hitting the trails.

2. Make Yourself and Your Dog Visible

Hunters wear blaze orange for a reason—it stands out. Your dog should, too. Any time you are on public land, and even on private land that borders neighbors that hunt or public land like Wildlife Management Areas, National Forests, and some state forests, you should:

• Use a bright orange vest or bandana on your pup. We like this one for the handle and velcro options, just make sure your accessories are also blaze orange. For you humans, Amazon has a wide variety of hats, vests, and jackets available.

• Carry a flashlight, headlamp, or clip-on LED for early morning/evening walks.

• Avoid natural-colored gear like brown or camo that could blend in with wildlife.

3. Stick to Safe Areas

• Choose neighborhood sidewalks, fenced dog parks, or town walking trails during peak hunting days.

• If you love hiking, go midday when hunting activity is lowest.

• Avoid dense woods or fields where visibility is poor.

4. Keep Dogs Leashed & Close

• Even well-trained dogs can wander off if they smell deer or other wildlife.

• Hunters may mistake an off-leash dog moving in brush for wild game.

• A leash also prevents your pup from running onto private property.

5. Protect Against Outdoor Hazards

• Use flea & tick prevention—deer activity can increase tick populations.

• Carry fresh water to keep your pup hydrated on longer walks.

• Make noise—talk, whistle, or attach a bell to your dog’s collar to alert hunters nearby.

6. Be Prepared for Emergencies

• Carry your vet’s phone number and know the closest 24/7 emergency clinic.

• If your dog is injured, stay calm, apply pressure to any bleeding wound, and seek care immediately.

• Report unsafe or illegal hunting activity to Virginia DWR or local authorities.

Bottom Line

Hunting season doesn’t mean you and your pup can’t enjoy the outdoors. With a little planning—bright gear, safe routes, and extra awareness—you can both stay safe while still soaking in Loudoun’s gorgeous fall scenery.

At Waggin’ Tails, our team is out in local yards and trails every day. We’re trained to spot seasonal hazards, from ticks to coyote activity, so your pets can enjoy safe, happy walks all year round.