Message #254602

[firemedic]

I seriously doubt that there's another human being that's as bothered by the stuff as me....it's tormented me my entire life. If you want to enjoy the outdoors during summer I offer you this advice....learn to recognize it and STAY OUT OF IT. I know that it's hard to do when you're hunting with dogs because they get covered up with it, however you can dodge it if you wash your hands frequently while you're hunting, carry some hand wipes in your shirt in a zip lock bagand use them, especially after handling the dogs. Wear a long sleeve shirt if you can stand it, and above all else......shower as soon as you get home and get the dogs put up....I can't stess that point strongly enough. Wash with soap and use run the shower heavy too. I've done this for years and it's been many years since I've had a good case of it so I know this works. Plus,......don't handle your dogs the next day or anytime for awhile, if you have to, be sure to go wash with soap and water first thing after you touch one of the dogs that has it on them. Prevention is the key here. The oil from this stuff is potent even when diluted down to a few parts per million. As for a remedy....I've tried everything from horse lenament to bleach to aftershave....tried 'em all, the best thing I ever found was lemon juice......just get a bottle of the stuff at the store and rub it on....it's a natural astringent and will help with the itch too......this is the only way I can get out in the woods during summer without being at the Doc's office in about a week......hope this helps you out.