Hunting in Rhode Island: Regulations for Hunting With Dogs

Humans have been hunting with the aid of dogs for as long as 15,000 years, according to archaeologists and historians. Dogs are allowed for hunting in Rhode Island, provided their owners follow basic safety procedures, use common courtesy and abide by the state’s animal laws.

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Taking your dog hunting can help you better track your prey and improve your accuracy and efficiency. Here are three things you must keep in mind when taking your dog hunting in Rhode Island.

1. Dogs are limited to specific areas and time periods.
Rhode Island allows dogs onto its state-managed areas only under certain conditions, according to the Department of Environmental Management. The state prohibits dogs from running loose in these areas or being trained or exercised there from March to August. The state does, however, operate several dog training areas where you can train, exercise, or run your dog and where it can run freely. These areas are open from January through September. You must have a current hunting license to train your dog for hunting in these locations. You can use live birds to train your dog, but you must release them unharmed. If you use state-managed areas to train your dog for hunting, you must have proof that the dog has had a rabies vaccination.

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2. Your dog must have the appropriate documentation.
According to the hunting regulations set forth by the State of Rhode Island, dogs involved in hunting activities must wear a tag and collar with the name and address of the owner. They also must have a current license and tag. According to the website for the city of Providence, Rhode Island, a license is required for all dogs over 4 months old. You can purchase a dog license for $5 through your local animal control office. You must show proof of rabies vaccination.

3. You can’t use dogs for hunting in all areas, or for all kinds of game.
The Rhode Island Hunting and Trapping Guide, for example, said you can’t use dogs for hunting wild turkey. However, you can use dogs for hunting raccoon. Check with the Rhode Island Department of Environmental Management to confirm what kind of animal you can use your dog to hunt.

This article is for information only. Please check current regulations before hunting.

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