central & southern gsp society sponsor the 2026 england hpr international team with electrolytes for the dogsWith member Millie Pocock and her GSP Louis being selected as part of the England Team for the HPR Internationals in 2026, we were delighted to sponsor the England Team. Our sponsorship supplied the team dogs with electrolytes for use during training and the main event.  What are electrolytes? Electrolytes are essential minerals that help regulate many of the body's vital functions, including hydration, muscle contraction and nerve function. During strenuous exercise in hot weather, dogs lose not only water but also important minerals such as potassium, bicarbonate and magnesium through heavy panting and saliva. Dogs do not sweat through their skin. They cool themselves primarily by panting, which can result in significant fluid loss and increase the risk of dehydration and heat stress. Why are electrolytes given to dogs?For most pet dogs, fresh water is all that is needed. However, working gundogs exercising for long periods in warm conditions have much greater hydration demands. Scientific studies have shown that relying solely on plain water can cause dogs to stop drinking before they are fully rehydrated because drinking large amounts of water quickly dilutes the blood, triggering the brain's "thirst switch." Research has also demonstrated higher levels of ‘Creatine Kinase’ (a marker of muscle damage in dogs hydrated only with plain water). Properly formulated electrolyte solutions encourage dogs to drink more, improve water absorption, help maintain mineral balance and reduce muscle damage during prolonged work. How and when are electrolytes given?Research recommends a simple three-stage approach:
Only dog-specific electrolyte products should be used. Human sports drinks and oral rehydration products should never be given as they contain inappropriate mineral balances and may contain ingredients that are unsuitable or even toxic to dogs. Why are electrolytes being used at the Game Fair?The International HPR Game Fair brings together some of England, Wales, Scotland and Ireland's top Hunt, Point and Retrieve dogs, all of which are working at a high level over a prolonged period. When warm weather is forecast, maintaining hydration becomes an important part of protecting the dogs' welfare. By encouraging voluntary drinking and improving hydration, electrolytes help reduce heat stress, support muscle function and provide an additional safeguard against dehydration during what can be prolonged periods of physical activity. ecent studies from veterinary sports medicine researchers, including the Penn Vet Working Dog Center, demonstrate that correctly formulated electrolyte solutions can improve hydration, reduce muscle damage and help dogs cope more effectively with exercise in hot conditions.  Can electrolytes benefit pets in extreme heat or are they only for sporting and working dogs?Healthy pet dogs generally require nothing more than access to plenty of fresh water and shade. Electrolytes are primarily intended for dogs undertaking prolonged or strenuous exercise, such as working, sporting and competition dogs. In exceptional circumstances, for example, prolonged activity in very hot weather or under veterinary guidance they may also benefit some pet dogs. Owners should always use products formulated specifically for dogs rather than human electrolyte drinks. Where can you get electrolytes for dogs?Dog-specific electrolyte products are available through veterinary practices, working dog suppliers and specialist canine sports retailers. Only products designed specifically for dogs should be used, as they contain the correct balance of minerals and are formulated to be both safe and palatable. Scientific Evidence
Keeping Your GSP Safe in the HeatWith temperatures rising, it’s important to take extra care of our German Shorthaired Pointers during warm weather. As an active, energetic breed, GSPs often won’t know when to slow down, so it’s up to us to help keep them safe.  *Top tips for GSPs IN hot weather:Walk at cooler times Aim for early mornings or later evenings, and avoid strenuous exercise during the hottest part of the day. Check the ground temperature Hot pavements can burn paws. Use the “7-second test” — if it’s too hot for the back of your hand, it’s too hot for your dog. Keep fresh water available Always make sure your dog has access to cool, clean water, both at home and when out walking or training.  Provide shade and cooling options Whether indoors or outside, make sure your GSP has somewhere cool to rest. Damp towels, paddling pools, fans, and shaded spots can all help. Never leave dogs in cars Even for a few minutes, cars can become dangerously hot very quickly. Know the signs of heatstroke Watch for excessive panting, drooling, lethargy, vomiting, wobbliness, or collapse. If you suspect heatstroke, move your dog somewhere cool, use cool water, and contact your vet immediately.  Our GSPs love to run, work, and play, but in hot weather their safety must come first. A little extra care to keep your GSP comfortable and safe will make for a happy summer. Do you have any tips for keeping your GSP cool in the heat? Please comment below or on our Facebook Page. Stay safe and enjoy the summer withyour GSP. *Information taken from the Royal Kennel Club's 'Supporting your dog during the heatwave'
Following the Championship/Open Show At the Kennel Club Building AGENDA
1. Apologies for Absence 2. Minutes of the AGM held on 11th May 2025 3. Matters Arising 4. Chairman’s Report 5. Treasurer’s Report 5a. Annual accounts for year ending 31st March 2026 5b. Appointment of auditor 6. Subscriptions 7. Election of Officers & Committee 7a. Eileen Hughes standing down as President and re-standing for the position 7b. Ben Ashcroft to retire as Secretary and Committee Member 7c. Millie Pocock standing down as Treasurer and re-standing for the position 7d. Rhoneen Schoneville standing down from the committee and will not be seeking re-election 8. Safeguarding 9. Any other business relating to the Society and accepted by the chairman following the Championship/Open Show At the Kennel Club Building AGENDA
5b. Appointment of auditors 6. Subscriptions 7. Election of Officers & Committee 7a. Ben Ashcroft standing down as Secretary and restanding for the position 7b. Millie Pocock standing down as Treasurer and restanding for the position 7c. Karen Joy and Terry Desombre standing down from the committee and up for re-election. 7d. Doreen Smilie-Grey standing down from the committee and will not seeking reelection 8. Any other business relating to the Society and accepted by the chairman following the Championship/Open Show At the Kennel Club Building
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