my old dog broke his leg in his fourth season... needless to say but hes still here with me to the day, he does a good job guarding my home and kennel... the only hunting I can do with him is light ferreting such as 3 or 4 hole warrens that are always netted up well, this will allow him to still get his mouth round some live game... such a shame as he was taking all quarry day and night... hope everything works out for you