I work for the US Forest service as a wildlife biologist. I also taught high school several years. I guess my question to you is, when you think of a "forest ranger" what do you think that job entails? What do you envision doing?

Because a forest ranger with the federal government is responsible for managing a district on a national forest. They manage staff, make decisions about projects, direct timber, wildlife, recreation, engineering, fire, etc. for their district. It is a very demanding job with a lot of competing interests, and at times a lot of politics. The job is actually quite different than many people envision.

You too!!!

Sorry, I missed your question! Yes, tungsten and I think there are other non toxic alternatives as well. Honestly, it blows my mind that lead is still so widely permissable.

Don't use lead. It is extremely toxic and kills many eagles, waterfowl and poisons just about any species that ingests it. It is a pretty brutal death too. I am a wildlife and fisheries biologist and really wish lead fishing gear and lead shot were illegal. Leads to so much suffering.

Yes, keep them open as they heal. Warm compresses help with that. Also there are ointments vets can give you to pack the wound with that help with tissue granulation, but with a dog that is difficult because they tend to lick their wounds when they can reach them. I had a sheep once with a deep abcess and the tissue granulation ointment worked really well. Watch for flies too, I hate to say.... You definitely don't want them near those wounds.

I am so sorry to hear about your dog. Those are some nasty puncture wounds. Just wanted to mention that punctures abcess very easily. What happens is the skin heals over the top while the wound inside heals much more slowly. Keep a very close eye on them and watch for redness, puffiness, and heat. Sending healing thoughts.