Few outdoor pursuits fuel the desire for a road trip more than bird hunting. With an incredible diversity of species and habitat, there’s hardly a better way to sample all the wingshooting options this country offers than loading up the dogs and hitting the open road.

Most porcupine encounters can be managed with a bit of common sense and some basic tools. However, there are times when it’s much safer, more effective, and less stressful to seek help from a veterinarian. Knowing when to channel your DIY tendencies and when to tap out and seek a professional can make a difference in the outcome of a porcupine encounter.