Foxhunting Horse

First let us consider the horse.  Not all horses will hunt or like to hunt. If you have questions about how well your horse will perform these tasks in a group you are encouraged to take advantage of the hunt’s summer trail rides, as well as consult with the Masters or Huntsman!

The horse must:

• Be willing to go in a group without undue fuss or excitement, and then halt when asked. 

• Must also be willing to stand quietly (Wadsworth maintains that the halt is the most necessary aspect of a hunter!). 

• Be able to wait.  While the ability to jump safely is an excellent quality, the ability to wait for their turn at a fence is just as desirable.

• Be fit enough to participate. A lathered, unfit horse not only shows poor horsemanship, but is bad public relations for the hunt.

• Be tolerant of other horses in moderately close proximity-it is a grave fault to kick another horse.  Horses that kick should be ridden at the back of the field, and a red ribbon worn in the tail.  Wearing the ribbon does NOT however absolve the rider of the responsibility for controlling their horse!

• Be tolerant of hounds-it is a CARDINAL SIN to kick a hound!

• Be sure footed going across country and able to negotiate natural obstacles such as ditches, bogs, water and fallen logs.