Letting a youngster 'see' hounds?

[SpruceRI]

My local hunt have got a meet soon and several of my friends are going.

I was wondering whether to take my 4yr old along to see what goes on.

Not sure whether this is a good idea as I have no idea how she'll act.

I don't want to do the hunt because her brakes and steering aren't good enough at speed, and anyway, she's majorly not fit.

Can I just hack along to the meet, stand there for a bit and then go home?

Do I need to contact the Hunt Sec and ask their permission?

I'll only go if I can find someone to hack back to my car with as I can't expect her to leave the throng on her own!

 

[SpruceRI]

Anyone?

 

[BallyshanHorses]

I think it is a great idea maybe to go out for an hour or so just to let your 4yr old experience something new.I have taken mine to charity rides as there is not so much buzz to start off with.

 

[A1fie]

I went out twice in the last week with a group, one of which was on a three year old. We all babysat her and stayed with her the whole time. We stayed right at the back and didn't rush off with the crowd.

I think it's a great idea to get youngsters used to hounds early but I think you should bring a friend on a real steady horse to give her confidence and reassurance.

Disclaimer - 3yr old is being turned away for winter soon and will be re-backed in spring, she has only been ridden gently for the last 3 months. Cubbing was just to introduce her to hounds and hunting.

 

[SpruceRI]

Thanks both

Think my only option of accompanying hacking horse is a 5yr old, whose never seen hounds either so maybe this isn't a good combination to stop for a look and then walk away before the hunt sets off!!

 

[A1fie]

Ah, in that case I might leave it for a bit unless you can leave the meet before the field does. I think it really helps them to have a buddy there who is unfazed by everything.

 

[DollyDolls]

Not every horse is mad out hunting, I took Stan last season for his first ever time (7yr old) & he was as calm as the old hands.

Dolls went out with the Bloodhounds for her 1st time (just a hound exercise) and Stan went too. Both were very well behaved.

Went out with Foxhounds a week or so ago & once more very well mannered. Yes, they both got a bit fidgety when stood around but I firmly believe that if they have manners at home & at shows, then hunting ought to be no different.