Never been hunting.............

[ChowChow]

...........and I think I'd like to give it a go. I say like as I don't know what to expect, I've never been hunting, don't know anyone in the hunting community would I be welcomed to just go for a day?

Whats it like? I can't say I'm the bravest of riders - I don't jump for example (shall I just stick to dressage!?)

 

[Rowreach]

Find out which your local hunt is and get in touch with the hunt secretary to see if they run any "taster" days. Even if they don't, they can advise you which days are best if you and your horse are inexperienced. Depending on what you think your horse may make of it, you might be better off having a day on a hireling, or maybe finding someone to go with who has a sensible horse to accompany yours.

When I hunted in England we ran a "nanny scheme" so that someone experienced would accompany a newcomer for the day, to make sure they were okay and to explain what was going on, etiquette and so on.

I'm sure your local hunt would be very pleased to see you.

 

[ChowChow]

Thanks I'll get in touch with them, I think there's 2 or 3 in my area

 

[brewinney]

I would not be worried because i was worried the first time i went out and i don't like to jump also people who hunt love new comers. So don't worrie.

 

[rockinghorse]

my daughter went hunting 2 seasons ago for the first time and I forgot to tell her that her 6 yr old pony had not actually been hunting before!! However the hunt master welcomed her, gave her positive comments about her mount but what made her day was that she was asked to act as lead to 16h + hunters through water. She grew 2 inches that day. I can hear some of you gasp but in this instance mum really did know best!

 

[Orangehorse]

Just make sure your horse is fit enough, ie. doing hunter trials/eventing, and start off with short days.

 

[JenHunt]

where abouts up north are you?? if you are near me then you are more than welcome to come have a go with us and I will look after you!! or if you aren't to far away I'll come and go out with a different pack with you.

Best idea is generally to speak to the secretaries of your local packs to find out where they meet and what sort of country they cover...
PM me if you need help!

 

[ChowChow]

Just make sure your horse is fit enough, ie. doing hunter trials/eventing, and start off with short days.

Oh dear I have a chunky Norwegian Fjord he's very laid back and not quite eventing standard but I have absolute trust in him to get me places safely. He's not your conventional hunter I know perhaps we could just do a little bit?

 

[mrsew]

Go for it ChowChow, you and your horse will love it!! As the others have said give your local Hunt Secretary a call and they will give you lots of advice, telling you which meets will be best to start you off. Me & my boy are totally hooked now - as long as your boy is reasonably fit you'll be fine....just listen to him whilst you're out, he'll soon tell you when he's had enough.....also the more he goes the fitter he (& you!!) will get. Enjoy!!