Silly question I'm sure ! Old hounds?

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Smellycob

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Please forgive my ignorance on this subject! Hunting is something I am becoming increasingly interested in and having never been on a hunt in my life (I watched one from a distance many moons ago) I am trying to acquire as much knowledge as possible. With regards to foxhunting, obviously I am aware of the 'debate' and the emotions this evokes. With that in mind I would really like to find a straight answer to a question I have - what happens to hounds when they become too old/ are injured / not really up to it anymore? Is it the same for all breeds of hound? I am aware of the view that foxhounds are not pets so euthanasia is best and am pretty stoic about these things (I know with my horses God forbid but I'd rather PTS than pass around), but how are they euthanised (if they are)? Shooting? I suppose what I'm asking is what actually happens as the information I have found from my own research into this comes form biased sources... Many thanks in advance xxx
 
Smellycob said:
Please forgive my ignorance on this subject! Hunting is something I am becoming increasingly interested in and having never been on a hunt in my life (I watched one from a distance many moons ago) I am trying to acquire as much knowledge as possible. With regards to foxhunting, obviously I am aware of the 'debate' and the emotions this evokes. With that in mind I would really like to find a straight answer to a question I have - what happens to hounds when they become too old/ are injured / not really up to it anymore? Is it the same for all breeds of hound? I am aware of the view that foxhounds are not pets so euthanasia is best and am pretty stoic about these things (I know with my horses God forbid but I'd rather PTS than pass around), but how are they euthanised (if they are)? Shooting? I suppose what I'm asking is what actually happens as the information I have found from my own research into this comes form biased sources... Many thanks in advance xxx
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I suspect you are some sort of Troll and that you know perfectly well.

As for your so called desire to acquire as much knowledge as much possible with regards foxhunting, there is no such thing as foxhunting, it was banned in 2004 under the Hunting Act 2004

Plainly you are a person whose intentions are less than genuine and we, who post regularly on this forum can INSTANTLY 'smell' them.
 
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Smellycob said:
Please forgive my ignorance on this subject! Hunting is something I am becoming increasingly interested in and having never been on a hunt in my life (I watched one from a distance many moons ago) I am trying to acquire as much knowledge as possible. With regards to foxhunting, obviously I am aware of the 'debate' and the emotions this evokes. With that in mind I would really like to find a straight answer to a question I have - what happens to hounds when they become too old/ are injured / not really up to it anymore? Is it the same for all breeds of hound? I am aware of the view that foxhounds are not pets so euthanasia is best and am pretty stoic about these things (I know with my horses God forbid but I'd rather PTS than pass around), but how are they euthanised (if they are)? Shooting? I suppose what I'm asking is what actually happens as the information I have found from my own research into this comes form biased sources... Many thanks in advance xxx
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Why do you ask ?
 
Curiosity and a desire to give it a go (when ponio is fitter!!!) A google search comes up with 'clubbed to death' and stuff like that but it's all from sab pages so I don't think I can trust it (if it is true that's OK - contrary to what the others on this thread seem to think - I don't live in big hunting country so I dont think its my place to judge). I thought they were shot but I'm not actively involved I'm not sure. Thanks for asking though and not jumping my throat x
 
Judgemental said:
No need to apologise, we can all see these people coming. They are remarkably naive.
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'These people' . Lovely. Your name suits you. For your information I am working class through and through, the only person to have a horse in my family and the only person who went to uni where I was lucky enough to study an equine degree ...guess what everyone there hunted and spoke about it. But the discussion of hounds never arose. So who do you suggest I ask to find out more then? My next door neighbour? The one who works in Tesco maybe? Rather than just take the word of sab pages on google and the like I thought who better than the people who would know on the forum I enjoy reading. My next question would have been how to get more involved as a complete (older) newbie. Stuff it. Obviously I've mentioned some deep dark secret I'm not supposed to and hunting packs aren't as friendly to people like me as I thought. ps. I don't shop in lush either.
 
Smellycob said:
'These people' . Lovely. Your name suits you. For your information I am working class through and through, the only person to have a horse in my family and the only person who went to uni where I was lucky enough to study an equine degree ...guess what everyone there hunted and spoke about it. But the discussion of hounds never arose. So who do you suggest I ask to find out more then? My next door neighbour? The one who works in Tesco maybe? Rather than just take the word of sab pages on google and the like I thought who better than the people who would know on the forum I enjoy reading. My next question would have been how to get more involved as a complete (older) newbie. Stuff it. Obviously I've mentioned some deep dark secret I'm not supposed to and hunting packs aren't as friendly to people like me as I thought. ps. I don't shop in lush either.
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Rubbish, thou protesteth too much and what gave the game away was "Foxhunting" there is none, so I am sure nobody could possibly shed any light on your disingenuous questions. Working Class, saw through it all like a plate glass window. LOL
 
Even if I was prepared to overlook the foxhunting comment - I'm afraid the working class comment was a dead giveaway. Really?
 
I guess its not a silly question if you don't know the answer. OP, unfortunately a lot of trolls will post wishing to cause trouble and certain statements in your post sort of point that way. So for the innocent poster it can come over as everyone being very harsh.
Fox hunting no longer exists, but Trail hunting does which obviously still uses hounds. I have no idea how hounds are dispatched and as far as I am concerned as long as it is done quickly and humanely in a situation that causes the animal no stress I am happy.
If you want to get involved find your nearest hunt and contact the secretary or tag along with someone who already rides or follows the hunt.
The beauty of hunts is the diversity of people involved, most people will be ordinary working people who work very hard to support and ride with the hunt.
 
I have no idea if you are genuine or not, but to get onto the topic, each packs carer is trained to shoot them cleanly and quickly in the back of the head with legally held weapons and licenses. They are given a special meal, and shot. Quick as that. Much like a horse would be shot if it needed to be. They are not aware of the action - even less aware than a dog who is taken to the vet and injected which is more stressful to a hound. Sabs will say anything to discredit the hunting community, and i might be feeding you some more ammo if you are a sab under cover, but there you go. Nothing unruly, no clubbing them to death, no strangling them or dumping them in the river - its all very above board and humane. As to why and when this is done, it depends on the dogs. Life in a pack is fast paced, and the dogs would be very stressed if they were left behind and they are totally unsuitable in most cases to rehome due to their insane prey drive which is a natural trait of any dog. Some, do however get long term homes and any that are not up to the job as yougnsters sometimes get rehomed with members of the hunting or farming community.
 
jrp204 said:
I guess its not a silly question if you don't know the answer. OP, unfortunately a lot of trolls will post wishing to cause trouble and certain statements in your post sort of point that way. So for the innocent poster it can come over as everyone being very harsh.
Fox hunting no longer exists, but Trail hunting does which obviously still uses hounds. I have no idea how hounds are dispatched and as far as I am concerned as long as it is done quickly and humanely in a situation that causes the animal no stress I am happy.
If you want to get involved find your nearest hunt and contact the secretary or tag along with someone who already rides or follows the hunt.
The beauty of hunts is the diversity of people involved, most people will be ordinary working people who work very hard to support and ride with the hunt.
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That's fantastic thank you that's all I wanted to know : ) Sort of separate but there are two packs near me-foxhounds and bloodhounds. Now the bloodhounds advise that you would benefit from some experience with foxhounds before going with bloodhounds BUT from a location point of view the bloodhounds are closer. Would it be a foolish thing to aim to go straight with bloodhounds? Or is it all pretty similar with regard to the speed you travel on horseback? x
 
equi said:
I have no idea if you are genuine or not, but to get onto the topic, each packs carer is trained to shoot them cleanly and quickly in the back of the head with legally held weapons and licenses. They are given a special meal, and shot. Quick as that. Much like a horse would be shot if it needed to be. They are not aware of the action - even less aware than a dog who is taken to the vet and injected which is more stressful to a hound. Sabs will say anything to discredit the hunting community, and i might be feeding you some more ammo if you are a sab under cover, but there you go. Nothing unruly, no clubbing them to death, no strangling them or dumping them in the river - its all very above board and humane. As to why and when this is done, it depends on the dogs. Life in a pack is fast paced, and the dogs would be very stressed if they were left behind and they are totally unsuitable in most cases to rehome due to their insane prey drive which is a natural trait of any dog. Some, do however get long term homes and any that are not up to the job as yougnsters sometimes get rehomed with members of the hunting or farming community.
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That's fabulous thank you that was what I thought so thank you for answering me politely : ) There are some bloomin' awful stories out there and I knew they were't true (they get fed to the other hounds and all this rubbish). Just didn't actually know. Thank you x
 
Judgemental said:
Rubbish, thou protesteth too much and what gave the game away was "Foxhunting" there is none, so I am sure nobody could possibly shed any light on your disingenuous questions. Working Class, saw through it all like a plate glass window. LOL
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That's OK my question was answered in a non-pompous manner by other users. And I'm very grateful to them. It was just what I thought - no cruelty involved : ) BTW might I suggest you don't look down your nose too much on the working class oiks like me - some of us have interests in the countryside too just aren't as fortunate to have as much of it around. Oh and regards the 'foxhunting' comment, everyone here just calls it that or says going with the foxhounds or hunt. Anyway, hopefully I can get ponio out and about and join in some of the fun- the people who spoke to me decently have renewed my dampened spirit. Best of luck to you, stay safe bit please God lets never meet x
 
Shay said:
Even if I was prepared to overlook the foxhunting comment - I'm afraid the working class comment was a dead giveaway. Really?
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Yep working class - slogged my guts out to be able to buy a horse, love dogs of any description, have friends who shoot and was looking at some fun for me and the horse. Keep reading everywhere that 'all are welcome' 'come and try hunting'. I suppose it depends who you hunt with judging by attitudes on here! Other posters answered my question so no worries : ) Take care of yourself.
 
Smellycob said:
Please forgive my ignorance on this subject! Hunting is something I am becoming increasingly interested in and having never been on a hunt in my life (I watched one from a distance many moons ago) I am trying to acquire as much knowledge as possible. With regards to foxhunting, obviously I am aware of the 'debate' and the emotions this evokes. With that in mind I would really like to find a straight answer to a question I have - what happens to hounds when they become too old/ are injured / not really up to it anymore? Is it the same for all breeds of hound? I am aware of the view that foxhounds are not pets so euthanasia is best and am pretty stoic about these things (I know with my horses God forbid but I'd rather PTS than pass around), but how are they euthanised (if they are)? Shooting? I suppose what I'm asking is what actually happens as the information I have found from my own research into this comes form biased sources... Many thanks in advance xxx
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If you have never hunted what business is it of your's concerning the hounds and why do you want to know and if you do elicit any information what difference is it going to make to you, or are you proposing to rehome a couple of hounds.

From what I have seen a very large Chip on the Shoulder is relevant. Perhaps you would do well to change your handle to 'Working Class'
 
Judgemental said:
If you have never hunted what business is it of your's concerning the hounds and why do you want to know and if you do elicit any information what difference is it going to make to you, or are you proposing to rehome a couple of hounds.

From what I have seen a very large Chip on the Shoulder is relevant. Perhaps you would do well to change your handle to 'Working Class'
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Your posts are entirely unnecessary at this point. Everyone must learn, and presuming they have not been tied to a shetland and dragged around a childs hunt from day dot, they have to do this later on in life. Not everyone who hunts wants to kill something, some just want a good bloody day out with their horse. Although, OP, i do think you need to be aware that in some cases the dogs do find an animal and do kill it - so mentally you must be prepared to take the good with the bad.
 
Judgemental said:
If you have never hunted what business is it of your's concerning the hounds and why do you want to know and if you do elicit any information what difference is it going to make to you, or are you proposing to rehome a couple of hounds.

From what I have seen a very large Chip on the Shoulder is relevant. Perhaps you would do well to change your handle to 'Working Class'
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My apologies but this turned into an essay. As far as I'm concerned we're done my friend but so we are clear:
1) I don't see the acquisition of knowledge as a bad thing, ignorance being an evil and all that. Perhaps if more people were clear on what actually happens out hunting, who is involved etc. you would garner further support?
2) Information I get stays with me or is used to correct people I hear or read about saying ridiculous things (did you know hounds go into pedigree chum? That's why its called that you see - its full of dog). It also goes towards my own conscience and allows me to seriously consider taking part in a new hobby with the knowledge of what, and for whom, my subscription would be funding. As for re-homing hounds- hadn't crossed my mind. Thinking on it now I'd be terrified I wouldn't care for them well enough!
4) Working class and yes VERY proud. I've worked bloody hard to get where I am thank you. I dislike being derided for my background, which is how I took your comments. You can have all the money you want (or not), be landed gentry, be the bloomin' Queen! I don't judge people on where they are from and simply ask the same. So yes I could have this as my handle but I don't think it should define me. I merely mentioned it to illustrate I have no one else at all to ask. The working class saw through it all comment...well I'm still not sure what you mean but I can only view it as a dig. You know, the whole working class scum thing. Which sits nicely with your other dig about chips on shoulders. Yup, I'm horribly jealous. It's class warfare. That's what I spend my days thinking about...(rolls eyes)

As a side point, I seem to get a lot of mixed messages regarding hunting. Horse and Hound, hunt websites and various facebook pages seem to want to encourage newbies. The poster here who mentioned a good mix of people - that is a message I see repeated often. Then there is the other side I see and hear about, where hunting is for an 'elite' or 'toffs' (and worse) and I'm sorry if it offends you but your post didn't help with that one. No, I've never hunted but yes, I'm sympathetic. I understand how frustrating it must be to have to protect livestock from vermin within the law (if foxes are classed as that-again it depends on whose facebook page I read) and to now follow a law that I gather many feel is ridiculous. HOWEVER my sympathy only stretches so far and the attitudes of the people involved in hunting, even if they are just perceived, has a lot to do with that. Nobody likes to feel like a mug and the messages on here from yourself seem to suggest I should stick to my place and mind my own business etc. If this wasn't how it was meant please correct me, but that is how I took it. The snide remarks of duplicity annoyed me no end too. I'm one of a very few people I know in my area who is actually interested in anything horsey/countryside/farming related and don't fancy sticking my neck on the line spouting the views of the pro-hunters (which I completely understand) to be unceremoniously shat on from a great height. Obviously I'm aware of the antis and sabs. Friends have told me terrible stories about children being pulled from ponies etc. and they have no reason to lie to me so I'm certain people do try to cause trouble for hunts and appreciate you have to watch what you say (especially on a forum) BUT innocent until proven guilty please.

All I'd really say I suppose is don't alienate people who would otherwise be allies. I'm not out to get you, just wanted to know a simple answer to a simple question. I concede my post maybe wasn't the best worded. But as far as answers go, I got it, now I know. I'll never have to ask again or feel stupid for being ignorant. As far as I'm concerned that's an end to it. Like I said before stay safe, no ill will to you x
 
Thank you for your support. I do think maybe my original post wasn't the best worded. Yes I am a later learner - only started riding at 17 and I'm not that now! As for hounds coming off trail I appreciate that can happen and hounds will do what they do. I'm not completely put off as it does seem like fun :)
 
Smellycob said:
My apologies but this turned into an essay. As far as I'm concerned we're done my friend but so we are clear:
1) I don't see the acquisition of knowledge as a bad thing, ignorance being an evil and all that. Perhaps if more people were clear on what actually happens out hunting, who is involved etc. you would garner further support?
2) Information I get stays with me or is used to correct people I hear or read about saying ridiculous things (did you know hounds go into pedigree chum? That's why its called that you see - its full of dog). It also goes towards my own conscience and allows me to seriously consider taking part in a new hobby with the knowledge of what, and for whom, my subscription would be funding. As for re-homing hounds- hadn't crossed my mind. Thinking on it now I'd be terrified I wouldn't care for them well enough!
4) Working class and yes VERY proud. I've worked bloody hard to get where I am thank you. I dislike being derided for my background, which is how I took your comments. You can have all the money you want (or not), be landed gentry, be the bloomin' Queen! I don't judge people on where they are from and simply ask the same. So yes I could have this as my handle but I don't think it should define me. I merely mentioned it to illustrate I have no one else at all to ask. The working class saw through it all comment...well I'm still not sure what you mean but I can only view it as a dig. You know, the whole working class scum thing. Which sits nicely with your other dig about chips on shoulders. Yup, I'm horribly jealous. It's class warfare. That's what I spend my days thinking about...(rolls eyes)

As a side point, I seem to get a lot of mixed messages regarding hunting. Horse and Hound, hunt websites and various facebook pages seem to want to encourage newbies. The poster here who mentioned a good mix of people - that is a message I see repeated often. Then there is the other side I see and hear about, where hunting is for an 'elite' or 'toffs' (and worse) and I'm sorry if it offends you but your post didn't help with that one. No, I've never hunted but yes, I'm sympathetic. I understand how frustrating it must be to have to protect livestock from vermin within the law (if foxes are classed as that-again it depends on whose facebook page I read) and to now follow a law that I gather many feel is ridiculous. HOWEVER my sympathy only stretches so far and the attitudes of the people involved in hunting, even if they are just perceived, has a lot to do with that. Nobody likes to feel like a mug and the messages on here from yourself seem to suggest I should stick to my place and mind my own business etc. If this wasn't how it was meant please correct me, but that is how I took it. The snide remarks of duplicity annoyed me no end too. I'm one of a very few people I know in my area who is actually interested in anything horsey/countryside/farming related and don't fancy sticking my neck on the line spouting the views of the pro-hunters (which I completely understand) to be unceremoniously shat on from a great height. Obviously I'm aware of the antis and sabs. Friends have told me terrible stories about children being pulled from ponies etc. and they have no reason to lie to me so I'm certain people do try to cause trouble for hunts and appreciate you have to watch what you say (especially on a forum) BUT innocent until proven guilty please.

All I'd really say I suppose is don't alienate people who would otherwise be allies. I'm not out to get you, just wanted to know a simple answer to a simple question. I concede my post maybe wasn't the best worded. But as far as answers go, I got it, now I know. I'll never have to ask again or feel stupid for being ignorant. As far as I'm concerned that's an end to it. Like I said before stay safe, no ill will to you x
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I like you. Do stick around.
 
Smellycob said:
My apologies but this turned into an essay. As far as I'm concerned we're done my friend but so we are clear:
1) I don't see the acquisition of knowledge as a bad thing, ignorance being an evil and all that. Perhaps if more people were clear on what actually happens out hunting, who is involved etc. you would garner further support?
2) Information I get stays with me or is used to correct people I hear or read about saying ridiculous things (did you know hounds go into pedigree chum? That's why its called that you see - its full of dog). It also goes towards my own conscience and allows me to seriously consider taking part in a new hobby with the knowledge of what, and for whom, my subscription would be funding. As for re-homing hounds- hadn't crossed my mind. Thinking on it now I'd be terrified I wouldn't care for them well enough!
4) Working class and yes VERY proud. I've worked bloody hard to get where I am thank you. I dislike being derided for my background, which is how I took your comments. You can have all the money you want (or not), be landed gentry, be the bloomin' Queen! I don't judge people on where they are from and simply ask the same. So yes I could have this as my handle but I don't think it should define me. I merely mentioned it to illustrate I have no one else at all to ask. The working class saw through it all comment...well I'm still not sure what you mean but I can only view it as a dig. You know, the whole working class scum thing. Which sits nicely with your other dig about chips on shoulders. Yup, I'm horribly jealous. It's class warfare. That's what I spend my days thinking about...(rolls eyes)

As a side point, I seem to get a lot of mixed messages regarding hunting. Horse and Hound, hunt websites and various facebook pages seem to want to encourage newbies. The poster here who mentioned a good mix of people - that is a message I see repeated often. Then there is the other side I see and hear about, where hunting is for an 'elite' or 'toffs' (and worse) and I'm sorry if it offends you but your post didn't help with that one. No, I've never hunted but yes, I'm sympathetic. I understand how frustrating it must be to have to protect livestock from vermin within the law (if foxes are classed as that-again it depends on whose facebook page I read) and to now follow a law that I gather many feel is ridiculous. HOWEVER my sympathy only stretches so far and the attitudes of the people involved in hunting, even if they are just perceived, has a lot to do with that. Nobody likes to feel like a mug and the messages on here from yourself seem to suggest I should stick to my place and mind my own business etc. If this wasn't how it was meant please correct me, but that is how I took it. The snide remarks of duplicity annoyed me no end too. I'm one of a very few people I know in my area who is actually interested in anything horsey/countryside/farming related and don't fancy sticking my neck on the line spouting the views of the pro-hunters (which I completely understand) to be unceremoniously shat on from a great height. Obviously I'm aware of the antis and sabs. Friends have told me terrible stories about children being pulled from ponies etc. and they have no reason to lie to me so I'm certain people do try to cause trouble for hunts and appreciate you have to watch what you say (especially on a forum) BUT innocent until proven guilty please.

All I'd really say I suppose is don't alienate people who would otherwise be allies. I'm not out to get you, just wanted to know a simple answer to a simple question. I concede my post maybe wasn't the best worded. But as far as answers go, I got it, now I know. I'll never have to ask again or feel stupid for being ignorant. As far as I'm concerned that's an end to it. Like I said before stay safe, no ill will to you x
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I do rather find myself in approval of all that! :D

In answer to your opening question and regarding elderly hounds which can no longer hunt, with the possible exception of the odd hound which has managed to inveigle it's way in to the affections of Hunt staff, they're quite correctly put to sleep. There is no other alternative if Hunstman and Master are to consider the well being of the individual animal, or the pack.

Alec.
 
Alec Swan said:
I do rather find myself in approval of all that! :D

In answer to your opening question and regarding elderly hounds which can no longer hunt, with the possible exception of the odd hound which has managed to inveigle it's way in to the affections of Hunt staff, they're quite correctly put to sleep. There is no other alternative if Hunstman and Master are to consider the well being of the individual animal, or the pack.

Alec.
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Thats it OP, youre staying....Sir Alec has approved you!!
 
I didn't grow up in a horsey family, or area, and was a late comer to hunting. In terms of how welcoming they are, I've only had limited experience. On the whole I'd say yes generally they are welcoming, but even with neighbouring hunts I've found a slightly different atmosphere, so you may want to try a few and see how you get on.

Have to say, I did think your qu was a bit odd OP so can understand why some found it suspicious.
 
Bernster said:
I didn't grow up in a horsey family, or area, and was a late comer to hunting. In terms of how welcoming they are, I've only had limited experience. On the whole I'd say yes generally they are welcoming, but even with neighbouring hunts I've found a slightly different atmosphere, so you may want to try a few and see how you get on.

Have to say, I did think your qu was a bit odd OP so can understand why some found it suspicious.
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Quite. Which is why i waited for a few replies from OP first. And the reply i got from my post was encouraging. If they are under cover, they are doing it well and saying everything we would expect someone who is genuine to say; so for this one i'm giving a benefit of doubt for.
 
Smellycob said:
Anyway, hopefully I can get ponio out and about and join in some of the fun- the people who spoke to me decently have renewed my dampened spirit. Best of luck to you, stay safe bit please God lets never meet x
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You've said to J what many of us have thought over the years, well done!

Bloodhounds tend to be a bit faster; they sometimes have two trails, one for mere mortals or beginners, the other for those that want to go like stink and jump themselves stupid. If you want to see hounds work then the foxhounds are better IMHO but if you prefer the riding then the blood or draghounds might suit you better. Hope you enjoy whichever you choose or try both and see what suits you better.
 
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