Too far?

[spotty_pony]

So the bloodhounds are meeting just over 3 miles from me next Saturday. Quite a straight forward hack to get there, meet is at 12 to move off at 12.30. I’m umming and ahhing about going. I wouldn’t have thought twice about it a few years ago but my boy is 23 now (although very fit and usually still pulling my arms out at the end of a hunt!) so I’m just wondering whether I should still go or if it would be too much now - I know I know him best and ultimately I’ll make the right decision but I was thinking about going and only running a line or two (there is usually 4 lines) but I know he will be annoyed about not being allowed to do it all - he would get over it though - but I think hacking there and back and doing the whole thing is a bit much now - largely due to his age not due to any physical reason!

 

[Equi]

Would you regularly do a hack that’s 6miles or more? Can you not get transport for the short journey to save a bit of energy?

 

[spotty_pony]

Would you regularly do a hack that’s 6miles or more? Can you not get transport for the short journey to save a bit of energy?

Yes, he would be fine with the 6 miles it’s just the end. I am seeing if anybody can give me a lift back but it’s hard as he only goes in a 7.5 tonne so I’m very limited! The one I usually borrow is an hours drive away and I haven’t booked it for next weekend (it’s almost not worth the hassle of picking it up to take him just down the road - I like to go
further usually if I am borrowing it.

 

[Pearlsacarolsinger]

I don't see the problem tbh. Is it possible that one of the lines will be back towards home for you? If so, I would do that one and then take him home, even if that is one of the last lines.
Otherwise just do as much as you think he can cope with, bearing in mind that you have to get home. You could always lead him the last 3 miles home if you think he is tired.

 

[spotty_pony]

I don't see the problem tbh. Is it possible that one of the lines will be back towards home for you? If so, I would do that one and then take him home, even if that is one of the last lines.
Otherwise just do as much as you think he can cope with, bearing in mind that you have to get home. You could always lead him the last 3 miles home if you think he is tired.

Knowing him he won’t be tired until he gets home. ? the last line will be towards the meet so depending on where we end up may be best to wait and head back then? I need to be back before it gets too dark but they are usually all done by about 3pm and it’s staying light a bit longer now. I’m umming and ahhing so will have a think but if we get no rain all week as forecast then the ground should be ok.

 

[Equi]

How about so the two middle lines. That way you’re heading for home.