Rules and expectations for a safe fun meet

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• The Master of Fox Hounds (MFH) is in charge in the field; to help him are a huntsman and whips. Give the staff complete right of way and obey requests promptly and willingly. Be far enough away so as not to interfere with their work and do not attempt to assist unless asked to do so.
   

• Never speak to the hounds. They are working , you will only confuse them if you speak.
   

• Never override your Field-master, always follow and stay behind your Field-master. This is for the safety of you, your horse and the hounds.
   

• Always listen to any direction from your field master they know best and they are respecting any wishes from the land owner.
   

• Don’t crowd the horse in front. Watch out for checks; be able to pull up your horse in plenty of time.  At checks, keep behind and well away from the hounds.
   

• When hacking between runs, the field should keep as compact as possible behind the Field Master.  When in traffic you must keep to the right, going single file and yield to traffic.
   

• Visitors should give way to members and keep well back until thoroughly familiar with their horse and with the procedure of the hunt.
   

• Spectators following in cars must keep behind or well to the side of the line of hunt.
   

• Remember hunting is not a race. Ride safely and sanely and be sure you can fulfill the requirement of safety.
   

• If your horse is unruly go to the back of your field and stay out of peoples way.
   

• Never run into another horse to try and stop or slow down  yours.
   

• Report any damages to property to the Field-master, particularly to fencing or jumps.
   

• Close all the gates after passing through. It is proper to designate one person to close the gates; a courtesy is for a second person to wait for them.
   

• Allow at least 30 minutes before the scheduled departure of the hunt to have sufficient time to saddle your horse and present yourself to the Masters.
   

• Proper dress is desired. Occasional riders to the hunt and juniors always have permission to wear “rat-catcher”( informal dress worn during cub hunting season). Black, brown or grey tweed coat. Tan, buff or brown breeches. Black or brown boots. Hunt cap with harness.
  White shirt and white stock with plain gold stock pin. 
   

• Clean riding attire in good repair and suitable for the weather is fine for guests.
  See any of the Masters should you have any questions or if you need guidance on appointments or attire.
   

• Should you bring a guest to the meet, please introduce them to the Masters and the Secretary.
   

• Assure their safety by providing them with this information so they understand the rules. Also see that the guest signs a release form and pays their capping fee.
   

• These guidelines are in place to help keep everyone safe, to maintain the traditions of the hunt and to provide an enjoyable day of sport in our hunt field.
   
                                                                     Tally Ho!