Saturday, November 1, 2014

Find Field Hunters For Sale In NC

By Roseann Hudson


Foxhunting, the ultimate thrill on horseback, is popular in North Carolina. Both recognized and informal packs are based in the state, with territories that range from southern Virginia to South Carolina. Finding field hunters for sale in NC is easier in prime hunting territory.

True foxhunters are different from show hunters. Showing demands soundness, good ring manners, a smooth gait, and consistency over jumps. Excellent conformation helps impress judges who have to choose between evenly-matched contestants. In the field, the most important thing is an ability to 'get over the ground' safely while exhibiting good manners. A field hunter must avoid trees and holes, cross creeks and ditches without a fuss, and safely negotiate all kinds of obstacles.

The fox may run through woods, across open fields, through long grass and brush, and over creeks. This presents a challenge for both horse and rider. The horse needs to be fit and agile, while the rider needs to help as much and hinder as little as possible.

Horses must be fit, because a hunt can last for hours. If the fox runs across open country, the pace can be swift. The horse needs to stand quietly if the fox chooses instead to lurk in a thicket. If a scent is lost, the staff will gather the hounds and cast them again, hoping to find either the quarry or another fox. This may mean following slowly while hounds work.

Enjoyment of the day depends on having a horse with manners. The horse should like being with a group without competing for the front position. It must be sound, with good feet and no leg or wind problems. It should stand and move off quietly, respect other horses and the hounds, never kick, and stop on the command of the rider no matter how exciting things get.

No one enjoys having an ill-mannered horse in the group. Such a mount is neither safe nor fun for its rider. It may excite other horses, bother the hounds, irritate the staff, and make the whole day one long struggle. At worst, such an animal may run away, stumble over obstacles, or - horror of horrors - pass the field master on open runs.

It's possible to find good horses anywhere. Often a sensible trail horse will make a safe hunter. A reliable, experienced horse may be for sale because the owner has retired from riding, gone off to school, or moved up to another mount. A vet check can establish soundness, and manners can be observed by watching the horse in action. It's permissible to follow the hunt on foot or by car. Sometimes a horse can be taken on trial before the purchase is finalized.

The type of hunt and territory dictate what is a suitable horse. Formal hunts may prefer solid color animals, although the prohibition against spotted horses no longer exists. Open country means fast going, so large thoroughbreds may be best. Mountainous, wooded terrain calls for smaller, agile horses. People who hilltop will not need a horse strong and fast enough to go with the first flight.




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