Tuesday March 19, 2024
For National Pony Club updates and information please go to pcuk.org
Hunting Meets & Etiquette


The South Dorset Hunt has some of the most beautiful and varied country in the UK Hunting runs from late August through until the end of March and the Masters warmly welcome pony club members.  There are a couple of designated Pony Club meets during the season which are free to members, for other meets there will be a visitors cap to pay, the rate depends on age.  To receive information about forthcoming meets you will need to visit the Hunt Website and contact the Hon Secretary and ask to be added to the WhatsApp group at a cost of £5 per season.  

The South Dorset Hunt work within the law as defined under The Hunting Act 2004.

Autumn Hunting: Late August to the Opening Meet

Spring Hunting: March until the end of the season

Hunting contact: Claire Ferguson claire@studlandbay.co.uk

Hunting etiquette can be considered under three main headings:

Safety, good manners and turnout. Of these, the first two are more important, but the third is the one that everyone worries about, so here goes…..

Turnout Rider:

A tweed jacket, Pony Club badge, fawn breeches, a white or cream shirt with a Pony Club tie or stock, black or brown boots and a velvet cap or jockey skull cap with dark silk and hair net for those with long hair.

Do not wear jewellery or make up.

Remember you are representing your Pony Club and by looking smart you are honouring the generosity of people who have invited you to ride over their land and the skill and hard work of the hunt staff.

People over the ages of 18 are allowed to wear a hunting jacket which is a Black or Navy Wool Jacket with a white stock, do not get this mixed up with your Black show Jacket which is unsuitable for hunting. Hunting Jackets are much warmer and hardier for the purpose of being out in the hunting field all day. For Spring and Autumn Hunting everyone wears tweed Jackets and doesn’t plait.

Turnout Horse/Pony:

Horses and ponies should be well turned out, their tack should be well maintained and  clean, horses should be plaited unless it’s spring or autumn hunting, ponies don’t need to be plaited.

Safety:

Always allow yourself plenty of time to find the meet, if possible follow somebody who has been before and park your trailer in a safe place, not blocking any access to other road users.   Before you set off check your equipment, most people travel their horse/ponies tacked up as it is difficult to tack up on the side of the road with others riding by, but bring spare tack in case of breakages on the way.

If you or your pony/ horse is new to hunting tie a green ribbon to its tail, if your pony/horse kicks out tie a red ribbon to its tail and ride at the back, if required tie both!  This warns other riders not to get too close to you, in case your pony does do anything silly.

Make sure your pony/horse is fit to ride, shod and well. And remember to bring suitable rugs, hay net and water for when you return, your pony will be tired and sweaty and you need to keep him warm and hydrated.

Good Manners

Always say “Good Morning” to the Masters, Huntsman and hunt secretary to whom you must hand your cap ( your fee)  if you haven’t already paid by bank transfer.

Be as polite and helpful as you can whilst out hunting and remember at the end of the day or when you have decided it’s time to leave always say “Good Night” to others around you, this is not only polite, but it also lets everyone know you are leaving to go home and are not lost.

 

Helpful Tips and Advice !

* Start with Autumn Hunting, this begins August/September.  It’s a slower paced hunt, there is no need to plait and you wear tweed. It’s a great way of getting your pony used to the hounds.

*Don’t over horse yourself! Ponies and horses react differently when hunting, it’s exciting, its fast! Make sure you know your pony and that you have the correct bit in, you will need to be able to pull your pony up from a gallop.

*Don’t overtake the Field Master and always listen to his/her instructions.

*You don’t have to jump, only do what you feel you and your pony are capable of. There is always an alternative way.

* It’s a long day, have a big breakfast and take plenty of chocolate in your pockets to keep your energy levels up!

*Likewise for your pony, make sure he’s in tip top condition as you are expecting him to keep you going all day and keep you safe!

*Expect to get muddy and be prepared for lots of cleaning when you get home!

*Most of all have fun with your friends!