Foxhunting in America
by Chrysann Collatos
The diaries of George Washington, who imported hounds from Britain
in the 1770’s, provide some of our earliest records of foxhunting in America. The
president recalls a day when hounds ran near the capitol while congress was in session.
Not only did congressmen run out to watch, but several jumped onto their horses,
disappearing with the chase! Two historic packs of hounds still alive today are the
Canadian Montreal Hunt, 1826, and the Virginia Piedmont Foxhounds, 1840.
In 2000, the Masters of Foxhounds Association of America recognizes
169 packs of foxhounds. Strict requirements concerning kennel conditions and breeding
programs are a prerequisite for recognition. The MFHA, a non-profit corporation
established in 1907, insists on compliance with its rules and standards to ensure the
highest level of animal care and sportsmanship. Membership fees collected by recognized
hunts are used to maintain the hounds and support hunt associated expenses.
The flavor of hunting in North America differs distinctly from the
British. Specifically, our pursuit of game is primarily a chase, without intent to kill.
This is particularly true in the West, where our quarry is the coyote, and our territory
the desert. Our high dry terrain and sage odor provide our hounds an extreme scenting
challenge. The coyote’s speed, endurance, and large natural territory compound this
difficulty.
______________
For members of the Red Rock Hounds, following coyotes with hounds
does not involve killing; it involves immersing ourselves in natural beauty while we
experience an enthralling relationship with animals. |
