The E-Word

                                                  "The English gentleman galloping after a fox-the unspeakable in full

                                                                        pursuit of the uneatable"

                                                                               Oscar Wilde

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The most dreaded and most misunderstood word in fox hunting, Etiquette evokes images of dolly-toting pansies in tight pants and red coats observing a mysterious code of manners for drinking tea or something equally as pretentious. Perhaps some of the arcane observances of fox hunting may fall into this off-putting category, but in the main, the rules of etiquette are there to protect the "sport" or fun and keep everyone, including the hounds as safe as possible.

Keep in mind that the main focus of the hunt is to show good sport, meaning the hounds are finding and chasing their coyote. The huntsman and the staff are concentrating very hard on this objective and any conversation overheard from those following in the Field is disheartening, to say the least! Keep conversation to a minimum and speak quietly please.

The safety of the hounds is paramount, so always be cautious around the hounds. If the hounds and staff must pass by you, always turn your horse's head toward the hounds and give them the right of way. Never, ever come between the hounds and the staff or huntsman, nor should you ever speak to a hound. Keep wide of the hounds and stay with your Fieldmaster and you will never risk these faux pas.

The Fieldmaster is there to pilot you through the country hunted by the hounds and is responsible as so far as he can be for your safety. Stay with the group, but if you must leave, tell the Fieldmaster so he won't think you've gone missing. If you need to get off at a hold, you must ask for permission or else you might get left afoot when everyone suddenly blows out of the hold in fast pursuit of a coyote. Don't bring green or problem horses into the field. If you are new, stay in the rear. If your horse kicks, tie a red ribbon in hid tail and keep him to the back of the field.

Going out with the hounds, try to arrive in time to be mounted and ready at the appointed hour and leave yourself time to find the Field Secretary and pay your capping fee. A simple "Good Morning" or perhaps a quick introduction is all that is needed. When coming in with the hound, stay mounted and with your Fieldmaster until the hounds are kenneled. After the horses are settled and everyone sits down for lunch, your questions will be received with enthusiasm. Leave no trash behind after lunch, and please don't clean out your trailer at the hunt fixture.

Hunting with hounds is very, very ancient. Hounds are finely bred and the pride of the hunt. Don't call them dogs! Remember every hound is a dog, but not every dog is a hound! A lot of hunting terminology is a mix of old English and French, so it is easy to look like a neophyte when trying to pronounce some of these tongue twisters. When you see the word "covert" it is from the French meaning where the fox is hiding. It is very commonly used to indicate a place to be looking for foxes or coyote, but usually mispronounced. Just say "COVER." That is the proper pronunciation in English.

Etiquette, Etiquette, Etiquette. It's all about having fun and being safe in the "Sport of Kings."

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