Hunting trailing (from the English trailing - to follow the trail) is a traditional type of cynological sport in Cumbria , a county in the north-west of England . Currently, he is also known in other areas in the north of England and in Ireland . Dogs looking for a trail, originally English Foxhounds , follow a route located in rugged terrain about 16 kilometers long, marked by an artificial smell: anise oil or kerosene.
This sport is a gambling game similar to horse racing. Participants make money bets, and the winner also receives a cash prize. This sport is an imitation of hunting without killing, injuring and stalking a wild animal. [one]
History
Hunting trailing originated in the 18th century, when a debate arose over which of the two sets of foxhounds was faster. Later, they marked the route with aniseed oil and kerosene. The first organization of hunting trailing was created back in 1906.
Trackhounds
Initially, foxhounds were used in the competition. Over the years, breeding has been used to improve the speed of dogs in this sport. The Hunting Trailing Association said that the English Foxhounds can no longer take part in such competitions due to insufficient speed. However, trying to cross Foxhounds with track hounds can be a good attempt to improve the breed. It is believed that after three generations of such crossbreeding dogs have achieved decent rates of speed.
Retired dogs, hounds that worsen the result of racing packs and dogs from birth too slow to compete, become regular pets for new owners.
Modern Hunting Trailing
Dog owners register them in one of the associations, regularly pay membership fees. The season runs from March 1 to October 31 of each year. Races are held several times a week during this entire period. Participants and fans gather at the beginning of the track, often there are bookmaker stalls, food and drink are sold. Markers hand out a rag-soaked rag along the route, leaving a mark imitating the movement of a wild animal, such as a fox. Dogs line up and are held by the owners until the starting shot. After the start, they are lowered to run along the route. The duration of the race usually ranges between 25 and 45 minutes. [2] A winning dog that has achieved good results in a particular race or in the general league results table is decorated with ribbons and rosettes, awarded with a cup and a cash prize.
- ↑ Trail hunting FAQs . National Trust. Date of treatment June 20, 2019.
- ↑ Trail Laying (English) (unopened) ? . Hunting Act. Date of treatment June 20, 2019.