Mounted search and rescue

[ALLEN SNYDER <allendana1@sbcglobal.net>]

All the helpful input that has come from all over the country is saved in a 
separate computer file because I can't recall it all.  All of the ideas from 
K. Nesbitt in IL are also great.  
   
  For those who have a local hunting group that works their hounds with 
horses, it is a good way to bring along a greener prospect and to see what 
they are made of.  Ideally, if they will allow you to come late summer when 
cubbing season starts, you would be able to walk and ride in the field while 
the hounds are learning.  Horses get exposed to the hounds in a relatively 
low-key situation including learning not to kick or strike out if fear if a 
hound runs up behind.  It is normal the first time a horse is startled or 
exposed to dogs to behave that way, but owner/riders need to immediately 
correct or let their mount know they should not do that every time 
thereafter.  It would be tragic if a working search dog were hurt.  I would 
of course, ask for permission from the huntsman first or if you know a 
member, you could visit as a guest.
   
  One of the advantages of hunting is it is potentially rigorous riding and 
good for fitness of horse and rider.  For safety, it is expected  that horses 
who may kick or strike when another horse is close, wear a red ribbon tied or 
braided into the tail as a reminder.  
   
  Do MSAR groups have any proposed standard to identify greener or more 
anxious horses to riders that may be following?