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Terms & Conditions for riding with The Wessex Bloodhounds 

ACCEPTANCE OF RISK
Horse riding and participation in hunt-related activities are inherently dangerous. By participating, riders acknowledge and accept all risks associated with equestrian activities, including but not limited to falls, kicks, bites, collisions, uneven terrain, road crossings, weather conditions, livestock, wildlife, and the unpredictable behavior of horses, hounds, and other riders.

RIDER RESPONSIBILITY
All riders participate entirely at their own risk and are responsible for ensuring they are physically capable and suitably experienced to control their horse in open countryside, near hounds, livestock, vehicles, and groups of riders.

HORSE SUITABILITY
Riders must ensure that their horse:

  • Is fit, healthy, and adequately trained for hunting activities;

  • Is properly shod and equipped;

  • Does not pose a danger to hounds, horses, riders, spectators, or livestock;

  • Has up to date vaccinations for equine influenza

SAFETY EQUIPMENT

Approved riding helmets meeting current safety standards must be worn at all times while mounted. Appropriate footwear and riding attire are required. Body protectors are optional.

CONDUCT
All riders are expected to behave respectfully and safely at all times,
 following the route taken by the Field Master. Dangerous riding, abusive behavior, intoxication, mistreatment of animals, or failure to follow instructions from hunt officials may result in immediate removal from the event without refund.

COMPLIANCE WITH INSTRUCTIONS
Riders must obey all directions given by hunt officials, Masters, Field Masters, stewards, landowners, and designated representatives.

LAND ACCESS AND PROPERTY
Participants must respect farmland, livestock, crops, fences, gates, and private property at all times. Riders may be held financially responsible for damage caused by themselves or their horse.

LIABILITY WAIVER
To the fullest extent permitted by law, The Wessex Bloodhounds, its officers, staff, volunteers, landowners, and affiliates accept no liability for any injury, illness, death, loss, theft, damage, or expense incurred by participants, spectators, or horses arising from participation in hunt activities.

INSURANCE
Riders must be 
covered for personal and third-party claims by a reputable insurance company that specifically covers the sport of hunting.

WEATHER AND CANCELLATION
The Wessex Bloodhounds reserves the right to alter, postpone, or cancel activities due to weather, ground conditions, safety concerns, disease outbreaks, or unforeseen circumstances. In the event of cancellation, riders may request a refund or transfer their cap to another Meet.

CHILDREN AND MINORS
Participants under the age of 18 must have permission from a parent or legal guardian. The supervising adult accepts responsibility for the minor’s participation and conduct.

PHOTOGRAPHY AND MEDIA
Participants consent to photographs and video recordings being taken during events and used by The Wessex Bloodhounds for promotional, social media, or administrative purposes unless written notice is provided in advance.

ANIMAL WELFARE
All riders and participants must comply with applicable animal welfare laws and standards. Any form of cruelty or neglect toward horses will not be tolerated.

PRIVACY POLICY

Information given when booking in for Meets and events will be held in accordance with The Wessex Bloodhounds Privacy Policy click here to read.

AGREEMENT

In attending meets and/or events organised by The Wessex Bloodhounds, participants agree to these Terms & Conditions.​

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