Hounds chasing Stags Banned in UK

20 Dec 07

The Associated Press reported that a new ban has been imposed on the use of hounds to chase stag in hunt meetings.

Environment Minister John Gormley imposed strict conditions in relation to the welfare, conservation and protection of animals and the public.

Instead of having dogs pursue a deer, the animal will be released to lay a scent trail along the course and recaptured before the hounds are freed and the hunt gets under way, he said.

It seems to me that this will still be stressful to the animals, but on the up-side, the use of hounds has not been completely outlawed, which means that countryside hounds will still have the opportunity to have a good run around.

The news agency also reported that these strict new rules will be monitored by civil servants.

Awoof! Archie