Horse Sense (HS): Fergus, what does a typical day look like at the kennels – both during the summer and in the midst of hunting season?
Fergus Stokes (FS): At this time of year, we start early – around 6.30am. We get the hounds out before it gets too warm. Three of us head out on hound exercise: myself, the whipper-in, and the kennel man. We usually cover about five miles. It’s more than just a fitness exercise – it’s a chance for the hounds to get out of the kennels, interact with people and other animals, and just stay fresh and happy.
HS: And what about during the hunting season?
FS: It’s still a 6.30 start during the season. We begin by washing down the yards and giving the hounds a stretch. Then we go through them all, pick who’s hunting that day – typically around 16½ couple, a mix of doghounds and bitches. The rest are fed and checked to make sure everyone’s fit and healthy. Then we’re off to the meet, ready for about 10am and setting off by 11.
HS: How many hounds do you keep at the kennels?
FS: We’ve around 60 hounds, evenly split between dogs and bitches. They’re all Old English lines, bred from the original bloodlines of the Belvoir Hunt in England. The Limerick hounds have followed these lines for over a century now. It’s a very traditional pack and we’re proud of that heritage.
HS: What do you think makes a good hound – and what should people know about them that they might not realise?
FS: A good hound is one that works well in the team and has the right temperament. They’re all individuals – each with their own strengths. Some are better at picking up a line after a check on the road, others shine when scenting through slurry fields, and some are exceptional at finding a fox in the first place. They hunt as a pack, as a unit, and that’s what really matters.
Something people might not realise is how sociable and friendly hounds are. We’d really encourage anyone at a meet – or at a summer show – to come up, say hello, and meet them. Each one loves a fuss. If you see the pack out and about, don’t be shy. We love when people come up and have a chat.
HS: And if someone were to come across a lost hound while they’re out and about on a walk, what should they do?
FS: Please know that someone will always be out looking. We never leave a hound behind where possible. If you do find one, contact the local hunt or pass word to someone involved – it’ll save us a great deal of time and worry. We’re always grateful for that kind of help, no matter what time of day it is.
HS: How long have you been with the Limerick Hunt?
FS: This is my 14th season. I did two years as a whipper-in before becoming huntsman, so 12 years carrying the horn.
HS: Let’s talk breeding. Is there a particular dog or bitch you favour for mating? How does the breeding programme work?
FS: We breed to complement attributes, not just to pair the best with the best. You might have a dog that’s particularly good at drawing and a bitch that’s excellent on the road – we aim to marry traits that balance well together. It’s about creating the ideal team player, not a standout individual.
We’ve had great success with certain lines. One of our standout sires was Sizzler, who produced Tartan. Sizzler stamps all of his offspring with great accuracy and drive, he himself was by Duhallow Trooper, who goes back to Limerick Tartan. That line’s done very well for us.
HS: How many pups do you breed each year?
Fergus Stokes: We usually enter around 12 couple each season – so that’s about 24 puppies. When they’re around 12 weeks old, they go out walking with puppy walkers.
Socialisation is a huge part of their development. We’re lucky to have people who take them into their homes and help them get used to the world. They often sacrifice their washing for a while – puppies will chew just about anything! But it makes all the difference.
HS: And how does that socialisation affect them later on?
Fergus Stokes: Hugely. These hounds are so friendly because of the care and handling they get early on. You see them out hunting and they’re laser-focused on the job, but back at home, they’re just like pets – playful and full of character. We couldn’t do it without our puppy walkers, and it shows in the hounds’ temperaments.
HS: It’s been a pleasure hearing more about the magnificent Limerick Hunt hounds, thank you.
FS: You’re very welcome. It’s something I love, and we’re always happy to share it with people.
Come and meet the hounds sometime – they’ll be delighted!
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