DRAG HUNTING Meaning and
Definition
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Drag hunting is a form of equestrian sport and recreation that involves following a pre-determined scent trail or "drag" laid down by a human runner or horse. It is often considered a simulation of traditional fox hunting, but without the pursuit and capture of live quarry.
In drag hunting, a person or a horse is armed with an object, such as a scented rag or a bag filled with aromatic materials, which is then dragged along a predetermined route, leaving a scent trail for the hounds or dogs to follow. The hounds, typically a pack of specially-trained scent hounds, then follow the scent, with mounted riders known as "followers" following them on horseback.
One of the key aspects of drag hunting is that it is cruelty-free and does not involve the hunting of live animals. The scent trail is planned to be challenging and varied, often involving jumps, obstacles, and terrain changes, to simulate the excitement of a traditional hunt. Drag hunting is seen as a safe alternative to fox hunting, as it eliminates the controversial aspects associated with live hunting and focuses primarily on the enjoyment of riders and their horses.
Drag hunting is a popular activity in many countries and is often associated with equestrian clubs or hunting associations. It provides an opportunity for riders of various skill levels to participate in a thrilling and challenging equestrian sport without causing harm to wildlife.
Etymology of DRAG HUNTING
The word "drag hunting" has its origins in 19th-century England. The term "drag" originally referred to a trail or scent that was left behind, typically by dragging an object such as a cloth soaked in animal scent or blood to create a false scent trail for hunting hounds.
The practice of drag hunting emerged as a sport or recreation alternative to traditional fox hunting, where live foxes were chased and hunted by hounds. In drag hunting, a pre-laid scent trail is followed by the hounds and riders, mimicking the thrill of the chase without the actual pursuit and kill of live animals.
As for the etymology, the term "drag" in the context of hunting can be traced back to the Middle English word "dragen" or "draggen", which means to pull or drag along. It likely evolved from the Latin word "trahere", which has a similar meaning.
