Exciting drag hunt: 50 horses and riders conquer the fields in Staffelde!

Exciting drag hunt: 50 horses and riders conquer the fields in Staffelde!

The drag hunt in Staffelde was very popular last Saturday. In brilliant weather, numerous riders and their loyal companions, the dogs, gathered at twelve o'clock to take part in this traditional event. In total there were 50 riders and 14 dogs who rode on a fixed circular route through the area around Flatow. Malte Voigts, head of the Kremmen asparagus farm and part of the organizational team, gave the starting signal for the hunt.

This bloodless form of hunting has a long history, as riding behind dogs is one of humanity's oldest forms of hunting. Originally a necessity for hunting, the event has evolved over the centuries into a leisure activity, especially for nobles. There are around 5,000 active riders in Germany today who enjoy nature and the community once or twice a week [drfv] reports that...

Tracks and traditions

The special thrill of the drag hunt comes from the track, which is laid in advance with a mixture of aniseed oil and water. This track – called “scent” in hunting parlance – is spread on the ground every five to ten meters so that the dogs can follow this scent. Meanwhile, the participants ride across fields and meadows and have to overcome various obstacles. A real place to strengthen team spirit between humans and animals!

The tradition of drag hunting is characterized by many customs that come from different countries, especially from English and French models. At the end of each hunting ride, participants receive a small “break” that serves as a souvenir - usually made from an oak branch or spruce branch. These small gestures are important to emphasize community and cohesion.

• Reiter tragen rote Röcke, die ihre Sichtbarkeit im dichten Wald und bei Nebel erhöhen.
• Das Plastron kann im Notfall sogar als Bandage verwendet werden.
• Früher wurde die Schleppe mit aufwändigen Methoden gelegt, heute geht man, dank moderner Technik, viel effizienter mit einem Tropfkanister vor.

Drag hunting not only promotes the connection between humans, animals and the environment, it also respects animal welfare, as hunting live game has been prohibited by law since the 1930s. The “Schwarzenstein Declaration”, which was passed in 2002, underlines the importance of hunting in relation to flora and fauna and obliges everyone involved to treat nature responsibly.

The spectators present, led by local mayor Heino Hornemann, spent a sociable day. Carpools were formed to make the event even more sociable. The drag hunt in Staffelde impressively shows how tradition, community and nature experience go hand in hand - and not only for the riders and dogs, but also for the entire community.

For the participants and spectators, the 9th drag hunt in Staffelde was a complete success and certainly a highlight in the region's event calendar. Such events not only strengthen the community, but also promote awareness of nature and its resources.