MOUNTED FOXHUNTING
Founded 1859
The national governing body for registered mounted foxhound packs in Ireland, one of the country's oldest field-sports associations.
The IMFHA was founded in 1859 to govern hunting disputes, encourage the preservation of foxes, and regulate all matters connected to foxhunting in Ireland. It today represents 42 registered packs, each with its own defined hunt country and kennels, bound to the association's rules through their Masters.
Registered packs hunt the fox in its wild, natural state across a defined hunt country, with an emphasis placed on the art of venery — the chase itself — rather than the kill; hunts also run point-to-point steeplechases as fundraisers.
Organised foxhunting protects the small bogs, coverts and hedgerows that provide hunt-country habitat for foxes and other wildlife, and is presented by the association as a more humane alternative to snaring, gassing or poisoning as a means of fox control.
This pursuit is practised under Irish law and the rules of its governing body, which sets welfare, conduct and membership standards for every affiliated member. Reports of malpractice are investigated and can result in suspension or expulsion.
For associations
