ELKampMaster

HORSES - DO's:
1. If you are renting horses, then as soon as the driver unloads them, tighten up the cinch, lead them over to where the moles have churned up the ground, have someone hold on to the head and get on. If you have a bronc in your group then a) you may as well find out about it on soft dirt instead of rocks, and b) you can tell the driver to take that horse back and bring you a replacement.

2. Same as 1. above, but if you are going to pack elk on your rental horses, then while the driver is still there put the panniers on them and some bulk weight and a lashing rope and see if you are going to have a rodeo. Lead them back into the trees and arrange an opportunity for the pannier to rub against a tree - some horses will come unglued at that point. If they won't take a pannier and behave send them back with the driver for a replacement.

Obviously, this only works if you ordered your horses with some lead time, since replacements may not arrive until the next day.

HORSES DON'T's:
1. It's great for everyone to saddle their own horse, but if you have a hot head in the group with a short temper a loud voice and no tolerance for animal behavior, then keep him away from the horses at all costs. On the opening day you don't want him to throw a fit, shout, curse and swear and have the whole herd break loose and go running off into the trees! (seen it happen).

2. Horse feed, if you are renting horses, ask them to deliver the feed necessary to feed them during their time with you. The last thing you want to do is change their diet when you're working them hard and have them get the cholic. Make sure you water them plenty, two preferrably three times a day.

Horses can be a blessing or they can completely ruin an elk hunt. When you are renting them you are more at risk for the latter, the trick is to preempt as many problems as possible!
EKM

Good judgement comes from bad experience! Half of elk hunting is knowing what NOT to do!

Edited by - ELKampMaster on 12/07/2002 12:14:08