What is it?
Barn Hunt is a dog sport where you and your dog try and find a rat hidden in a barn. The rat is placed in a ventilated tube and hidden in an area where your dog must climb, go through tunnels and detect the hidden rat.
Trailing:
To trial and compete you must first go on either the BHA or the HP website and find an event that works for you. On the BHA website their event calendar has a list of all the events that are going on. Once you find one that you like you can click on it for more information. The premium should be able to answer any of your questions but always feel free to email the trail secretary with any questions.
Usually when you show up for you first trial there will be a morning briefing when everything is set up and ready to go. During the briefing they will show you where the blinds are, where you need to be for what class you are in. Where the board is for the rotation, and they will ask who is new. Many people at every trial will be new to the sport and they will tell you who can answer your questions if you have any. Generally, the people giving the briefing or helping set up are very knowledgeable and willing to help you.
Resources:
The Barn Hunt Association is the only AKC recognized organization that hosts barn hunt events.
Titles:
- RATI (Instinct; not recognized by the AKC)
- RATN (Novice)
- RATO (Open)
- RATS (Senior)
- RATM (Master)
Happy Ratters a urban version of barn hunt but it is not AKC recognized. It can still be a really fun way to get out and do things with your dog!
